Calling a plumber is often a dreaded moment because it can be difficult to find a qualified and honest craftsman near you. Especially since the intervention of a plumber is generally urgent: clogged sink, water leak, broken heating system… What are the tips for calling in a competent plumber and not regretting your choice?
1. REQUEST A DETAILED QUOTE
The first thing to do to find a good craftsman is to ask for a detailed and, above all, written quote. Indeed, information given simply orally has no value. It is necessary to have the prices written on a quote before starting the work because each craftsman applies his prices.
As a result, a plumber located in the Paris region will not necessarily charge the same prices for the same repairs as a plumber in Nice. You must also take the time to check that the quote includes all the mandatory information for this trade, that is to say, the contact details of the company or the indication of the ten-year insurance.
2. REQUEST PROOF OF INSURANCE
As a building professional, a plumber must be insured under the ten-year liability guarantee. It is an obligation aimed at covering damage if the work carried out by the craftsman has an impact on the solidity of the work or renders it uninhabitable. Before starting the work, it is therefore essential to check that the plumber is indeed covered.
3. FIND OUT ABOUT THE CRAFTSMAN…
Finding a plumber near you is not very complicated, but finding a competent craftsman can be more difficult. This is why it is essential to do your homework before calling on someone. With this objective in mind, the easiest way is to ask around because word of mouth remains the safest way to avoid scams. It may also be relevant to check that the craftsman is registered with the French Building Federation.
4. THEN ON THE COMPANY
It is important to research the company to avoid scams. The number of fake companies continues to grow and so does the number of victims. You must therefore ensure that the company exists and take the opportunity to check its financial situation. All you have to do is go to specialized sites or call the commercial court and indicate the SIRET number. As a reminder, this number must be included on quotes and invoices.
5. CHOOSE A PLUMBER SUITED TO YOUR NEEDS
A plumber is capable of carrying out a wide variety of work since he is a specialist in heating systems but also sanitary installations and pipes. Some craftsmen choose to specialize in a specific field. Therefore, it is preferable to seek out a professional suited to the situation to benefit from quality work and sound advice.
6. CHECK THAT THE PLUMBER COMES TO YOUR HOME
This may seem surprising and yet there are not very conscientious craftsmen who agree to carry out work without seeing the extent of it. If this is the case, it is advisable not to entrust the work to this plumber. Indeed, a serious professional will take the time to travel to see what needs to be done and confirm whether or not the diagnosis is made.
7. EXCHANGE WITH THE CRAFTSMAN
The first contact helps to get an idea of the craftsman. A professional will take the time to understand the situation and ask questions to determine what work needs to be done. In the event of an emergency, he will be available and must be able to propose solutions.
8. BEWARE OF PLUMBERS WHO WANT TO CHANGE EVERYTHING
Some plumbers do not hesitate to take advantage of an urgent situation to inflate prices or add unnecessary work. For example, changing an entire installation for a water leak when it is not necessary. You have to be careful because a professional worthy of the name will limit himself to the work to be carried out and will not try to increase the bill.
9. COMPARE PRICES AND QUOTES
Before entrusting the work to a craftsman, it is recommended to compare several quotes. You have to be wary of both tempting prices and exorbitant quotes. Neither of these reflects the plumber’s experience.
10. DO NOT ACCEPT HIDDEN WORK
Last very important point: you should never agree to pay a craftsman only in cash and without obtaining an invoice in exchange. It is likely concealed work and the consequences can be serious. In the event of a problem related to the work, insurance does not cover the costs and above all the plumber does not declare the work carried out. This can lead to criminal and financial sanctions for the person who accepted such an “agreement” with the craftsman.
