When do I need a plumber?

There are three situations when one thinks of calling in a plumber. Firstly, when a new house is being built, a plumber will be required to fit all of the pipe-work, from the bathroom to the heating system.

Secondly, when one decides to change the internals of a building, whether residential or commercial, a plumber can help advise about how the plumbing will change, and of course will be able to make these changes for you.

The third situation is when something has gone wrong - the heating does not work or there is a water leak. This is when a plumber may be desperately needed.

When should I choose a plumber?

As with any tradesman that one may require in an emergency sometime in the future, choosing a plumber as early as possible can be beneficial when an emergency does actually arise. If water is pouring out onto your expensive kitchen floor, it is going to be much more helpful to be able to contact a plumber you know, rather than scrambling around at the last minute trying to choose a plumber that will best fit your scenario at the last minute.

What are the most common situations that require a plumber?

Plumbers are experts in finding and fixing the cause of water leaks. This can be caused by burst pipes, broken pipes, faulty connections, or problems with faucets. Plumbers are also called out to fix problems with heating systems and radiators, as well as fixing blocked pipes, toilets and sinks.

What is the best way to choose a plumber?

If one has the option, choose a plumber that has been recommended to you by a friend. Ensure that the recommendation comes about from a long history of good work performed at a fair price, and is not just due to an acquaintanceship. If possible, ask for recommendations from friends who are themselves contractors or builders, as they will know many plumbers, and will be able to recommend one which is the best in your area for your needs.

What should I ask a plumber before hiring one?

As well as finding out how long the plumber has been operating, ask about whether they are part of an official registered body of tradespersons. Find out if their work is guaranteed for an amount of time, and whether this includes a written service agreement. Check the written service agreement to see what they will offer if things go awry with their work. A good plumber will have no problem returning to repair any problem that happens with their work in the future.

How much will the work cost?

The costs of a plumber's services will widely vary based on the services they are expected to supply, how quickly they are to supply them, and the level of service one will receive. This is where it pays to choose a plumber in advance, and have a good idea of the type of costs they will charge.

A plumber's bill could skyrocket if one does not choose a plumber that has a ceiling price and a good, clear estimate. Choosing a plumber at the last minute can mean you will have to bear the brunt of any hidden charges you were not initially aware of.