In a previous article I pointed out some of the most common mistakes made when hiring a plumber. But how do you really know if you’ve found a great plumber? Here are a few more things to consider to help you in the decision making process.

EMERGENCY SERVICE: The last thing you want to hear when that emergency happens is an answering machine. Top rated plumbers make sure a live person answers their phones at all times.Whether an answering service or an in house customer service rep., having a human being on the line in times of an emergency is mandatory. Bear in mind that even a great plumber may not be able to drop what he’s doing to get to you. But by returning your call in a timely manner and giving you periodic updates as to his E.T.A., the stress factor can be greatly reduced. A two to four hour window is not unreasonable.

LICENSING: Any plumber your considering should be licensed by the state in which he or she practices and hold mandatory workers compensation and liability insurances. If you’re in New York City where I’m located, you can go here to check the status of the plumber your considering hiring. Check if your plumbers license is current – click here. Now just because someone is licensed, it’s no guarantee that they’re a great plumber. Again this is where you should ask questions such as how long have you been in business?, as well as at least three references with contact phone numbers and or e-mail address’s so you can perform your due diligence. Just because someone has a drivers license, that doesn’t necessarily make them a good driver.

PRICING: As far as I’m concerned, a Flat Rate / Upfront Pricing system is the only way to go. You’ll know exactly what the cost will be before the job begins. You should expect your plumber to offer several options that fits different budgets. To avoid any miscommunication you should always ask what scenario would cause the quoted Flat Rate Price to change and how the additional charges if any are handled. In general most plumbing projects are not cheap, so constant communication between you and your plumber are key!

CUSTOMER SERVICE: A good plumber will make a follow up phone call the same day he performs his service. In addition a follow up thank you card a few days later thanking you for your business tells me they’re grateful to have your business. Most great plumbers will provided you with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and do whatever it takes to win your business. That should include priority service for V.I.P. clients and iron clad money back guarantees.

PERFORMANCE: A great plumber is all about providing health and safety for his clients and strive to keep them safe from leaks, fumes and maintaining a safe job-site free of any potential hazards. Performance should also include good communication by explaining what he’s doing and keeping you informed of any changes or problems that can surface through the scope of his work. Neatness counts too, work areas should be kept clean and free of tools and debris, in addition protective floor covering and shoe covers are key in protecting those hardwood and carpeted floors.

When you think you’ve found your dream plumber, be flexible! He’s busy and unless you have a true emergency, try to work with him and not pressure him. That makes you a great customer and one that a great plumber will go out of his way to satisfy!

HERE’S MY QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE TO A GREAT PLUMBER:

1. Holds a current and up to date plumbing license as well as a current and up to date Home Improvement Contractors license.
2. Holds active workers compensation and liability insurances.
3. Answers and returns your calls in a timely manner.
4. Has the expertise and is well qualified to handle your unique plumbing problem.
5. Arrives on time and provides you with updates if he’s running late.
6. Explains the solutions to your problem in simple terms and offers several options.
7. Offers Flat Rate or Up Front Pricing, is clear about service call charges and offers written solutions.
8. Shows up prepared with everything needed to complete your repair.
9. Provides continued communication through any decision making process.
10. Provides a detailed invoice that explains all charges, guarantees and restrictions.
11. Follows up after his service to make sure all is working well.
    
    

      Until Next Time, HAPPY PLUMBING!