We all need a plumber from time to time, whether you’re having problems with a leaky tap or you’re installing a new bathroom. Rather than rushing to Facebook and asking friends for recommendations, take the following into consideration before choosing the right plumber…
Online reputation
One of the best ways to see whether a plumber is right for you is to Google them, and see what you can find. Most reputable plumbers and companies will have a Google My Business listing where they can collect reviews from their customers, and Facebook is another good place to look. If the majority of reviews are positive, you can hire the plumber you’ve found with confidence. If they have mixed reviews, see where they fall down and whether it would affect you. And remember: no business is perfect, so don’t hold out for a five-star company.
Your budget
Next up, you need to decide your budget for your project. Whatever you need help with, it’s wise to do some research online and ask around before you speak to a professional. That way, you’ll have an idea in your head of how much the job will cost, and if their estimate is wildly off, you can challenge them or haggle for a discount. It’s easy to be led stray here.
Pricing and transparency
Some plumbing companies disclose their pricing on their website, especially for everyday services like boiler services and installing a new tap. Check out their website and see exactly how much they charge and feel free to call them and ask for a quote: you don’t have to book them there and then. Ideally, you should work with a company or individual that’s totally transparent: you don’t want to hire them without knowing exactly what the project will cost.
Their payment terms
Something else that you should consider is their payment terms. Some plumbers expect you to pay for their services up-front, whereas others demand payment immediately upon completion of the job. Others use a tradesmen payments service like PongoPay, allowing you to pay up-front but only give the tradesperson access to your funds once you’re totally satisfied with the job, offering added peace of mind. Ask about this before getting started.
Previous experience and projects
Finally, make sure you ask about their previous experience and projects. You should be able to find much of this information online, as companies have case studies, testimonials, and list their skills, qualifications, and years of trade. You’re more likely to be satisfied if you choose a time-served company rather than someone just starting out, and you’ll also want to make sure that they’re fully-insured, and that they’ll come back to your property if something goes wrong after they’ve conducted their work. Ask for an emergency number to be sure.
Choosing the right plumber for your home or business can be tough, but the tips we’ve offered above should help. Let us know what you think and check back soon for more news.
