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If you’re doing a home renovation, there are a couple of mistakes to avoid when choosing a plumber for the project.
If you go for the wrong plumber, it could cost you money and lead to catastrophic disasters. When it comes to kitchen and bathroom renovation, you don’t want to mess around. Faulty or poorly installed plumbing work can lead to severe water damage in your home and be an insurance headache.
That’s why we break down why you might need to source a plumbing contractor, how to choose the right plumber, and any nasty mistakes you should avoid.
First Things First: Do You Need a Plumber for Your Renovation?
The reality is that it’s generally much safer to hire a professional to take care of your plumbing system. However, in the same breath, choosing the wrong plumber can be just as bad, if not worse! Therefore, you should always do your research before hiring a plumber.
Some Things to Consider When Deciding If You Need a Plumber
1. Size of the Job
How big is the job they need to do, and what are the risks of causing plumbing problems?
2. What is Your Budget
How much are you willing to spend on your bathroom or kitchen renovation project? You don’t want to spend too little and end up having to fix the plumbing again in a couple of months. That will just cost you more money in the long run.
3. Could This Be a DIY Project?
Look, sometimes you can do it yourself. However, you will have to weigh up the pros and cons before you get your hands dirty.
Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Professional Plumber
1. Overlooking Insurance
We all buy insurance hoping we never have to use it. However, if we don’t have it, it’s often the most expensive mistake we ever make. It all comes down to the fact that peace of mind is priceless, so ensure that you have valid insurance that will cover all accidental damages and plumbing issues. You should also check that your plumber is covered if he obtains any injuries on your property!
2. Thinking All Plumbers Are the Same
Well, this is an offensive one. Like in any industry, just because the result you want is ideally the same, it does not mean that the plumbing services and quality will be. Also, ensure that you opt for a plumber who offers more specialised tasks in the renovation projects you’re looking for. Different types of plumbers will be more specialised in different types of plumbing.
Your emergency plumber will likely be more specialised than your standard blocked drain plumber. Your small-town local plumber could also end up being more qualified than a fancy plumber from Perth or a big city.
3. Not Calling Around: Settling for the First Plumber Near Me
This is a common mistake. A flyer is slapped on your car windscreen, and that’s the plumber you call. However, it might be worth your while to reach out to a handful of plumbers to compare cost, reviews, etc. Good plumbers might be around the corner, but you’ve just never heard of them.
4. Hiring an Unlicensed Instead of a Licensed Plumber
This is an often-overlooked factor when choosing a plumber. And, yes, your plumber must have a license that proves that he is allowed to operate in your area. Don’t just base your agreement on trust; ensure that you see the paperwork too. Anyone can buy advanced tools or fudge experience records, but the licence will give you the peace of mind you need to make the call. Certain states require different licenses, so just check your area’s regulations.
5. Cutting Costs Too Much
Yes, you want to cut costs where you can when it comes to home renovation. However, if you cut too much or in the wrong places, it could end up costing you more in the long run. Remember that, more often than not, an unbelievable fee is, well, unbelievable for a reason. An inexperienced plumber could cause permanent damage to your plumbing and the rest of the house if things get out of hand. You want to go for quality service at a cost that fits within your budget.
6. Not Asking for a Cost Estimate First
Although an estimate is not a final invoice, it will give you an idea of the scale of the product and work it into your budget. It should also specify whether the plumbing service includes call-out fees and what they are. You don’t want to get a surprise at the end when the job is already done!
7. Not Putting the Agreement on Paper
The truth is, we like to think that we can trust other people. But that’s exactly how people get fooled. Ensure that you have your agreement and rates set out on paper before the plumber touches anything. Also, you should specify the time and budget, then ensure that you both sign it and have copies.
8. Only Considering Equipment and Overlooking Skill
Look, it can look impressive when someone has all the right equipment. However, they still need to know how to use it! Ensure that you look past just the equipment and research their experience with said equipment as well.
9. Not Asking Around: Who’s the Best Local Plumber Near Me?
Word of mouth is one of the most powerful marketing methods for a reason. Go on the plumbing companies’ social media, read their online reviews, and ask around in the neighbourhood to find the most reputable plumbers.
10. Unrealistic Deadline
You don’t want to put your plumber under too much pressure. Doing that might lead to a poor job, and you’ll only end up calling in an emergency plumber to fix the mess.
11. Hiring a Plumber with No Guarantees
Plumbers who are confident and proud of their work will offer you some kind of guarantee and be transparent about what the process will entail. If something goes wrong, you want them to take responsibility and communicate well with you.
You certainly don’t want someone who will cause more damage than good or who will try to hide their mistake. Plumbing companies with good customer services will always try to act in your favour.
12. Not Considering Business Hours
Would you perhaps be better off with a plumber that promises an around-the-clock service as opposed to set hours? Keep this in mind as plumbing problems do not only occur during standard business hours.
Have You Found Your Master Plumber?
We hope these tips will help you make the right call. If you’d like to shop for some new bathroom and kitchen plumbing products, or you’re looking for advice, contact us today.
