If you live in Howell, MI and need the help of a plumbing service, you must know your options. Ask these questions before hiring a plumber in Howell.
In the span of 10 years, 68,000 new plumbers will emerge in the industry. That’s a 14% increase between 2018 and 2028.
While there are plenty of plumbers available, not every plumber has the same experience and expertise. Learning how to find the best plumber in your area can make all the difference.
Here are seven questions to ask before hiring a plumber in Howell, MI. By asking these questions, you’ll have peace of mind about your decision. You can make sure the plumber you choose is equipped to help.
Start your search by asking these seven questions today!
1. Are You Certified?
Before hiring a plumber, make sure they’re knowledgeable. A certified plumber will have the knowledge and training necessary to handle your plumbing needs.
During your search, ask if the plumber is aware of the local codes and regulations they’re required to meet. Choosing a certified plumber will ensure they know how to diagnose the issue before they start making repairs. Otherwise, they might start to do more harm than good.
A certified plumber will also know how to use the proper tools to safely and correctly complete different plumbing services.
Make sure the plumber’s certification is up-to-date. Tradesmen need to complete annual recertification. This ensures they’re aware of the latest building codes and practices.
Ask the plumber you interview if they’ve completed government testing and received their county, regional, or state certification.
If the plumber you’re speaking with isn’t licensed, they might fail to pull the permits they need to complete the job. They could end up working on your home project without proper licensing, which could leave you susceptible to fines.
Instead, make sure they’re certified before they even arrive at your home.
2. Are You Insured?
What happens if an accident occurs while a plumber is working on your home? What if they make a mistake?
Look for a plumber who has the proper insurance documents. Ask if they have builder’s risk, bonds, and worker’s compensation insurance when you interview them. If the plumber has the proper insurance, they’re qualified to take on risks during a job.
If a mistake or accident occurs, they won’t have to worry about defaulting. At the same time, you won’t have to worry about unexpected, out-of-pocket costs.
Choosing an insured plumber will give you peace of mind before they start working on your home.
3. What Are Your Credentials?
Before hiring a plumber, you want to make sure they have the proper credentials and experience.
Choosing a plumber with the proper credentials can ensure they have the workmanship you need. It can also help you learn about the quality of their different plumbing services.
A plumber that has proper credentials is more likely to remain up-to-date about:
- Professional practices
- Techniques
- Building practices
To learn more about a plumber’s abilities, ask for references and reviews. Speaking with their previous clients can help you learn about their workmanship. Otherwise, you’re left to take the plumber at their word.
Ask if you can speak with three to five different references. As you speak with these references, ask about their experience.
Did the plumber communicate and ensure the client understood the problem? Were they clear and concise? Were there any issues while they worked on the plumbing project?
If so, how were the problems resolved?
You can also check online for reviews by visiting the company’s Better Business Bureau listing. Make sure the plumber doesn’t have any complaints filed against them during your search.
4. How Long Have You Been in Business?
When talking to plumbers in Howell, MI, ask how long each one has been in business. How long have they worked as a plumber? How long were they an apprentice?
Did they switch careers at one point?
Look for a plumber who has an extensive work history in Howell. A plumber with a long-standing professional reputation in the industry has earned respect from locals. They’ve also remained competitive among other companies in the industry.
A contractor with a long-standing professional reputation has more to lose. They’re more likely to do a good job on your project to maintain that reputation.
When talking to plumbers in the area, ask about their specialties, too. For example, are you working on a remodeling project? You might want to look for a plumber that has experience with remodeling, then.
Don’t forget to learn more about the contractors they hire, too.
Do their contractors have the proper license and insurance documentation? Who will work on your home? Make sure to research the subcontractor’s experience and reference before hiring a plumber.
5. Do You Offer Emergency Services?
Imagine your family sitting down for Thanksgiving dinner when a pipe suddenly bursts. You’re going to need a plumber right away.
During your search, look for a plumber that offers 24-hour emergency services. You never know when an emergency might arise. Choosing someone who offers emergency services can give you peace of mind.
Otherwise, ask the plumber what you can do to avoid future problems. Are there any preventative measures you can take?
A quality plumber won’t wait for you to call over and over again to fix small problems over the span of weeks. Instead, they’ll want you to receive the best service the first time they visit.
6. What Are Your Fees?
When talking to plumbers in Howell, make sure to ask about their fees. You’ll want to find someone who fits your budget. Otherwise, you might end up surprised when the bill arrives.
Most plumbers in the US make about $25 an hour. Make sure to ask for an estimate from different plumbers in the area. Ask which services are covered for that estimate, too.
7. Do You Have a Warranty?
During your search, ask if the plumber offers a guarantee or warranty for their services. Will they return to fix the issue if the problem wasn’t remedied the first time?
Some plumbers offer a 30-day guarantee.
Finding Plumbers in Howell, MI: 7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Plumber
Ready to find a professional? Make sure to ask these questions before hiring a plumber in Howell, MI. With these tips, you can find a professional capable of taking on your project.
Otherwise, you might end up working with someone who lacks the experience and expertise you need.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to request an appointment!