Choosing a Plumber: 10 Questions to Ask Your Next Mifflinburg Plumber
When you have a plumbing need or a plumbing emergency in Mifflinburg, it’s tempting to call the first plumber that you find in the Yellow Pages or on Google. But do yourself a favor and ask some important questions first. Finding the right professional will ensure that you get the job done correctly the first time.
First and foremost – what Mifflinburg plumbing services do you need – and when? Is this an immediate need or do you have the ability to get on a waiting list?
Mifflinburg Plumbing Services
There are five notorious plumbing issues that often require professional plumbing services.
- Frozen Pipes – Frozen pipes not only restrict water flow in your home, they also present the risk of bursting and causing a great deal of damage.
- Burst Pipes – If left unnoticed, frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes and a huge mess.
- Leaky Fixtures – Not all leaks are found by seeing dripping water from faucets. Wall or cabinet stains can signify leaks in the pipes as well.
- Blocked Drains – Broken pipes, incorrect pipe installation or debris can all cause blocked drains in your system.
- Gas Leaks – Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, fires or explosions.
Important Questions to Ask any Plumber
Once you’ve determined what Mifflinburg plumbing services you need, then it’s time to ask the following questions of the prospective plumber.
First and foremost, do you have a license?
This is the most important question to ask a potential plumber in Mifflinburg. If they don’t have a license, call another plumber. While a license doesn’t guarantee perfection, it’s a sign that they have passed government testing and are aware of current and ongoing changes to building codes.
Can you provide proof of insurance?
It is essential that your plumber carry liability insurance. If something happens to your property or your neighbors’ property when they are at your home correcting a problem, you could be held finally responsible.
How are your prices calculated?
If hourly charges or flat-rate pricing are the standard operating practice, it’s best to know that up front. This will also help you to compare apples-to-apples if you’re gathering more than one estimate for a larger job. Most plumbing companies charge an additional fee if you call them late at night or on weekends or holidays (i.e. emergencies). Find out now what that emergency charge may be.
Are estimates written?
Always ask for an estimate in writing and make sure that labor and parts are itemized. If you think something should be included and it’s not, now is the time to voice your concern. Don’t make assumptions with estimates. Can you give me a list of residential or business references? The references that you ask for should mimic the size of your project and the type of client that you are (residential or business customer). If you’re a business owner hiring a plumber for a large job, make sure that you ask for business references. Likewise, if you’re a residential customer, ask for names and phone number of other families; business references won’t be as applicable to your situation. It is also a good idea to do a quick online search, including the Better Business Bureau and social media sites like Google, Yelp, and Angie’s List.
Do you offer guarantees on your plumbing services?
While there will be a limit on the length of the guarantee, all reputable plumbers will offer some kind of warrantee on the parts installed and the quality of their workmanship. If they don’t, move on to another plumber.
When you have a plumbing need or a plumbing emergency in Mifflinburg, don’t be tempted into hiring the first plumber you learn about. Do yourself a favor and ask these important questions first. You’ll be grateful that you did.
