Tips for Hiring a Qualified Plumber

Hiring an experienced plumber just makes sense considering even small leaks in your plumbing can end up causing thousands of dollars in property damage. Of course, experience is the key; just as there are plenty of qualified plumbers to fix the leaking sink, help with your remodeling or locate an underground leak, there are also those who lack the knowledge or expertise for the problem.

So, how can you make sure you hire the right plumber for the job? Here are some tips to keep in mind.

Finding Local Plumbers

Remember, there are usually two types of plumbers: those who specialize in installing new systems and those who perform repairs. Start by asking friends or family if they can recommend a good plumber and check the Yellow Pages and online business listings such as Yahoo Local, YellowPages.com and Yelp to find local plumbers in Riverside or your city. Start your search by gathering a list of around 5 plumbers so you can begin the screening process.

Screening Plumbers

To screen plumbers and find the right professional for the job, have them bid on the project to compare quotes between companies. Of course, you'll need to narrow down your list first and compare bids from only qualified plumbers. To do this, you'll want to look at the following things:

• Are they licensed? Most states in this country require plumbers to have the proper business license and most also have a number you can call to double-check that the plumber's license is current with no complaint. A qualified plumber will also maintain a workers' compensation policy and liability insurance, which protects you as a homeowner.
• Do they have feedback? Search for online reviews of the plumber or business to see what past customers have to say. You can find reviews on websites like Yelp.com, Citysearch.com, InsiderPages.com and YellowPages.com, to name a few.
• What is their experience? You'll also want to make sure the plumber has been working in the community for awhile or at least has a permanent place of business.

Develop a Relationship

Once you've selected the right plumber for the job, be prepared for plumbing emergencies by establishing a relationship with a local plumber before you really need services. For example, hire the plumber to do regular repairs or install new fixtures in your home during normal business hours. This makes it more likely that they'll be there to help you when you have an emergency late at night on the weekend.

Image: Eli Duke