How to Find the Right Plumber for Your Home

When it comes to home repairs, plumbing is one of the most intricate and important tasks. From fixing leaking pipes and faucets to installing new fixtures, plumbing requires specialized knowledge and skills. That's why it's essential to find a qualified and experienced plumber for any job. Here are some tips from the pros on how to choose the right plumbing contractor for your needs.

1. Check Their Credentials

The first step in selecting a plumber is to check their credentials. Make sure they are licensed and insured in your state and that they have the necessary experience to complete the job. Ask for references from previous customers and find out if there are any complaints filed against them.

2. Get Written Estimates

Once you've narrowed down your list of potential contractors, get written estimates from each one. Make sure that all materials and labor costs are included so you can compare them side-by-side. Also, ask if there are any additional fees or charges that may be added on later.

3. Ask About Warranties

Be sure to ask about warranties for the work performed. It's important to know that the plumber stands behind their work and will fix any problems that may arise in the future. Also, find out if the contractor offers any discounts or promotions that could save you money.

Frequently Asked Question

The most common plumbing problems are clogged drains and toilets, leaky faucets and pipes, water heater issues, low water pressure, and a running toilet. Each of these issues requires a different solution that we will cover below.
Brownish stains on your ceiling can indicate a plumbing leak if there is a bathroom located above it. Also, stained or warped walls and floors could be a sign of a leaking pipe and accumulating water.
  • Delaying Plumbing Repairs. Maybe you have a leak in your bathroom sink
  • Throwing Food Waste in the Drain
  • Washing Hair Down the Drain
  • Allowing Dirt to Clog Your Pipes
  • Using Soap Bars With Fat
  • Tossing Objects in the Toilet
Early warning signs of the drain being clogged are hearing bubbling or gurgling sounds coming from one or more of your drains. Or your toilet water or faucets may bubble, and waste water may back up into your tub or shower drain when you flush.
The lifespan for the most common residential plumbing systems are: Brass: 40 to 70 years. Copper: 50 or more years. Galvanized steel: 20 to 50 years.
  • Slow Drains. Healthy pipes should not run slow
  • Frequent Clogs. Another telling sign that you have a drain problem is that you frequently get a clog
  • Unpleasant Odors
  • Strange Noises
  • Flooding
  • Root Infiltration
  • Improper Plumbing Installation
Four of the most common signs of a broken sewer line include multiple slow drains, foul smells inside the house, mold or mildew in the basement, and an increased presence of pests. Plumbing-related issues aren't always easy to spot – especially ones that occur underground.
Signs of Water Leaks in Walls
  • Damp or discolored drywall.
  • Peeling paint or wallpaper on your wall.
  • A warped or stained wall.
  • A buckle, crack, or water stain on drywall ceiling or your floor.
  • Pools of water on the floor near walls or drips from the ceiling.
  • A musty smell.