How to Choose the Right Plumber for Your Home
A dripping faucet, a slow drain, or a sudden pipe burst can quickly disrupt your daily life. While it might be tempting to call the first number you find online, choosing the right plumber is one of the most important decisions you can make for your home. Hiring an unqualified or unreliable plumber can turn a minor inconvenience into a costly catastrophe, leading to shoddy work, property damage, and recurring problems.
Did You Know?
Water leaks in U.S. homes can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons every year. Hiring the right plumber can help you avoid becoming part of this costly statistic.
Pro Tip:
Always ask to see a plumber’s license and proof of insurance. A reputable plumber will be happy to provide this information and explain their credentials.
Fun Fact:
Some plumbing companies offer maintenance agreements, which can give you priority scheduling for emergencies and discounts on future repairs.
Quick Tip:
Before scheduling a service call, jot down your questions about experience, pricing, and guarantees—this ensures you cover all your bases when speaking with potential plumbers.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find a trustworthy and skilled plumber. Along the way, watch for our highlighted tips and insights—they’re designed to help you make the most informed, confident decision for your home.
Quick Tip: Start your search for a plumber before an emergency happens. Having a trusted professional on file means less stress (and less risk of making a rushed decision) when problems arise.
We will cover the essential factors to consider, the benefits of professional service, and the common mistakes to avoid, ensuring you hire a professional who will get the job done right the first time.
Pro Tip: If a plumber offers a free in-home estimate, take advantage of it. It’s a great way to compare options and spot any upselling or unclear pricing practices early on.
Did You Know? Some states require plumbers to participate in ongoing education to maintain their licenses. This means a licensed plumber is often up-to-date with the latest techniques and code requirements.
Fun Fact: Plumbing comes from the Latin word "plumbum," which means lead. Ancient Roman pipes were indeed made of lead! Thankfully, today’s licensed plumbers use safe, modern materials.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plumber
Finding a qualified professional requires a bit of research. By focusing on a few key areas, you can confidently select a plumbing company that meets your needs and protects your home
Pro Tip: Always start your search for a plumber before an emergency strikes. Having a vetted professional on hand saves you time and stress when a problem pops up.
Did You Know? Some plumbing codes and permit requirements vary widely by city and county. A reputable, licensed plumber will always know your local regulations and guide you through the permitting process if necessary.
Quick Tip: Ask about a plumber's availability for urgent or after-hours repairs, even if you don’t need them right now—it makes all the difference in a burst pipe situation.
Fun Fact: The word “plumber” comes from the Latin for lead, “plumbum,” because ancient Romans used lead pipes. Thankfully, modern plumbers use safe materials, but their expertise still prevents major headaches!
1. Verify Credentials and Experience
The first step in vetting any plumber is to confirm their professional qualifications. These credentials are a baseline indicator of their legitimacy and expertise.
- License and Insurance: Always confirm that the plumber is licensed by the state of Georgia and carries both general liability insurance and worker's compensation. A license proves they have met the minimum requirements for training and knowledge. Insurance protects you from financial liability in case of an accident or damage to your property during the job. Don't hesitate to ask for proof of both.
- Experience Level: Ask how long the company has been in business. An established company with years of experience has likely encountered a wide range of plumbing issues and has a proven track record of resolving them. While new companies can be great, experience often signifies reliability and stability.
- Specialization: Some plumbers focus on new construction and remodels, while others specialize in service and repair. If you need a specific job done, like trenchless sewer repair or water heater installation, ask if they have specialized training or experience in that area.
2. Check Reputation and References
A plumber’s reputation is a powerful indicator of the quality of their service. Look for social proof to gauge their performance.
Did You Know? A plumber with a strong local reputation is more likely to go the extra mile—word-of-mouth business is essential in the plumbing industry.
Fun Fact: According to surveys, most homeowners say they would rather pay a bit more for a plumber with great customer reviews than risk hiring someone unknown. Your peace of mind is worth it!
Online Reviews: Check reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for patterns in the feedback. Consistently positive comments about punctuality, fair pricing, and quality work are great signs. Be wary of companies with recurring complaints about communication issues or unexpected costs.
Personal Referrals: Ask friends, family, neighbors, or local real estate agents for recommendations. A personal referral from someone you trust is often the most reliable way to find a great plumber.
Professional References: For larger projects, consider asking the plumbing company for a list of references from past clients. A reputable company should be happy to provide them.
3. Understand Pricing and Estimates
Surprise costs are a major source of stress for homeowners. A transparent pricing structure is a hallmark of a professional plumber.
Pro Tip: Always ask for a written, itemized estimate before any work begins—this will help you avoid hidden charges later.
Quick Tip: Clarify whether the estimate includes both labor and materials. Sometimes, only labor is covered up front.
Get a Written Estimate: Never proceed with work without a detailed written estimate. The estimate should clearly break down the costs for labor and materials. This prevents misunderstandings and protects you from unexpected charges.
Pricing Structure: Ask if the plumber charges a flat rate for the job or an hourly rate plus materials. An hourly rate can be appropriate for diagnostic work, but a flat-rate price is often better for defined projects, as it won't change if the job takes longer than expected.
Warranties and Guarantees: Inquire about their warranty policy. A trustworthy plumber will stand behind their workmanship and the parts they install. Understanding the terms of their guarantee provides peace of mind and protection for your investment.
Evaluating Customer Service and Availability
Technical skill is only part of the equation. A plumber's professionalism and communication style are just as important.
Pro Tip: Trust your first impressions when speaking with a plumber. If they’re courteous, clearly explain their services, and patiently answer your questions, it’s a great sign of their future service quality.
