If you’re searching for a local plumber because you’ve got a leaking pipe or a dripping wall, you probably want to find one as quickly as possible. But although it’s tempting to rush into using the first company you come across, you’ll be thanking yourself later if you don’t.
Putting in the time to make sure you find a plumber who suits you means you’ll be rewarded with a high standard of work at a fair price.
Finding a local plumber who’s right for you
There are a few essential things that are worth doing to make sure that the local plumbers you get in touch with are quality tradespeople. Here are 5 easy steps to finding a reliable plumber.
1. Verify their qualifications
If your plumber’s going to do a good job, they need the skills and training to back them up.
In an ideal world, the local plumbers you find should have at least a relevant NVQ Level 2 qualification. This could be in Plumbing and Heating, or Installing and Maintaining Domestic Heating Systems. Don’t be afraid to ask about your plumber’s qualifications and to see a copy of their certificates.
2. Check memberships and insurance
It’s not compulsory for a plumber to be a member of a trade association. But if they are, it shows a commitment to their trade and makes it more likely they do quality work.
Popular UK plumbing trade associations include the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC) and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) – ask if they’re a member of one of these.
It’s also vital that any local plumber you find has public liability insurance. This means that any work they do that goes wrong will be covered, so make sure you ask about this too.
3. Look for customer reviews
Reading customer feedback can help you decide whether the local plumbers you find are top quality. If you choose to use our free service to get in touch with professionals in your area, you can see verified reviews from genuine customers on the company’s profile page.
4. Find out how they’d do the work
Ask the local plumbers you find to run through how they’d do the work you need doing. If they’re a quality professional, they’ll have a good idea of this already and will be happy to take the time to explain it to you.
Finding out how your plumber will tackle a task is a good way to test their knowledge. You can also compare it with what other professionals tell you to help you work out if it sounds like a sensible approach.
5. Request quotes from multiple local plumbers
Prices for plumbing work vary a lot – they depend on things like geographical area, time of year and quality of work. It’s often tricky to find accurate prices online to help you work out what’s a fair price for your plumbing job.
This is why it’s a good idea to get quotes from several local plumbers. Not only will you be able to compare the companies’ reputations and qualifications, you’ll also be able to compare the prices they give you.
A good approach is to steer clear of any quotes that are significantly higher or lower than those given by other professionals, and pick a plumber who seems to offer a fair price and a quality service.
Don’t forget to get your quotes in writing, so you and your plumber are both sure on what you’ve agreed.
Need to get in touch with trusted local plumbers now? Complete our online form and we’ll connect you with up to 4 professionals who work in your area.