Knowing the Professional Plumber

Some smaller plumbing pro companies may not have a back hoe for digging up a sewer line but knows a contractor that has one that they work with and have a good re-pore.  Many plumbing companies do not own drain cleaning machines for kitchen sinks and bathtubs but may rent them.  If they do not own a smaller drain cleaning machine they will not own the larger machines needed for roots so they would refer you to a local drain cleaning company that specializes in this area.  Another is leak detection services;  most often plumbers say they offer this service because it may be obvious by seeing it.  Do not be confused, leak detection is a skill-set with special equipment and training meant to find those leaks that are not visible by the naked eye and found without destroying the property.  

A professional plumber knows their limitations.  Whether it is experience, tools, or the ability to know when a repair is warranted versus a new installation.  Here are a few questions to consider asking your plumber to find out if they are a plumbing pro:  

• Are you a licensed plumber? 
• Are your technicians licensed?
• Are all of your employees drug free?
• Do you hire convicted felons?
• Do you do a background check? 
• Are you insured/bonded?
• Do you offer 24-hour emergency service?
• Do you charge by the hour or by the job?
• What are your service rates?
• Do you charge for travel time or going to get parts?
• Do you charge overtime rates?
• Can I email you job requests?