Woman opening front door and greeting male plumber with a handshake.

Plumbing problems can be stressful for homeowners, so hiring the right plumber is important. A good plumber will help you keep your home comfortable and safe. An inexperienced or unqualified plumber can create expensive mistakes, delays, or property damage.

At Donley A/C & Plumbing, we want homeowners to feel confident when choosing a plumber. That’s why we offer comprehensive, long-lasting solutions to your plumbing issues. Here, we’ve provided a checklist with five key steps to help you hire a trustworthy plumber.

Verify Licensing & Insurance

The first step in hiring a plumber is confirming they are licensed and insured. If you don’t do anything else, make sure you do this. A licensed plumber has undergone training and meets the standards set by regulatory authorities. This means they know the plumbing codes and are less likely to make mistakes.

Insurance is also important. It protects you from financial liability in case of accidents or damage during the job. Without the proper or adequate insurance, you could be responsible for unexpected costs that aren’t your fault. Always ask to see proof of licensing and insurance before hiring a plumber.

Look for Experience & Specializations

Experience matters when it comes to plumbing. A plumber with a history of good work is more likely to find and fix the job without wasting your time or money. Professionals who have been in the industry for a few years will have experience working on simple and complex jobs.

If your plumbing issue is specific, like water heater installation or sewer line repairs, it’s wise to find a plumber with experience and expertise in that area. Specialized knowledge gives you peace of mind that the job will be done right and in a reasonable amount of time.

Request References & Read Reviews

Knowing how a plumber treats their customers is another vital part of the checklist. You can gather feedback by reading online reviews and testimonials. Look for keywords like professionalism, promptness, and accuracy to determine whether the plumber’s reputation and work quality can be trusted.  

You can also ask for references from the plumber. Sometimes, speaking directly with past clients can help you determine how the plumber works and if you’ll be happy with their service.

Get Detailed Estimates

Getting a detailed estimate before work begins is a must. A respectful and honest plumber will be happy to give you a clear idea of the work ahead of time. Before work starts, request a detailed, itemized estimate. A clear, transparent quote should show labor costs, materials, and additional fees. This helps you understand the scope of the work and ensures there are no surprises when you receive the bill.

It’s also a good idea to compare estimates from multiple plumbers. While cost is important, you shouldn’t choose a plumber based on the lowest price. Focus on the overall value, including experience, reliability, and customer service.

Check Availability & Response Time

Sometimes you’ll need a plumber to help you right away. That’s why it’s important to know what their availability and response times are. When you have a burst pipe or a sewer backup, you’ll need a plumber who can get there quickly. Prompt response times and wide availability make a plumber a good choice for your home and family.

Response times go beyond scheduling, though. Your plumber should also keep you in the loop about how the project is going. Make sure you’ll be updated throughout the process and that the plumber will put your needs first. A customer-centered focus will help your plumbing project be smooth and as low-stress as possible.

Schedule Service With the Top Plumbers in Phoenix, AZ

Choosing the right plumber doesn’t have to be stressful. A good plumber will meet all your needs and become a trusted partner. By following this checklist, you can feel confident you’re hiring a professional who will get the job done right.

If you’re looking for dependable plumbing services in Phoenix, Donley A/C & Plumbing is ready to help. With over 40 years of experience, a commitment to honest service, and proven top-quality skills, we’re the area’s go-to plumbing service provider.

When you need plumbing services in Phoenix, trust Donley A/C & Plumbing. Schedule plumbing services online or by calling our team today.