Quite honestly, no one wants to call a plumber. In most cases, if we’re calling a plumbing company, then we have a problem on the homefront, and just making the call can be somewhat uncomfortable. The fact is, most plumbers want the best for their customers and provide honest work. But there are those that will put profit ahead of principles and are driven by greed. If we take a few precautions, you can always find the right plumbing company at the right value.
Hire A Licensed Plumbing Company
The first thing to remember don’t get ripped off by hiring an unlicensed contractor. Most of us want to save a buck, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that unless you’re putting your home at risk. A plumbing contractor is bonded and insured, and if they have plumbers working for the company, they’ll have workers’ compensation. With a quick search, any consumer can verify a license at the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Enter their license number, and you can have all the information you need to make a valued decision. Hire an unlicensed contractor, and you never know what you’re getting.
In-Home Estimates Are The Best
Getting an estimate – even this can be a little tricky. For most plumbing companies, estimates are free if they get the job. If they don’t get the job, then you end up paying around $60 for them to come out. At Big B’s Plumbing, all estimates are 100% free whether we get the job or not. Get an in-home estimate. Every plumbing job is different and to get an accurate estimate, you need to be at the job site.
Beware Of Lowballing, It’s Usually A Scam
Always get more than one estimate and never pick the cheapest estimate just because it’s the cheapest. If you get two or three estimates and they’re all close, choose the company you’re most comfortable with. Beware of low balling; if a plumber gives you a bid that’s much lower than the rest then take notice. This is usually a scam that doesn’t account for all the labor cost. One way or another, you’ll have to pay for the job.
Watch Out If Your Plumber Asks For Cash
Beware of any plumber that asks for cash, under the table. If you want to pay your plumber in cash that’s one thing, but if they ask you to pay in cash that’s outright tacky and shows weak character. That type of behavior shows that someone is willing to cheat on taxes, and if he or she is dishonest in one area, they may be dishonest in other areas. Never pay your plumber anything until the job is complete and you are 100% satisfied.
Check Reviews
We now live in the 21st century, where everything is at our fingertips. Take the few extra minutes to check reviews on Facebook, Google Plus, and Yelp, and let’s not forget the contractor’s license, Big B’s Plumbing #986152. The Better Business Bureau is another place that still provides a wealth of information. Taking the few extra steps will get you the value and service you need.