Hiring a plumber is a sure way to resolve a wide variety of plumbing issues from clogged sewer lines to broken-down garbage disposals. But you may have heard horror stories from your friends or family members about the last time they hired a plumber only to experienced major disappointments. Maybe, the guy they hired failed to show up or left the work haphazardly done. You want to have a different outcome for yourself by hiring the right plumbing company. So, here are the top-recommended ways to hire the right plumber in Los Angeles.
Ask if the plumber is licensed and insured
The City of Los Angeles issues plumbing licenses to applicants who have had at least four years of experience as journey-level plumbers, apprentices, or helpers. All applicants must pass the examination that consists of multiple choices relating to the Los Angeles plumbing code. It also tests their general plumbing knowledge and trade experience.
The license ensures that homeowners are working with the most qualified technicians. Your plumber should produce the license on request, and it’s typically valid for three years after the date of issuance.
The plumber should have standard coverage and carry a surety bond. Working with bonded numbers gives homeowners extra protection against any malpractice issues that may result from subpar plumbing services. You may receive compensation when working with insured plumbers in case of any damages during the repairs.
Ask about their experience and specialty areas
You should try to find out how long the plumber has been in business and get a general idea of their areas of expertise. For instance, if you need a plumber to fix your water heater, you can ask if they have experience with your brand. Similarly, if you want to install an appliance that utilizes the latest modern technology and maybe more intricate to install, you can also ask about their background.
Inquire about their rates and if they offer written estimates
Pricing issues often bring a lot of disagreements between clients and plumbers. While you may ask about their estimated rate for a particular task, it’s only after the plumber assesses the problem on-site that they can say how much it’s going to cost to resolve.
Reliable plumbers put their pricing in writing and ask you to sign a contract. The quoted price is often the final price you pay. If you’re hiring a plumber during off-hours, it’s also paramount to ask if there will be an extra charge to avoid hidden fees.
Check their references and reviews
Once you know the name of the company, you can carry out your due diligence to ascertain its level of service. If it’s a local company, it will probably have a YELP listing. You should consider both negative and positive reviews to obtain a complete view of the company. Local plumbers may also provide actual references of homeowners they have served in your area. Counter-check these references particularly if you’re considering hiring the company for a large job.
Carry out comparisons with similar services
You don’t have to go with the first service you come across online. Find out how the plumber compares with similar competitors. For instance, you can ask potential services about the tools or approaches they will use to address your particular issue. You can also differentiate services based on the rates they are charging, but cheaper does not necessarily mean better. It’s also possible to weigh the alternatives by checking what other past users have said about them.
Guaranteed services
Many plumbing services offer service guarantees for their work. For instance, if they install a toilet and it starts leaking prematurely, they may come and resolve the problem for free. Additionally, some companies may promise to issue refunds to customers who are not 100% satisfied with the service for any reason.
Have an informed idea of the plumbing service you need beforehand
Plumbers rely on clear communication to categorize your issue. Any relevant details you give them about the plumbing problem can help them prepare before they arrive at your home or business premises. You need to communicate this vital information to help the plumber assess if they have the required expertise, replacement parts, or equipment. Plumbing companies can also use your brief to choose the best team to send.
Final Word
Take the process of finding a reliable plumber seriously. While there are many professional companies offering plumbing services in Los Angeles, not all offer thorough services. Be very alert during the process and watch out for any potential warning signs that could indicate that the company may not fulfill its obligations
