Unless you work in the industry or are particularly handy around the house, plumbing probably isn’t something that you give much thought to. At least, not until something goes wrong! If you live in rented accommodation, you can simply contact your landlord to sort the problem out; however, if you own your home, then that responsibility lands squarely on your shoulders.
It’s critical to get plumbing problems dealt with quickly and effectively because leaks, burst pipes, and hot water issues can cause a lot of stress and damage. But how do you know who to call? There are usually a lot of plumbers listed online, but it’s not always easy to know which ones you can trust. To help you out, here are some top tips for finding a reliable plumber in your area. It’s a good idea to have a look before you actually need one, to save you having to do the research whilst your bathroom is flooding!
Ask friends and family in the area
Unless you’re brand new to your city and don’t know anyone who lives nearby, speaking to friends and family in your local area can be a great source of recommendations. Find out if they’ve had to call in a plumber before, and if so, whether they were happy with the service. If they were, get the person’s details from them. If they weren’t, you know who to avoid! Another option is to ask other tradespeople that you’ve had work for you and been pleased with, such as an electrician, to recommend a plumber that they know. If they’re reliable, they’re likely to know others who are too.
Check customer ratings and reviews
If you don’t know anyone, you can get recommendations from personally, looking online for customer reviews and ratings is a big help. Do a Google search for Plumbers Stafford, or wherever you are located, and then check the companies' reputations that come up. These days, there are lots of independent websites you can use and the business’s own website to see what customers are saying about different plumbers. Some comparison websites moderate all reviews that are published to ensure they’re genuine, so you can feel confident trusting them. You can also check other details such as how long they’ve been in business and what they specialise in to help you choose the most appropriate person.
Trust trade associations
Finding a plumber who is a member of a relevant trade association is a good sign that they are knowledgeable and skilled. The two main ones to look out for are the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC) and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE). This isn’t to say that if a plumber is not a member of either association, they’re no good, but if they are a member, you can feel confident in their ability and customer service level. Most members will display a badge on their website, but you can always just ask if you’re unsure.
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