Most people wait until something breaks before calling a plumber. That's usually the worst time to shop around. A little research upfront saves a lot of hassle.
Licensing & Insurance Questions
Ask for their license number. Call the state board to verify it's active and has no complaints. Insurance is non-negotiable. Ask for proof of general liability and workers comp. If they hesitate, walk away. A slip in your basement could cost you everything if they're not insured.
Experience & References Questions
How long have they been doing this work? Not the company, the person who shows up. Ask for three recent jobs like yours. Call them. Ask if the job came in on time and on budget. Did they clean up? Would they hire them again? One bad reference is enough to skip.
Pricing & Timeline Questions
Get a written estimate before any work starts. Beware of anyone who gives a price over the phone without seeing the job. Ask how long the job will take and what could push it longer. Overtime rates? Weekend fees? Get that in writing too.
Contract Questions
Read the contract before signing. Does it list the exact scope, materials, and payment schedule? Never pay the full amount upfront. A deposit of a third is standard. The rest on completion. Make sure there's a warranty on labor and parts. Get it in writing.
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