Let's face it: when it comes to home maintenance, finding a trustworthy plumber can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s why we've compiled ten expert tips to help you navigate the sometimes murky waters of plumber selection. So, grab a cuppa and let's dive in, shall we?
Picture this: it's 2 AM, your bathroom's flooded, and you're frantically Googling "how to find a plumber" while standing ankle-deep in water. Not ideal, right? That's why it's essential to have a reliable plumber on speed dial before disaster strikes. After all, a good plumber is worth their weight in gold (or perhaps, in this case, copper piping).
Word of mouth is still a powerful tool in the digital age. Start by asking friends, family, and neighbours for recommendations. Your Nan might just know the best pipe whisperer in town!
Once you've exhausted your personal network, it's time to turn to the internet. Online reviews can be a goldmine of information, but remember to take them with a pinch of salt. Look for patterns in reviews rather than focusing on one-off comments.
A proper plumber should be licensed and insured. It's not just about looking good in a boiler suit (though that doesn't hurt). These credentials protect you and your home if something goes pear-shaped.
While we're not ageist, experience does count for something in plumbing. Look for a plumber who's been around the u-bend a few times, especially when it comes to your specific issue.
Good communication is key. You want a plumber who can explain what's wrong without boring you to tears with plumbing jargon. Think of it as the Goldilocks of communication - not too little, not too much, but just right.
When you're dealing with a plumbing emergency, you want someone who's been there, done that, and got the t-shirt. Don't be shy about asking about their experience with your specific problem - and check out our guide to plumbing emergencies to see what we constitute as a plumbing urgence.
Any plumber worth their salt should be happy to provide references. If they start shuffling their feet and mumbling excuses, consider it a red flag.
Talking about rates can be awkward, but it's necessary. Make sure you understand what's included in the estimate. Hidden fees are about as welcome as a blocked toilet on Christmas Day.
Don't just take their word for it - verify their licensing and insurance. It might seem like a faff, but it's worth it for peace of mind.
A quick online search can reveal any complaints or legal issues. Think of it as Facebook stalking, but for a good cause.
If an estimate seems unusually low, ask yourself why. Are they cutting corners, or just really bad at maths?
A lack of reviews or references could mean they're new to the game, or that they're hiding something. Either way, proceed with caution.
If they're pressuring you to make a decision faster than you can say "leaky tap", take a step back. A good plumber should respect your need to think things over.
Don't settle for the first plumber you find. Get multiple quotes and compare them. It's not cheating, it's being smart!
At the end of the day, if something feels off, listen to that little voice in your head. It's usually right (except when it tells you to eat that entire tub of ice cream).
Finding a reliable plumber doesn't have to be a pain in the pipe. With these tips in your toolkit, you're well-equipped to find a plumber who'll keep your home's waterworks running smoothly.
And if you're in East London and need a hand, why not give FS Drainage - the best drain unblocking company in East London - a ring? We promise we tick all the boxes we've just talked about - and having a good plumber on speed dial saves a whole lot of problems.
