How To Find The Best Plumbers Near You

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It’s bound to happen to every homeowner: You turn off a tap and the water keeps flowing. Or you flush a toilet and a gurgly sound comes from the pipes—then nothing. No more flushing, and no water flowing into the tank. In times like these, you need to have a trusted local plumber on speed-dial—one that knows how to fix your problem and how to get it taken care of ASAP.

Keep reading to find out when you need a plumber and how to find a good local plumber in your area.

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Services Performed by Local Plumbers

Local plumbers work on all aspects of your homes’ water, sewer and drainage systems. Plumbers can install and repair pipes, pumps and associated equipment used for water and sewage. They can also help you find the cause of problems such as clogs, low water pressures, slow drainage or toilets which won’t stop running. You should also call a plumber if you plan on renovating your kitchen or bathrooms to ensure your new space meets local code.

Clogged or Overflowing Toilets

Toilets that don’t drain, or worse, overflow when flushed, are some of the top reasons people call plumbers.

Leaky or Flooding Appliances

If an appliance that’s hooked up to your water line (think: dishwasher, spa, hot tub, washing machine or a fridge with an icemaker) is leaking, you might need to call a plumber to check the connection to the main water line.

Repairing or Replacing Leaky Pipes

Pipes, no matter how sturdy or durable, are not meant to last forever. The connection points between pipes are a common source of leaks.

Running Toilets That Won’t Stop Flushing

A constantly running toilet could cause more problems than just wasting water; the excess water can strain your sewer line or damage the pipes in your home

Clogged Drains

A backed up drain can be caused by various things such as grease, hair, oil, soap buildup, bath beads or even thick facial treatments like mud or clay.

How to Find a Local Plumber Near You

Ask Your Neighbors

One of the best ways to find a reputable local plumber is to ask your neighbors. Find out who they’ve used and if they were satisfied with the work.

Look for Reviews Online

Do a quick search to find out what others in your community are saying about the services they received from local plumbers.

Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Your local BBB works to gather complaints about local companies and publish them online so potential clients can make better informed choices. If you want to know if a plumber has ever had a complaint filed against them, check out an area’s BBB website.

When to Hire a Plumber

If you’ve noticed any water damage in your home, you should call a local plumber who can arrive quickly to assess the situation. Water damage, when left untreated, can cause mold, which in turn can get into walls, causing health issues if not taken care of quickly. A plumber near you can stop the damage before the damp environment starts producing mold.

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DIY vs. Hiring a Local Plumber

Some repairs, like tightening a gasket or using a plunger on a clogged toilet, you can handle on your own. But you shouldn’t try to tackle every plumbing project. Here’s why:

Hiring a professional can help you save time. When you hire a plumber, they will be able to diagnose and fix your problem quickly without having to spend hours trying to guess what went wrong. It can save money.

Hiring a local plumbing professional means you won’t need to buy tools or materials that you’ll only use once.

Plumbers understand measures that can keep you and your family safe. A water heater, for example, if not installed properly, can cause serious damage to your home and endanger your loved ones, yet a trained professional will have the experience to choose and install a water heater that is right for your needs. A local plumber will also know when a small problem is indicative of a larger issue. They’ll also understand structural issues like drainage, connectivity to local sewer lines, and what permits you’ll need for any renovations.

Questions to Ask a Local Plumber

Are you licensed and insured?

Look for a plumber who holds certifications and licensing by national organizations. If you’re not sure a plumber is licensed or insured, think twice before you hire them. Instead, find a professional who is licensed and insured.

How long have you been in business?

We all have to start somewhere, of course, but look for a local plumber with experience in the maintenance and repair of systems similar to your own.

How will your plumbers keep the workspace safe?

Many plumbing repairs require shutting off the main water supply to your home. This serves to prevent further damage, to keep you and the plumber’s crew safe and to conserve water. Ask your plumber how long the water will need to be off, as well as any other measures they will take to ensure a safe environment.

Will my job require a permit?

Replacing a toilet probably won’t require a permit, but what if you are rerouting a drain? A local plumber will be familiar with permits and codes you will need to follow.

How much time will the repair take?

The answer, of course, will depend on the type of repair. A skilled plumber can give you an estimate of how long a repair should take.

Do you offer a warranty?

Will your local plumber guarantee their work? For how long? What is the process for follow-up visits?

Will you clean the area after a repair?

A plumber will work with and around pipes, drains and fixtures, including sinks, toilets, tubs, showers and faucets. How will they keep the space clean and tidy during and after their work? If you or a family member are allergic to certain cleaners, you may ask a plumber not to use them during their course of work.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find a good local plumber?

Ask your neighbors. One of the best ways to find a reputable local plumber is to ask your neighbors. Find out who they’ve used and if they were satisfied with the work.
Look for online reviews. Do an online search to find what others in your community are saying about the quality of services they received from local plumbers.

Check the BBB for complaints. The local BBB works to gather complaints about local companies and publish them online so potential clients can make better-informed choices. If you want to know if a plumber has ever had a complaint filed against them, check out an area BBB website.

Does homeowners insurance cover plumbing?

Usually. Flooding, burst pipes, water leaks and damage caused by burst pipes are usually covered by homeowners’ insurance. A typical homeowner’s policy does not cover damage caused by faulty appliances, such as garbage disposals, hot tubs or washing machines.

Does a home warranty cover plumbing?

You might be covered by a home warranty if you need to replace parts within the first year. It does not cover any damage caused by leaking water.

How much does a plumber cost?

The cost of plumbing repairs or installation varies based on the region and complexities of the project, but here’s what you can expect to pay for common household plumbing issues.

Household Plumbing Issues and Repair Cost
Leak
$100 – $500
Faucet
$100 – $300
Toilet
$200 – $500
Clogged drain
$100 – $200

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