Did You Know? Good plumbers will walk you through what’s wrong, why it happened, and what your options are—clear communication helps build trust and ensures you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Pay attention to how they communicate from the very first call. Do they take the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions clearly? A good plumber should be able to explain the problem and the proposed solution in terms you can understand, without relying on confusing technical jargon.
Availability is another critical factor, especially in an emergency. If you have a burst pipe on a weekend, you need a plumber who offers 24/7 service or has a system for responding to urgent calls promptly.
The Value of Hiring an Experienced Plumber
When it comes to protecting your home’s plumbing system, experience counts. An experienced plumber brings a wealth of practical knowledge gained from handling countless real-world situations, making them better equipped to quickly identify and fix problems that might stump a less-seasoned professional.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask a plumber how long they’ve been in the business or about the types of projects they handle most often—experienced professionals are always proud to share their track record.
Experienced plumbers have seen it all: from hidden leaks inside walls to complex sewer main blockages and intricate remodel work requiring precise pipe rerouting. Their expertise allows them to troubleshoot efficiently, minimize unnecessary work, and ensure repairs or installations are done right the first time. This leads to fewer callbacks, reduced risk of future issues, and ultimately saves you time and money.
Did You Know? Plumbers with years of experience often develop a sixth sense for spotting underlying plumbing issues that may not be obvious—catching small problems before they grow into expensive disasters.
Reliability is another major benefit. An established plumber is more likely to show up on time, communicate clearly, and stand behind their workmanship with solid guarantees. They’ve built their reputation on trust, delivering consistently high-quality results that keep customers coming back.
Fun Fact: Many experienced plumbers are active members of professional organizations, keeping up with new technologies so they can offer the latest solutions to their clients.
By hiring a plumber with a proven background, you’re ensuring your repairs or projects are in the hands of someone who can handle any surprises that might come up—giving you peace of mind and confidence in the work performed.
With countless online tutorials, attempting a DIY plumbing fix can be tempting. While simple tasks like plunging a toilet are manageable, most plumbing work is best left to a professional.
Pro Tip: For anything beyond the basics—like repairing leaks, replacing fixtures, or handling water heater issues—call a licensed plumber. DIY mistakes can cause more harm and be much costlier to fix.
Fun Fact: Professional plumbers use specialized cameras that can “see” inside your pipes to quickly pinpoint hidden leaks and blockages—saving you time and guesswork.
Quick Tip: If you attempt a repair and feel unsure, stop and call a pro. Good plumbers don’t mind finishing a job you started—better safe than sorry!
Expertise and Equipment: Professional plumbers have the training, experience, and specialized tools to diagnose and fix problems correctly. A misdiagnosed issue can lead to incorrect repairs that cause more damage.
Safety: Plumbing work can involve risks, from exposure to contaminated water to dealing with high-pressure water lines. Professionals are trained to handle these hazards safely.
Code Compliance: Licensed plumbers understand local building codes and ensure all work is compliant. Non-compliant work can create safety issues and may need to be redone, costing you more money and potentially causing problems if you decide to sell your home.
Long-Term Savings: While hiring a professional has an upfront cost, it saves you money in the long run. A proper repair prevents recurring issues, protects your home from water damage, and gives you confidence that the job was done right.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Plumber
Making a hasty decision can lead to regret. Avoid these common pitfalls:
Quick Tip: If you receive a quote that’s much lower than others, ask for details about the materials and scope of work—sometimes, a bargain price means corners are being cut.
Hiring the First Plumber You Call: Take the time to vet at least two or three companies before making a decision.
Choosing Based on Price Alone: The cheapest quote is not always the best value. An unusually low bid could be a red flag for inexperience, low-quality parts, or a "bait-and-switch" tactic.
Not Getting a Written Contract: A verbal agreement is not enough. A written estimate or contract protects both you and the plumber.
Ignoring Red Flags: Pay attention to your instincts. If a plumber is evasive, unprofessional, or pressures you into making a quick decision, it's best to look elsewhere.
Pro Tip: Always take a minute to read over the contract before signing—check for clear terms on pricing, scope of work, and warranty details.
Failing to Verify Licensing and Insurance: This is the most crucial step. Never skip it.
Fun Fact: According to a recent industry study, homeowners who ask at least three plumbers for estimates report a higher satisfaction rate with the finished job!
Hiring the First Plumber You Call: Take the time to vet at least two or three companies before making a decision.
Choosing Based on Price Alone: The cheapest quote is not always the best value. An unusually low bid could be a red flag for inexperience, low-quality parts, or a "bait-and-switch" tactic.
Not Getting a Written Contract: A verbal agreement is not enough. A written estimate or contract protects both you and the plumber.
Ignoring Red Flags: Pay attention to your instincts. If a plumber is evasive, unprofessional, or pressures you into making a quick decision, it's best to look elsewhere.
Failing to Verify Licensing and Insurance: This is the most crucial step. Never skip it.
Your Trusted Partner in Plumbing
Choosing the right plumber is about finding a skilled professional you can trust to protect your home.
By verifying credentials, checking their reputation, and insisting on clear communication, you can ensure you receive high-quality service.
Did You Know? Establishing a relationship with a reliable plumber before an emergency can lead to faster service and better pricing down the road.
Fun Fact: Many top-rated plumbers get over half their business from repeat customers and referrals—that’s a good sign you’re dealing with someone trustworthy!
Quick Tip: Save your chosen plumber’s contact info in your phone under “Emergency Plumbing” so you’re not scrambling for a number when disaster strikes.
At TD Lambert Plumbing, we are committed to providing honest, reliable, and expert plumbing services to homeowners across the greater Atlanta area. All our work is overseen by a licensed Master Plumber, and we stand by our commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.
If you need a plumber you can count on, contact TD Lambert Plumbing today for a free quote or to schedule your service.
