The home, hiring a professional plumber is crucial to ensure the job is done right. However, if you don’t take the time to find the right plumber, you could end up with mistakes that lead to problems down the road. The biggest mistake is not thoroughly researching potential plumbers before hiring one. Don’t just go with the first plumber you find or the lowest rate. Take the time to research a few plumbers in your area and compare factors like experience, licensing, reputation, and rates. Look for online reviews and talk to people you knows who have done renovations recently.
Neglecting to check licensing
Always verify that any Chiswick plumbing you consider hiring has current, valid licensing. Most states require plumbers to be licensed, and this the training and expertise for the job a plumber’s word for it—check with your state licensing board to validate active licenses. Hiring unlicensed plumbers puts your renovation at risk or even leads to fines.
Checking references
Failing to get references is another common mistake. Any reputable plumber should be able to provide references from recent jobs. Follow up with the references to get reviews of the plumber’s work, timeliness, communication style, and more. This gives your insight into what it’s like to work with that plumber before you hire them.
Neglecting to get estimates
It’s tempting to go with the first bid you get from a plumber, but getting multiple estimates is key. Prices vary greatly, and an estimate helps you budget for the project. A quality plumber will offer a detailed estimate after evaluating your specific renovation plans. Get estimates from at least three different plumbers to compare.
Checking for proper insurance
Plumbing projects inherently involve water, and water damage is always a risk. That’s why it’s crucial to hire a plumber who carries both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. These policies protect your home and assets if any mishaps occur. Ask to see proof of current insurance before hiring a plumber.
Skipping a written contract
Another common mistake is not using a written contract. Verbal agreements often lead to misunderstandings down the road. Protect yourself by putting the terms in writing. The contract should include the scope of work, timeline, costs, and other important details. This sets clear expectations for both you and the plumber.
Neglecting to ask about warranties
Many professional plumbers offer warranties on parts and labour, but you have to ask. Don’t miss out on a warranty that protects you from certain costs if issues arise with the plumbing work after the renovation. Find out if the plumber offers any warranties and get all details in writing.
Checking timeframes
Renovation projects often operate on tight timelines, so make sure to discuss timeframes upfront. Find out how far in advance the plumber starts and get an estimate of how long the full plumbing portion will take. Factor in potential delays and ask if the plumber works within your project schedule. Get a timeline in writing to avoid conflicts later on.
