Whether you’ve got a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a toilet that simply won’t cooperate, unless you’re particularly handy, the job at hand is probably going to require the help of a professional plumber. If you’re a homeowner in need of plumbing repairs, then finding the right person for the job can certainly become challenging. After all, not all plumbers are created equal, with some charging higher prices than others for less timely and quality work. Walter Tulecki is the proud owner of WT Mechanical, a company that has been serving Central New Jersey’s plumbing, heating, and cooling needs for the past 15 years, and he understands how difficult it can be for the average homeowner to find a trustworthy plumber who can truly get the job done. He therefore suggests that people ask the following questions of their plumbers before choosing somebody to hire for the task at hand:
Are you licensed?
In order to ensure that the work will be done properly and effectively, it’s important to hire someone who is actually a licensed plumber. Many people tend to make the mistake of hiring a general handyman for plumbing-related needs since such individuals usually come at a cheaper price tag. However, somebody who isn’t an expert in plumbing is less likely to do as effective a job as an officially-licensed plumber.
Are you insured?
Many homeowners don’t realize how important it is to only use insured contractors for repair or improvement work within their homes. This notion applies to all contractors, plumbers included. If a plumber is not insured, then any damage that he causes to your home will become your problem and financial responsibility. Also, if a plumber gets injured on your property over the course of the job, then you might be liable for the costs associated with that injury if the plumber doesn’t have his own insurance. Before you choose a plumber, be sure that he’s properly insured, and find out what his insurance covers.
How long have you been in business?
One thing that you’ll want to ask your plumber is how long he’s been in the plumbing industry and how long he’s been serving the area. If a plumber has been around for many years, then chances are he knows what he’s doing and can back up his claims with local references.
Can I have a written estimate for the job?
Some contractors can be less honest than others when it comes to springing costs on unsuspecting homeowners. Therefore, by asking your plumber for a written estimate for the job, you can protect yourself from costs that might creep up out of nowhere. Remember, it is your plumber’s responsibility to accurately evaluate the time he thinks it will take to finish a job, and charge you accordingly. Failure to do so on the part of your plumber should be his problem, not yours. Therefore, be sure to get something in writing before agreeing to hire someone.
Do you picture any unforeseen issues with this job?
Home contractors, on a whole, are notorious for taking much longer than expected to complete the jobs that they are hired to do. In order to prepare yourself for the timing involved in having your plumbing work done, ask your plumber not only how long he expects the job to take, but what, if any, unforeseen issues might arise over the course of his work. That way, you’ll be better prepared for the worst and less aggravated in the event of a significant delay. And if your plumber insists that the job at hand is simple, then it gives you a better leg to stand on in the event that you become dissatisfied with the timeframe at hand.
Will you handle the cleanup?
Some plumbing jobs have the potential to leave quite the significant mess behind. Before you agree to a plumber’s terms, be sure to inquire about the cleanup aspect. Some plumbers might include a cleanup as part of their services; others might charge extra for it, or refuse to include it as part of the job at hand. In order to avoid an unpleasant surprise, ask your plumber what to expect in the way of leftover dust, dirt, and debris.
By asking these pivotal questions before hiring a plumber, you, as a homeowner, can do your part to ensure that you’ll be satisfied with the plumbing job during and after it’s done. Remember, your home represents the greatest financial investment you’re bound to make. So when it comes to finding the right person to work on its flaws, you’ll want to hire only the very best.
