Did you know that in 2010, the plumbing industry introduced a global day of recognition called World Plumbing Day? According to Robert Burgon, Chairman of the World Plumbing Council, “…we simply want to make more and more people realize that plumbing is a significant industry and a major contributor to public health and the environment.” The first ever World Plumbing Day was celebrated on March 11, 2010.
Is Your Plumber Actually Qualified?
Plumbers are responsible for installing and maintaining fixtures for residential, commercial and industrial clients. They also must know how to repair water drainage and heating pipes and many take care of hygiene and waste removal systems as well. All this takes training – years of training.
Did you know that plumbers generally have to serve Sammamish plumbers 5 years of apprenticeship? Moreover, the most successful plumbers possess high mechanical aptitudes, extraordinary manual dexterity and solid math and problem-solving skills, as well as being able to work in small, cramped areas.
Help! We Need a Plumber Now!
It is certainly true that most Americans don’t even think about the plumbing in their homes or businesses until something goes wrong and panic prevails. Will we be able to get someone out here in time? How much will they charge? How do we find a reputable plumbing company? What do we do now?
There is a definite element of fear about finding and calling a plumber except for those folks who are lucky enough to use the same one time and time again, feel sure of the quality of service, and know that they will not be overcharged. When time is critical and you don’t even know where to begin, searching for a plumber becomes a major challenge. What should you look for? And what should you ask?
Questions for Your Plumber and Yourself
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- Is the plumber on-call 24/7 for emergencies? This is a huge plus for critical situations. When you need a plumber it’s usually right now.
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- Is the plumber licensed in your state? It can’t hurt to ask and even to request their license number. A licensed qualified plumber has to meet strict regulations in order to practice the trade.
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- How long have they been in business? Experience does count. A plumbing service familiar with your problems will not be stopped short by having to research solutions.
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- Will your potential plumber provide you with a satisfied customer list and testimonials? There is nothing more valuable than hearing what others have to say. Ask. The company may have its’ own web site too, a place where you can browse around to get some answers to your questions, and client lists are often posted there.
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- What sort of first impression do you get when you make the first telephone call? Are the staff members friendly and helpful? The attitude of the company personnel in addressing your concerns will begin with the first phone call and carry over to dealing with the technicians themselves in any necessary follow-ups.
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- How do they handle appointments? Can you get an estimated time of arrival so that you are not waiting by the door all day long?
- There was a television advertisement where “Pete the Plumber” actually walked the family dog! By all means – look for a plumber who cares – someone who interacts with you on a personal level. That’s a person who doesn’t just specialize in bathroom plumbing, but who also understands people and their needs.
It is said that plumbing contractors are the highest paid technicians in the construction and building industries, but many offer discounts and even coupons, and are dedicated to charging reasonable and fair prices. Take the time to do a little research in advance to determine competitive pricing in your area. If you are not in a panic, you will be able to calmly assess qualifications and expertise and have those telephone numbers handy. Advance planning will give you a definite edge.
The more you hear and the more you see, the more you realize the degree of professionalism required for your local plumber to fix or install the fixtures and the pipes, and repair the drainage problems in your home or business.
When you look around your home or your workplace and everything’s working smoothly – well, your plumber may have had a lot to do with it.