You've got a leak under your sink that won't go away or a persistent drip you just can't seem to fix. Maybe there's an odor coming from your pipes or the water pressure in your home seems weaker than it once was. Whatever plumbing issue currently plagues your house, it's clear you need to call in a professional. But not just any plumber will do. You need someone you can rely on to show up on time, diagnose the problem accurately, and complete quality repairs for a fair price. According to IBISWorld, as of 2022, the number of people employed in the United States plumbing industry is 566,249. Follow these tips to narrow down the options and find a plumber you can trust when plumbing problems arise.

1. Ask Family and Friends for Recommendations

Word of mouth can help point you toward an experienced, conscientious plumber. Reach out to close friends and family members residing in your local area to ask if they have a go-to plumber they use and would recommend. Even if they haven't required a plumber's expertise lately, they may know someone reliable who has done good work for relatives, neighbors, or coworkers.

2. Look For Reviews Online

The internet offers access to reviews for countless service providers — plumbers included. Search online for plumbers located near your address and look at the ratings and reviews posted by customers. This gives you insight into factors like responsiveness, punctuality, workmanship, and professionalism. You can then narrow down your options by reaching out to a few of the highest-rated plumbers in your vicinity.

3. Confirm Licensing and Insurance

Don't take chances on using an unlicensed plumber without the proper credentials and coverage. Before booking a plumber, confirm the individual has an active plumbing license in your state. Additionally, ask to see proof of both general liability insurance and workers' compensation. This protects you financially should the plumber cause additional property damage or sustain injuries on your premises.

4. Ask About Experience With Your Type of Issue

If you're experiencing a common problem like a leaky pipe under a sink, any competent local plumber should be able to provide the needed service. For complex or specialized concerns related to re-piping, sewer line repairs, or remodeling needs, you want assurances you're dealing with a true expert in that specific niche. Ask about background, training, and years of hands-on experience handling your type of plumbing project.

5. Discuss Pricing Up Front

You don't want sticker shock in your inbox upon completion of the job. Before scheduling an appointment, get details on pricing and payment expectations. Find out if the plumber charges by the job or by the hour. Also, ask whether the initial onsite cost estimates they provide are fixed or subject to change. Reputable professionals will discuss rates and billing practices openly from the initial call. However, prices that sound too good to be true likely signify shoddy work or cut corners you can't afford.

6. Request References

Taking a few minutes to chat with past customers will aid your hiring decision process. Any plumber eager for your business should readily provide references upon request. Speaking with previous individual and commercial clients offers candid insight regarding strong suits and potential shortcomings you wouldn't gather from a broader online review. Posing custom questions also helps determine how satisfactorily the plumber met the specific needs of their former customers.

7. Evaluate Emergency Response Capability

Many plumbing predicaments like flooding, sewage backup, burst pipes, and gas leaks necessitate an urgent response. Even if you haven't experienced any plumbing emergencies at the residence to date, you want assurance that your plumber prioritizes prompt attention for dire issues should they eventually arise. So, along with checking performance history for routine service calls, look at emergency response time and 24-hour availability as well.

Finding and working with the right plumber makes all the difference when issues arise with your home's pipes or plumbing fixtures. While no one enjoys dealing with plumbing headaches, taking the time to carefully evaluate plumbers in your area can lead you to a reliable professional you can call on for years to come. With the tips above to guide your selection process, you can locate a knowledgeable and dedicated plumber who resolves any plumbing quandaries efficiently and affordably while providing exceptional customer service. If you're in need of any plumbing services, call us at Advanced Plumbing Systems, LLC now to schedule an appointment.