Finding a plumber can be hard. Finding a good plumber, even harder. It’s a trade that’s in demand for good reason. Given the amount of work we put our pipes through day in day out, problems always pop up. Here we’ll take a look at how to find the right plumber who meets your needs efficiently and professionally.
First Things First. Is It an Emergency?
Are you dealing with an emergency, like a burst pipe or flooding, or is it a routine repair, like replacing a fixture or clearing a clogged drain? If you’re facing an emergency you don’t have the time to look around much, you just need to get someone to your place fast.
You’ll have to pay an additional fee for an emergency call. But it’s worth it. Leaving a problem like a burst pipe can lead to structural damage to your house and nasty problems with mould. If you’re unsure what constitutes an emergency, refer to this list.
Emergency vs Non-Emergency Plumbing Issues
| Emergency Plumbing Issues | Non-Emergency Plumbing Issues |
|---|---|
| Burst Pipes | Slow Drainage |
| Sewage Backup | Dripping Faucets |
| Severe Water Leaks | Running Toilets |
| No Access to Water | Minor Leaks |
| Overflowing Toilets | Low Water Pressure |
| Gas Line Leaks | Malfunctioning Garbage Disposal |
| Frozen Pipes | |
| Hot Water Heater Issues |
Searching for the Right Plumber
Get the Green Building Project Checklist
Use this handy checklist on your next project to keep track of all the ways you can make your home more energy-efficient and sustainable.
Know What You Need
Knowing the scope of the work you need done will help you focus your search and find a plumber with the appropriate expertise. Is the job something simple like a clogged drain. Then it doesn’t matter how good the plumber is since it’s an easy fix. You might even just want to hire a handyman for that. They cost less and will probably get the job done right. On the other hand, if the job is something extensive like replacing your water heater, get a licensed professional to do it.
Seek Recommendations
Word of mouth is really the best way to find a dependable plumber. So ask around for recommendations. If you don’t know anyone who knows a plumber they’d recommend, search online. Local community groups, whether in-person or online through platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor, can be an excellent source of referrals.
Search Online Reviews and Ratings
These days, people rely heavily on internet reviews when deciding which services to use. Websites such as Google Reviews, Yelp and HomeStars are popular in Canada for customer feedback on local businesses like plumbers.
Look for professionals with high ratings and positive reviews, but also pay attention to how they handle negative feedback. A plumber who takes the time to listen to their customers’ concerns and provides helpful answers shows that they care about their happiness.
Verify Credentials and Licenses
To be successful as a plumber, you need to get the proper training and certification. In Canada, plumbers typically complete an apprenticeship program and obtain certification through their provincial or territorial regulatory body.
For example, in Ontario, plumbers must be licensed by Skilled Trades Ontario, while in Alberta, they need certification through the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training. If in doubt, and it’s an important job, ask to see proof of licensing to ensure the plumber is qualified to perform the job safely and competently.
Additionally, check if the plumber is insured. If anything were to happen to you or the plumber while they were working, liability insurance would cover it. Working with an insured professional gives you peace of mind and safeguards against unforeseen expenses.
Assess Experience and Specializations
Experience matters in plumbing, as seasoned professionals are more likely to identify and resolve issues quickly and effectively. Ask how many years they’ve been in the industry and whether they have experience handling problems similar to yours.
Some plumbers specialize in specific areas, such as residential or commercial plumbing, or focus on niche services like water heater installations or pipe repairs. Hiring a plumber with relevant expertise ensures the job is done efficiently and to a high standard.
Evaluate Customer Service
One way to tell if a plumber is reliable and professional is by their customer service. Pay attention to how promptly they respond to your inquiries, whether they provide clear and detailed answers and if they treat you with respect and courtesy.
A plumber who values good communication is more likely to keep you informed throughout the process and address any concerns you may have.
Check for Warranties and Guarantees
A reliable plumber will guarantee their work by providing labour and parts warranties. With a warranty, you can rest assured that the plumber will fix any issues that arise after the job is done, without charging you any more.
Be sure to ask about the terms of their warranty and get them in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
Making a Decision
Compare Quotes
While price is a consideration, it shouldn’t be your only one when choosing a plumber. Get a sense of the going rate for the plumbing work you want by requesting estimates from three separate plumbers.
If one estimate is much lower than the others, you should be suspicious since it could mean you’ll get low-quality work. A detailed, written estimate should include the cost of parts, labour and any additional fees, ensuring transparency and avoiding surprises later.
When comparing quotes, consider the value offered. A slightly higher price may be justified by better service quality, faster completion or a more extensive warranty.
Hire Someone Close
Finding a plumber who lives nearby can reduce travel time and costs, making their services more accessible and affordable. As well, plumbing emergencies can happen at any time so having a go-to plumber who is close by means they can get to you faster.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
While it’s tempting to hire the cheapest plumber available, doing so can lead to substandard work and higher costs in the long run. Avoid hiring unlicensed or uninsured plumbers for anything important, as this could result in safety hazards and legal complications.
Additionally, don’t rush your decision unless it’s an emergency; taking the time to vet your options ensures you choose the right professional for the job.
Build a Long-Term Relationship
Once you’ve found a plumber who meets your expectations, consider establishing a long-term relationship with them. Having a trusted plumber on call saves time and stress when future issues arise.
A good relationship can also lead to benefits like priority scheduling, discounts and personalized service.
If you’re having a hard time finding a good plumber, keep trying. Whether you’re dealing with an emergency or planning a renovation, having a reliable plumber is worth it. So take the time to search around for plumbers and compare your options – you’ll get better work that way and you’ll also have peace of mind, knowing your home is in capable hands.
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