If your drains are clogged, your water heater is acting up, or your garbage disposal is backed up, there is no time to waste over finding the perfect plumber. However, hurriedly deciding on a company from among the available plumbers in Oakland can cause more damage than benefits.
Most homeowners need a plumber who provides trustworthy advice and long-term results. Although there is no way you can prevent plumbing problems, if you hire a reputable plumbing contractor, you can avoid the need to fix the same problem repeatedly.
While cost is an essential factor to consider in decision-making, don’t make it the deciding factor. Some plumbing companies quote the lowest possible price over the phone to trap the customer but then bill additional charges after reaching your home and properly inspecting the problem.
So, what is it that you can do to succeed at your attempts of searching for reputable plumbing contractors near me? Here are six tips to help you make an informed decision.
Read also: Reasons Why You Need a Professional Plumbing Contractor
How Do I Find a Reputable Plumber
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Ensure the plumber is insured and licensed.
The most vital factor in finding a reputable plumber is ensuring they are licensed and insured. During a catastrophe, the company must have insurance.
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Inquire about the experience.
Experience matters in most services. You want to work with professionals who have varied experience in performing repairs at home. A plumbing company with many years of experience is likely to have a knowledgable and skilled team of plumbers and a positive reputation. Moreover, they are expected to remain committed and not disappear on you halfway through your repair.
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Read reviews and check references.
The internet forces businesses to be transparent about their services. While the plumbing company’s website or advertisement may appear promising, don’t rely on it alone. Perform a Google search to read past customer experiences. You can also check for reviews on Angie’s List and the Better Business Bureau.
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Ask for written estimates.
A reputable plumber will provide an estimate after adequately assessing the problem in your home. After evaluating the problem, ask the plumbing contractor for a written estimate with all labor and part costs mentioned.
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Compare with the competition.
You may not have sufficient knowledge about plumbing, but you do know how to find a company that offers the best services in the industry. Check if the company has received many industry awards or recognitions. Also, check the scope of services offered. Some plumbing companies provide plumbing repair services only, while others offer a gamut of services, including Oakland drain cleaning and water heater installation. A good indicator of the company’s values is its participation in the community and its proactiveness in sharing knowledge online.
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Get personal referrals.
Talk to your friends, colleagues, family members, and neighbors to know if they have a go-to plumber or a recent positive experience with a local plumbing company. Many times, asking someone for a referral helps in finding a hidden gem.
Conclusion
Finding a good plumber isn’t easy. The ones offering professional and efficient services at affordable prices are in high demand because they are committed to their work and customers. Unfortunately, some contractors want to cheat you. Follow the tips mentioned above to protect yourself from disappointment.
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