Chances are you’ve read horror stories about cowboy plumbers ripping people off, charging a fortune for a 5-minute or even bodged job. However, your experience with plumbers needn’t be like that if you follow a few simple steps first.
Whether you need a plumber to take a look at your taps as they might be leaking, heated towel rails or bathroom sinks, by asking a few questions initially you should be able to secure a decent plumber. Finding someone you can trust to complete the job to a good standard and without breaking the bank makes all the difference. Of course, it isn’t just your bathroom that needs a good plumbing and heating professional but other areas of your home so make sure you find the person that’s right for you.
In an ideal world, a friend or family member will recommend someone to you but this isn’t always the case, and you should check a few things first before agreeing to go ahead with the work – and the same is true, whether you need an emergency plumber or otherwise.
Emergency plumber
When time is of the essence, you can’t afford to delay finding a plumber for very long. But make sure you cover the basics including hourly rates, call-out fee, equipment charges, and try to call at least 3 in your area so you can compare and go with the best offer. Discuss your problem in detail to try to ensure your quote is fairly accurate, and check in advance that the plumber has the relevant qualifications and is a member of a trade body like the Association of Plumbers and Heating Contractors (APHC).
Non-emergency plumber
When you have the time, you could make a start with your search by visiting the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering website as this has a list of registered plumbers in your area, and the option to search by postcode. When you call around be sure to ask questions along the following lines:
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they have any premises?
- Can you see references?
- What insurance do they have?
- Are they a member of a trade body such as APHC?
- How much do they charge per hour/project?
- Can you view previous works?
If you have the time, it might be worth trialling a plumber too, starting with a small task like fixing a leaking tap and seeing how that goes before contracting the individual for bigger projects.