Plumbing problems are quite common than you think, particularly in older homes. Whether the problem is as simple as a leaky faucet, or something as complex as changing a pipe or installing a sink, it is already enough to throw a normal life out of gear. Although homeowners can already rectify the simpler problems, hiring a skilled plumber would be necessary to fix the more complex issues. But before you go and hire a plumbing contractor, there are some considerations that you should keep in mind and those considerations are as follows:
1. Services Offered
One of the most important things to consider when looking for a plumbing contractor is the type of service they are offering. For instance, would you consider hiring a plumber who only does commercial repairs to install your water heater? We’re sure you won’t. Apart from the service they offer, you should also find out whether or not they dispatch a 24 hours plumber, since some plumbing emergencies don’t just happen on normal business hours.
2. Experience
Other than the services they are offering, experience is another factor worth considering when choosing a plumber. It is crucial for you to ensure that he has experienced working or fixing an issue similar to yours even before he arrives. Although hiring an experienced plumber is more expensive, it is rest assured that he will get the plumbing works done faster and with greater accuracy.
3. License
Ensure that you will only hire plumbers or plumbing contractors who are bonded, insured, and licensed. His license will confirm that he has undergone appropriate training, and has the knowledge needed to tackle any type of plumbing problem. Also, hiring a licensed plumber like faber plumbing in Singapore guarantees that your interest will be protected, should something go wrong with his plumbing job. Just ensure that you hire a plumber from a reputable plumbing contractor, as the person would be more likely to provide plumbing services during emergencies.
4. Cost
Most professional plumbers usually come to their client’s home to take a look at the problem, and give a free estimate of how much it will cost to fix the issue. Once you get the cost estimate, ask your plumber if the amount quoted already includes the cost of labour and materials. Also, consider inquiring if your total estimate is an hourly rate (excludes cost of materials) or a flat rate (one that will likely increase because of the labour costs).
Furthermore, confirm with your plumber as to when he expects to be paid. Some plumbing contractors expect to be paid on a daily or weekly basis, while others prefer receiving the payment upon the completion of their work.
5. Warranty
Clarify the type of warranty that comes with the plumber’s work. Is he offering a written guarantee? What will happen if you are not satisfied with their work, or if the issue arises again after they leave? Without any guarantee, you might end up paying for another round of plumbing services should further complications or problems arise.
6. Response Time
If you are calling for emergency plumbing services, consider inquiring about how soon they will be able to fix the problem. Although there is a good number of emergency plumbers in Singapore, their response time could be significantly delayed if they will be required to travel long distances just to get to your home.
7. Parts and Permits
Before hiring a plumber or a plumbing contractor, ask if they stock their plumbing equipment in their work vehicle. If they don’t have the necessary parts on hand, then they might need to purchase it from a hardware store, thus adding to the cost of their service. Other than that, you should also consider asking whether or not the plumber can quickly get all the necessary permits to get the job done – especially if your plumbing problem will cause some structural damage to your home.
8. Insurance
If you are planning to hire a plumbing contractor, ensure that they provide their plumber with liability insurance and compensation, as these cover their workers in case they get injured on the job. In the absence of an insurance, the homeowner will be held responsible to pay for the person’s medical bills and other related expenses.
Liability insurance, on the other hand, pays for any damages that the plumber brought to your home. Without such insurance, the homeowner will likely end up paying for these damages and repairs.
9. Customer Promise
A good sign that you found a trustworthy and reliable plumber or plumbing contractor is their customer charter. If your chosen plumber clearly lays out his promises to his customer, you will be able to get a feel as to what kind of plumber he really is.
10. Referrals
Perhaps this is the most important factor to consider when choosing a plumber. Most of us prefer getting the work done through people that we know and trust. If you don’t know any good plumbing contractor, however, consider asking for recommendations from people who have engaged similar services as yours. Ask your friends and relatives for referrals, or research some plumbers available in Singapore online.
Finding a skilled and reliable plumber can be challenging at times, but keeping these considerations in mind will surely make dealing with a plumbing emergency less stressful, and even help you find a good plumbing contractor.
