1. Are you a Licensed, Master Plumber? It takes a minimum of 5 years to become a master plumber. This at least insures a minimum amount of experience along with required classes and testing. However, this does not guarantee quality work. Often times the owner is licensed but the technician that comes to your home is not. Ask. Get References! (and call them!)
2. Are you insured? A minimum of $1,000,000 General Liability? Worker’s Comp? Ask for proof if in doubt, a certificate sent by the insurance company, not one produced by the technician. All my contractors and architects require certificates of insurance prior to work being performed. You can and should if you have any doubts. NOTE: A non-licensed plumber, electrician, or HVAC tech (re: “Handyman”) will NOT be covered by insurance if they create a flood, fire, or any other property damage.
3. Will I get a written quote before you start the work? What’s included? Find out how much it cost Before they start the job.
4. Do you have 3 references that I can call before you start the work? Ideally, your plumber is referred by someone you know who has used them. They can usually tell you as much about character as quality of work. First impressions are important. If a technician shows up with a pierced eyebrows and lip, and a tattoo down the side of his neck, he better have amazing references in hand for me. If it doesn’t “feel” right, (or “sound” right) Stop. Get another opinion.
5. How do you resolve issues that may come up? How do you handle circumstances that arise in the middle of the job that add additional costs? What do you do if a leak develops after our service call? What’s my Guarantee for service performed.