As a general rule, hiring a plumber is a necessary evil. Contractors charge an hourly rate that doesn’t come cheap, but their services are notoriously difficult to get at a price that makes financial sense for most home owners. Contractors are also notorious for making mistakes, although a properly written contract can help reduce this risk. However, when it comes to plumbing installation, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Unfortunately, there are many hazards associated with installing plumbing in a home from faulty materials to faulty workmanship. As such, it’s important that you keep these tips in mind throughout the entire process so nothing is overlooked. Fortunately, many of these mistakes can easily be avoided so you can walk away from the job happy with the results. Here are some things to keep in mind when hiring a contractor for plumbing installation:
One of the easiest ways to learn if a contractor is reliable is to ask if they have references. You can then call the previous clients and ask them about the plumbing installation process. If they’re satisfied with the work, ask if the contractor made any mistakes. If so, what were they and how did they handle it? If you don’t get a response, try calling back later. Contractors don’t like to talk about their mistakes, but you can’t get a proper estimate for how long it will take to correct them without knowing what they were. Therefore, you need to ask about potential mistakes so you can better prepare for the job.
Before the job begins, you should check the contractor’s insurance. While it’s unlikely that they’ll make an enormous mistake that puts their company at risk, it’s better to be safe than sorry. After all, no one wants to deal with the headache of replacing broken pipes after a contractor leaves the site. It’s better to have the contractor sign a waiver that confirms they’re fully insured before the job begins. Not only will this help protect you from potential liabilities, but it will also help ensure that you’re dealing with a legitimate business.
The materials used for plumbing installation have a significant impact on how long the pipes last. For example, PVC pipes are notorious for decaying quickly, while copper pipes are more expensive but can last for decades. If the contractor won’t provide any information on the materials they’re using, you should be very wary of taking the job. This is especially true if they refuse to provide you with a written contract.
Asking for a reduced rate in exchange for a higher volume of work is a common practice among contractors. While this can be a useful negotiation tool, it’s important to be mindful of the fact that the contractor is likely to cut corners and rush the installation process. This could lead to leaks, leaks that require expensive repairs, or leaks that become a source of massive contamination for your property. In the worst case scenario, the contractor could even put your home’s foundation in jeopardy.
Unfortunately, a lot of contractors are quick to use high-pressure sales tactics to get you to sign a contract and begin working before the plumbing installation process is even complete. If the contractor won’t provide you with a written contract, it’s best to walk away from the job. Contracts are legally binding and protect you as the customer. If you don’t have one, the contractor has no legal obligation to uphold their end of the deal.
Plumbing installation can be a tricky job, and it’s important to keep these tips in mind throughout the entire process. However, with a little preparation and the right contractor, you can be confident that the job will go smoothly.