The best time to find a plumber is BEFORE we actually NEED one, but let’s face it, our home plumbing is an out-of-sight, out-of-mind type thing. We won’t fix it until it’s broken, yet this often leaves us in an all-too-sticky situation.
We need a plumber now, and we need them to fix it fast! “Just get here,” no questions asked. The problem is the difference between what can be a simple $65 to $100 job and what could end up being a $5,000 to $10,000 clean up.
Save yourself from the headaches, heartaches and pocketbook aches of having the wrong person do the job. Before you hire a plumber, ask them these ten simple questions and you’ll be set!
1. Are you licensed and qualified to work in [your state name here]?
All plumbers are required by law to be licensed in their state of work. You can check a plumbers license by going online (in most states) to your State Contractor License Board website and searching by the company’s name or license number.
2. Are you insured and do you carry Workman’s Comp?
A plumber should carry adequate liability insurance to cover any job site damages as well as Workman’s Compensation to cover any job related injuries or health risks. This information can also be found on most State Contractors License Board websites. If not, you can always request a certificate of liability and Workman’s Comp.
3. Are you bonded?
Bonds are recommended for any work done over $500. It is set in place to protect you if the terms of the contract are not met by your plumber. You want to make sure that their bond will cover the entire cost of completing (or re-doing) any of the specified work. You can also find this information on most State Contractors License Board websites as well.
