Top 5 things to look for when choosing a plumber
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Plumbers & Gasfitters
If you require plumbing work on your home or business it is important to hire a licenced plumber. The following article outlines the top 5 things you should consider when selecting a plumber for your job.
Experience and qualifications
Plumbing is a skilled trade and engaging the services of a licenced plumber will save you time and money. All tradespeople must display their licence number on ads for their services and should also carry an ID card as proof of their accreditation. Make sure any ads that you respond to or quotes received include the plumber’s licence number.
Plumbing quotes
When looking to engage a plumber for jobs over $1,000, it is wise to get a number of quotes. Quotes should be broken down to show labour and material costs and clearly state any additional fees, such as call out-charges. Ask what the plumber’s hourly rates are, just in case you require additional work done that falls outside of the original quoted price. The plumbing quote should clearly state how long the quoted price is valid for. Price is only one of the factors you should consider when looking for a plumber, so don’t automatically think that the cheapest quote is the one you should accept.
Plumbing experience
Many plumbing jobs are routine and most plumbers are well experienced to fix common problems. Others are more complex and may require a plumber who specialises in a particular area. This may mean they have specials skills or experience for a type of work, or have access to specific tools and equipment to diagnose, install or repair. Look for a plumber who advertises that they carry out the plumbing work you require and talk with them about their experience and recommendations.
Insurance and Warranty
Ask your plumber if they are insured for their work. It is important that a plumber has insurance in case there is an unforseen issue with work completed. Hiring an insured plumber will give you peace of mind and safeguard you if something goes wrong. Some plumbing jobs will also come with a warranty or guarantee, usually this is on new installations and not on repair and maintenance of existing plumbing. Make sure you clearly understand if the work carried out by the plumber has any warranty or guarantee.
Availability
One of the biggest factors in selecting a plumbing service will be the availability of the plumber. Plumbers can get very busy and jobs are scheduled based on urgency and priority. Some plumbing jobs cannot wait due to safety and hygiene reasons. The plumber you end up choosing may be based on their availability. Before requesting a quote it can be useful to find out how busy they are as some plumbers are already booked weeks in advance.
Remember, your choice of plumber should not always be based on the cheapest quote. Contact your local plumbing services and discuss your needs and timeframes and find the right plumber for your job.
Sue Blatchford
03 October 2011
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