How to Hire a Plumber

Finding a plumber is not as simple as, plop open the Yellow Pages thumb over to P and randomly select a number to call. There are some specific things you should know and ask to make sure that the plumber you select is the right one for you and your project. The following should hopefully help you select the best plumber for your job.

Selecting Your Plumber

The best thing to start out with is references. Mention to your friends and family that you are looking for a plumber and see if they have had any good relationships with any specific person or company from the past. Another good source of referrals includes contractors, real estate agents and your local plumbing supply store. The local chamber of commerce may also keep a list of good plumbers, so you may want to contact them as well.

A major factor when selecting a plumber is, there are usually 2 different types of plumbers - those who do repair work and those who specialize in new construction and remodeling projects. Repair plumbers should be called in for such items as clogged sinks, leaky faucets or emergency situations. The second type of plumber works on larger projects like replacing a full plumbing system throughout the home or plumbing a new addition. AnyTyme Plumbing in San Diego handles both Repair work and New Construction / Remodeling.

Guaranteed Services

Does the plumber guarantee the work? This is an important point if there are any problems that need fixing after initial installation. If they don't guarantee their work then you probably shouldn't hire them.

Things to Look For in a Qualified Plumber

There are a number of qualifications which can set a professional plumber apart.

• Better Business Bureau - Contact your local Better Business Bureau to ascertain if any complaints have been filed against your potential candidate. AnyTyme Plumbing is listed in the San Diego BBB Accredited Business Program.

• Bonded & Insurance - Be sure that the prospective plumber you are considering has both workers’ compensation and liability insurance to be fully insured. If you have any doubts, ask them for a copy of their policy they should be able to furnish a copy.

• State License or Certification - Many states require a license or state certification for plumbers working in that state. Call to verify that the license is current and check if there are any active complaints against the license.

What Questions to Ask:

1. When obtaining a quote, one of the most important questions to ask your plumber is the type of materials to be used. Remember, a plumbing part defect has the potential to cause a lot of water damage to your home and the appropriate materials will prevent this.

2. Ask for quality materials, often with major brand names that offer manufacturers’ warranties to the consumer. You may pay more for these parts, but you will be glad you did as they will usually prevent early decay or replacement.

3. Many home or business-owners calling in a plumber to replace a leaking copper pipe don’t know that there are alternative materials to the ones used during construction of their property. Why would you want a plumber make a repair with the same material that has already failed? Ask your potential plumbing candidates whether they use any other alternative repiping systems.

4. Ask each plumber how long he or she has been in business and if you have not been personally referred, ask to speak to several people who can vouch for the quality of their work and whether they completed the work on time and within budget.

5. Be sure to ask the plumbing professional whether they will be responsible for obtaining all necessary permits. If not, then move on. That should not be your responsibility.

6. Make sure to ask your prospective candidate what steps he or she will take to prevent injuries and property damage. Most plumbers will do there best to prevent damage and injuries.

7. You don’t want to be cleaning up after a plumber for hours after they’ve left your home. Ask the plumber how he or she intends to leave the work area once the job is completed. Also, ask about disruption during the project. Having them start the project and not knowing how long your hot water will be out is not a good thing.

8. Compare prices, but remember the cheapest quote isn’t necessarily the best plumber for the job. An experienced, qualified plumber may charge more for the work, but could save you money in the end by doing the job right and using the best materials.

If you have any questions or wish to inquire further about hiring a plumbing in your local San Diego area, feel free to call us anytime at (800) 656-3569.