When you are in the midst of a plumbing emergency, you cannot afford to lose precious time trying to research plumbers. Even if you have never needed a plumber before, it is a good idea to have a few names in mind when something does go wrong.
Whether you are looking for a good plumber for future reference or you’re currently experiencing a plumbing emergency and need to find reliable help quickly, here is a quick guide to what you should look for that can help make your selection a lot easier.
Proper Certification And Accreditation
The top factor you need to consider when selecting a plumber is their certifications and accreditations as this will determine the type of work they are capable of carrying out.
A master plumber has the experience and knowledge to take on more complex plumbing tasks than a journeyman, for example. If any heating or gas work will be involved, you will want to ensure that the plumbers you have in mind have the proper licensing to work with gas.
On a broader level, you must ensure that the plumber you hire is licensed, even if the task is simple and straightforward. A licensed plumber will ensure that their work complies with building codes and that your systems and appliances will be safe. The Virginia Board for Contractors requires that plumbers are certified to carry out services within the state.
Moreover, should something go wrong while the plumbing work is being carried out, your claim could be denied by your insurance company if a professional did not install the plumbing equipment.
Regular and Emergency Availability
When choosing a plumber, it is essential that you ask about their availability. Seek plumbers that offer 24-hour emergency services as pipes have a way of bursting and boilers have a way of breaking down at the most inconvenient hours.
Finding out about your plumber’s response time should be one of the main factors you weigh when you are choosing a plumber, even if your current issue is not a pressing one.
Rate & Fee Transparency
Cost is a major factor when selecting a plumber. Although most plumbers cannot commit to a specific price before they arrive at your home and see the extent of the work in question, they should be able to give you a range before arrival.
Once your plumber has given you a price, be sure to get a written quote. It is also important to find out if they charge call-out fees or higher rates for emergencies so you can budget accordingly.
A Good Reputation
It pays to carry out a bit of research before deciding on a plumber. Take a look at their online reviews and stick to those who have more positive reviews than negative ones.
All types of businesses have a few negative reviews, and plumbers are no exception. However, as long as the reviews are positive overall, it is likely that you are dealing with trustworthy plumber.
Plenty of Experience
Although new plumbers are certainly capable of carrying out high-quality work, many people prefer the peace of mind that comes from trusting the job to professionals with lots of experience.
Find out how long the plumbers you are considering have been in operation and ask around to see if anyone you know has used their services in the past and what their experience was like.
Proper Insurance
It is always a good idea to make sure that the plumber you hire is insured. If you have any doubts, ask to see a copy of their insurance policy and call the insurer to ensure that it is current. A reputable plumber will provide insurance coverage for workers that covers repairs and accidents related to injuries and breakages on the job.
The Services They Offer
Although you might be most concerned with fixing a particular issue right now, it is a good idea to think long term and seek to establish a relationship with a reputable plumber who offers comprehensive services.
Some of the services you should look for include drain cleaning services; gas, water and sewer line repair and replacement; water heater services; residential water treatment; backflow testing services and burst pipe repair.
Reach Out To The Residential Plumbing Experts
If you are looking for a reputable residential plumber in the Northern Virginia area, get in touch with Baumbach Plumbing & Remodeling LLC. We are a licensed, bonded and insured agency that has been in business since 1928.
We possess the experience necessary to carry out all manner of plumbing work safely and effectively. Offering everything from emergency gas line repair to routine drain cleaning, our professionals can handle all of your plumbing and bathroom remodeling needs.
