When you have a plumbing emergency, you don’t want to worry about whether or not your plumber is trustworthy. You just want help fixing the problem fast. Finding a reliable plumbing professional can be tricky. Not all plumbers have the same business practices or ethics as others. This can be scary if you’re not familiar with the different types of plumbing contractors out there. But with so many options available, it can be hard to tell which companies are trustworthy. Luckily, there are a few general tips that can help you find a reliable plumber. If you follow these guidelines, you’ll be well equipped to find the right contractor for your needs - no matter what type of plumbing project you have in mind!

Ask around for recommendations

Word of mouth is often one of the best ways to find a trustworthy plumber. Ask friends, family, and co-workers if they can recommend a reliable contractor in your area. You can also check online review sites like Angie’s List and Yelp to see if anyone has written anything about local plumbing services. You can also search for “plumbing” in your area and see what results come up. These websites will usually have reviews for local plumbing companies.

Check licensing and insurance

Licensing and insurance are two important factors to consider when choosing a plumber. You don’t want to hire someone without a license, and it’s also important to make sure they have the right insurance to protect themselves and you in case of an emergency. Ask the contractor if they have the proper licensing and insurance to do the work you’re planning on having done. If they don’t, it’s a good sign that you should keep looking. It’s also a good idea to ask what types of insurance they carry. You don’t want to get stuck with a huge bill if something goes wrong and they don’t have the proper coverage.

Don’t forget to check their reputation

Reputation is important when hiring any type of contractor. Even if a plumbing service has all the licensing and insurance they need, it’s important to check their reputation before making a decision. There are many different review sites and social media platforms where you can check to see what people have to say about a company’s services.

Ask if they’re insured and bonded

While licensing and insurance are important, they don’t offer the same protection as a contractor who is bonded and insured. A contractor who is insured and bonded is required to carry a certain amount of liability coverage. In the event that something goes wrong and you’re injured or another person is injured because of the contractor’s negligence, the insurance company will step in and cover any damages. In the event of a lawsuit, the contractor’s insurance will cover their legal expenses. A contractor who is properly insured and bonded will protect their reputation and safeguard you from financial loss in the event that an accident happens.

Bottom line

Trustworthy plumbing contractors are hard to find, but these tips can help you find the right one. Make sure you ask around for recommendations, check licensing and insurance, don’t forget to check their reputation, and ask if they’re insured and bonded.

Frequently Asked Question

  • Keeping the Water On During an Emergency
  • Overusing Drain Cleaners
  • Fixing Plumbing Issues on Your Own
  • Ignoring a Plumbing Issue
  • Using a Handyman Instead of a Licensed Plumber
  • Turning Off Your Heater in the Winter
  • Not Scheduling Plumbing Service
  • Have the Right Tools for the Job
  • Turn off All Water Before You Start
  • Use Natural Methods to Unclog Your Drains
  • Don't Put Trash in Your Garbage Disposal
  • Don't Overtighten Plumbing Connections
  • Don't Hesitate to Call for Help
Maintenance may also include inspection of your garbage disposal lines (and unit), dishwasher, and washing machine hoses and lines. Maintenance sometimes consists of a drain and flush of the water heater. If you've purchased a plumbing maintenance plan, read the fine print and always ask for clarification.
  • Over Tightening Plumbing Connections
  • Using Inappropriate Tape or Wrapping a Thread Tape Backwards
  • Using Drain Line Cleaners as the First Option
  • Handling Plumbing Jobs without the Necessary Spare Parts
  • Failing to Turn Off Water
  • Using Excessive Force on Valves Stuck on Shut Off