Plumbing problems manifest in all sorts of forms and magnitudes. There are minor issues, like a leaking faucet, and major plumbing emergencies, such as an overflowing toilet or burst pipe capable of causing severe water damage to your property. No matter what plumbing issue you may have, it’s essential to get in touch with a professional plumber who can assess the situation and provide you with an accurate repair quote. But before you pick up the phone and call the first technician you come across in Grapevine, TX, you should ask some crucial questions to ensure they’re the right fit for the job.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the top 6 questions to ask a plumber before hiring them. This will ensure you’re hiring a professional and experienced technician who can get the job done correctly and efficiently.
What Is the Technician’s Experience?
If you needed a heart or kidney transplant, you’d choose a surgeon with extensive experience and expertise under their belt rather than a rookie surgeon. So why wouldn’t you do the same when selecting a plumber? Plumbing repairs demand similar skill and precision, so it’s crucial to ensure you hire someone well-versed in the trade.
Ask the technician how long they’ve been in business and what kind of plumbing repairs they specialize in. People in the trades business gain experience over time, and the more experienced they are, the better. They should also be able to provide you with references and examples of past projects they’ve completed successfully.
Are They Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?
No amount of experience or expertise can protect a technician from making mistakes. As such, you should ask and verify if they’re licensed, insured, and bonded. That will guarantee your home or property’s protection before, during, and after a plumbing repair. A license typically shows that the technician is qualified and legally allowed to work in your area. Insurance ensures you’re not liable for any bodily injuries or property damages that may occur during the repair process. At the same time, a bond protects you from paying for improper repairs. These are crucial things to confirm before hiring a plumber.
What Plumbing Services Do They Offer?
Most plumbing technicians offer varied services and specialize in different areas of the trade. Some focus on providing basic plumbing repairs, while others are experts at installing water heaters, garbage disposals, and other appliances. Plumbers who offer a broad range of services provide customers with the convenience of handling all their plumbing needs under one roof. So before settling on a specific plumbing contractor, you can request a shortlist of the services they provide to ensure they go beyond the basic services.
Additionally, emergency plumbing repairs can often involve after-hours services. Make sure the plumbing pro you choose can come to your property in the middle of the night or on the weekend.
Does the Contractor Charge by the Hour or a Fixed Price?
It’s always a perfect idea to inquire about pricing beforehand so you can make an informed decision about the technician you’re hiring. Plumbers in Grapevine, TX typically offer two types of pricing methods— charging by the hour or a fixed price. Fixed rates are ideal when the scope of work is easily identifiable and clearly defined, such as repairing a pipe or replacing a showerhead. Technicians who charge by the hour tend to be more sought after for complex plumbing services that require extensive work, such as installing a new appliance or fixing a significant leak. Furthermore, it’ll be great to inquire about any hidden fees associated with the plumbing services you’re requesting to avoid surprises later on.
What Plumbing Parts and Materials Do They Use?
The quality of plumbing materials and parts used can significantly affect the overall cost and longevity of plumbing repairs. Licensed contractors usually stock a variety of materials and parts for various plumbing services. Ask the plumber which materials and brands they prefer to use most often and why. That will help you get an idea of the quality and reliability of products they use in their line of work.
Additionally, it’s vital to ask if they use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts or aftermarket parts. OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer as the original equipment and are typically more expensive but of higher quality. Aftermarket parts are made by other manufacturers and are generally cheaper but may not be as durable or reliable as OEM parts.
Do They Provide Any Warranty or Guarantee?
A reputable plumbing company should stand behind its work and provide a warranty or guarantee for the services they’ve performed. A warranty or guarantee shows professionalism and confidence in their work. Plumbing technicians who stand by the quality of their work are more likely to offer a warranty or guarantee on their services, which can give you peace of mind knowing that they’ll do the job correctly.
It’s essential to inquire about the type of warranty they offer and the length of time it covers before agreeing to any service. Plumbers usually provide warranties on materials, labor, and workmanship. Remember to get it in writing before the work starts to shield you in case something goes wrong with the repairs.
Are You Ready to Hire a Licensed and Experienced Plumbing Technician?
If you’re looking for the best plumber in Grapevine, TX, look no further than Tioga Plumbing & Electric. We’re the leading plumbing company that has served residents of Grapevine and its environs for more than 60 years. We pride ourselves in offering emergency repairs and standard installation in your kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, pathways, etc., at an affordable price. Our team of licensed and insured technicians is dedicated to providing superior quality workmanship and unmatched customer service at all times, 24/7.
Contact Tioga Plumbing & Electric today for more information about our plumbing services and how we can help you with all your plumbing needs. We look forward to hearing from you!
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