What You Want and Don't Want in Plumbers

What You Want and Don't Want in Plumbers

There is no exact science in hiring plumbers. There are those who come to your house on time, do their job right with a cherry on top and leave you with a reasonable bill, a problem solved and a smile on your face. Unfortunately, there are also plumbers who show up late and turn in an effort that can be best described as getting the job done to get you off their backs. But in many cases, they don't get the job done after all and worse, tack on all sorts of hidden charges on your bill. So what are those things you should look for (or avoid) when searching for plumbers? Read this article and find out.

The individual that you select for the job at hand must be a certified plumber. He should have a license number you can refer to, as this would pretty much convince you of his credibility. The same would apply for a plumbing service, as they should also have some form of certification or license number available on request. If the individual or plumbing service they work for refuse to give this information out, then something's fishy. It would be safe to remove them from your shortlist and move on to other prospective plumbers.

You would also want to hire somebody that knows how to handle the type of repair or maintenance that you need to be done. We mention this because different plumbers offer different types of services, and while some specialize in certain areas, they may not be as conversant when it comes to other facets of plumbing work. Ask about their specialization and if they don't appear to have many, or are seemingly trying too hard to impress you by fluffing up their credentials and touting phantom specializations, then you might as well say "next" and strike them off the list.

Thirdly, you want somebody who knows what the word "transparency" means, or at least how to put it into practice. Plumbers may offer hourly or daily rates and you need to find out what they are. Understand how these rates work and be sure you have asked about extra charges - are there any, and if there are, when do they apply? A plumber who seems to be evasive when asked the latter question would, based on our experience, be the exact kind of person who would be more than happy to garnish your bill with all sorts of additional, "hidden" costs.

The last item in this list may be the shortest, but it is certainly the most important. You want somebody who offers a warranty. Not just any warranty, though. Plumbers who offer an in-depth, complete warranty are much preferable over those who offer a standard, run-of-the-mill warranty, and definitely over those who don't. When problems arise following repairs or maintenance, you want plumbers who will honor the terms of their warranty, not those who will act as if you never existed.




By Ricardo Colindres 
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6826896

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Guide to Employing Plumbers

When you are employing the services of a professional plumber for the first time, there are several factors that should be taken into full consideration. After all, you want to make the necessary preparations before inviting a total stranger into your household, not to mention that he or she will charge you with a hefty hourly expense.

It is always handy to have a few resources readily available at your fingertip. Look in the yellow pages or the Internet for plumbing services in your local area. There are many companies that have 24/7 plumbing services available. However, homeowners must consider a few factors before just hiring any Joe Schmo to enter their house and repair their plumbing fixtures:

1. Gather References

The best type of references are gathered through word-of-mouth. Talk to your neighbours or coworkers about their home renovation projects. They might give you some decent recommendations. However, make sure you clarify the specialty of those plumbers, for there are those that specialize in emergency repairs, while others specialize in remodeling and construction. Another thing to consider is the reputation of the plumbing services. Do you trust their services? After all, you are letting a complete stranger into your house, so you may want to take references from the company first before inviting just anybody to your doorstep.

2. Check License

Most plumbers are licensed as required by state law. While this license proves that they are working under a legal contract, keep in mind that not all licensed plumbers are good plumbers. There are other factors that you should take into account. You should also ask if the plumbing company has any special uniform or dress code. Not only does this prevent imposters, but you can also determine the accountability in case the plumbers do an exceptionally bad (or good - just to be optimistic) repair job.

3. Identify Problem

Set up a conclusive plan before contacting a plumber. You should have a general idea of what needs to be fixed, as well as what the desired outcome will turn out to be. The more clarity your instructions have, the more efficient your plumber will work.

4. Determine Expenses

Always check what the hourly rates are, including the on-site fee. Clarify all miscellaneous expenses so that you aren't billed with an unpleasant surprise.

5. Remain on Job Site

Stay within calling distance so you can prompt questions or answers whenever needed. Since you are keeping a close eye of the plumber's work, the end result will most likely prove to be more efficient and polished.

Once you locate a plumbing company that meets your expectations, make sure you stay in contact with them! It never hurts to build connections. Besides, the plumbers would love to expand their business through word-of-mouth, so it is a win-win situation for both parties. They get the customers, and you get a satisfactory repair job!

Now that you know what to consider in plumbing services, you will know what to do when a household emergency arises. However, it is always best to plan early. You do not want to wait for the last possible moment to find the right plumbing services for you. Search now so that you can feel prepared later on.



By Adriana A Noton
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4166847

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