There’s no shortage of plumbers in the Greenville-Spartanburg area. You’ve got plenty to choose from. But if you’re without running water or have a plumbing emergency (or want to avoid one), it helps to know how to find a reputable contractor. To help you make an informed decision, here are tips on finding the right Greenville plumbing service.
Focus on Reliable Sources
Searching for “plumbers near me” is the easiest way to start. While a search engine is just a mouse click away, this alone isn’t going to make your decision any easier. The list will be long, making it tough to find the most qualified, reliable, and affordable company.
Review websites are great places to find insights. Many focus on ratings but don’t read too much into stars or numbers. Read through what reviewers have to say; a three-star rating can be as great a review as a five-star one if the plumber took time to work through issues. People see experiences a little differently from one another.
Also, look at Yelp, HomeAdvisor, Angi, and even the Better Business Bureau. Get the opinions of family members, friends, and neighbors as well. If all else fails, pick a few contractors and ask them for references; a reputable plumber will be happy to hand over names and contact information.
Check For Licensing and Insurance
Any Greenville plumbing service should be licensed by the state of South Carolina. A license means the company meets all requirements and regulations. Also, check its years of experience and if it provides technicians with ongoing training in the latest repair techniques, tools, and products.
Don’t overlook the company’s insurance coverage. No matter how reputable it is, accidents can and do happen. They can lead to damage and even injure workers. Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation. It’s a red flag if the contractor refuses to provide a license number or a copy of its insurance policy.
Inquire About the Plumbing Company’s Experience
If it’s not on their website, ask directly. Make sure they are familiar with the type of repair or installation you need. Not every plumber that fixes small leaks, tightens fittings and unclogs drains can install a water heater or re-pipe an entire home.
Don’t hesitate to ask any questions about their experience; the answer can help determine how knowledgeable the company or repair technician is. It’s important to know if they’ve done similar work and how long each task should take. When it’s unpredictable as to the type of work you can expect, politely end the conversation and call another licensed plumbing company.
Ask for a Cost Estimate
Don’t accept an estimate over the phone. The plumber should visit your home to determine the extent of the damage and/or work that must be done. They should act professionally and be thorough, wear neat uniforms, and be open to discussing their process and how payment works. Don’t accept anything in writing until they see everything, and don’t agree to any estimate unless it’s in writing.
A reputable plumber will explain your options and talk about your budget. It might be tempting to go with the cheapest offer. But ask what’s included in the price. A higher bid might mean the contractor installs higher-quality equipment, provides after-sales support, or offers a longer warranty. Compare at least three estimates to know what you’re getting for the price.
Ask About Ongoing Service
The company should warranty its products and services. A warranty might add to the cost, but it assures a repair or replacement won’t cost you, under certain conditions. Ask about a service plan if a technician or representative doesn’t mention it. It can help you save on minor repairs and include preventative maintenance to avoid clogged sinks, burst pipes, and other issues.
Contact Waldrop for Professional Greenville Plumbing Service
At Waldrop, our technicians have North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification. We’ve also been accredited by the Better Business Bureau. Being a reputable plumbing company in Upstate South Carolina comes with a responsibility; whether you need a leaky faucet fixed, new pipes installed, or a water heater replaced, our team is prompt and thorough, while able to service many top brands. Ask about our service plans, coupons, and financing. If you need to schedule service, send us a request online or call 864-536-0887.
