7 Smart Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Plumber

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Plumber

You’ve finally purchased your dream Sinks & Bowls kitchen workstation after months of deliberation, ensuring it suits your daily kitchen routine. You take good care of it—avoiding harmful substances and maintaining its pristine look after each use. However, like it or not, plumbing maintenance is part of the commitment when acquiring a high-quality kitchen workstation.

Many Australians don’t realise that plumbing is a licensed trade in Australia. Attempting DIY repairs or maintenance isn’t just risky—it’s illegal and can lead to penalties or poor workmanship that may cause bigger issues down the line. So, the next time you need to hire a licensed plumber, consider asking these important questions:

What to Ask Before Hiring a Plumber

Are You Licensed and Insured?

Before hiring a plumber, always confirm that they are licensed. In Australia, plumbing is a regulated trade, and it is illegal for an unlicensed person to carry out plumbing work, no matter their experience or training. A licensed plumber is qualified to work safely and in compliance with local regulations, which is especially crucial for complex tasks such as installing hot water systems or clearing blocked drains.

Beyond licensing, insurance is another essential factor. An uninsured plumber could leave you financially liable for accidents or damages that occur during the job. Make sure your plumber has general liability insurance to cover any potential damage and workers’ compensation insurance to protect their employees. Always ask to see their license and verify it if necessary.

How Much Experience Do You Have?

Experience plays a significant role in the quality of a plumber’s work. Whether you need a blocked drain cleared or a hot water system installed, it’s important to ensure they have handled similar jobs before. An experienced plumber will be more efficient, anticipate potential issues, and have the right tools to get the job done properly. Asking about their background will give you confidence in their ability to handle the job.

Is Your Quote the Total Cost?

Pricing transparency is key when hiring a plumber. Always ask if the quote includes all costs, including labour, materials, and any additional fees that might arise. A fixed-price quote ensures you won’t be surprised by hidden charges once the work starts, whereas an hourly rate can sometimes lead to an unexpectedly high bill if the job takes longer than anticipated.

It’s best if the plumber inspects the job in person before providing a quote. Without assessing the work firsthand, they may discover unforeseen complications later, leading to additional costs beyond the initial estimate. If they charge by the hour, ask for an estimated completion time to help you budget appropriately.

It’s also a good idea to have a written contract, especially for major repair work that could cost thousands of dollars. A contract protects both you and the plumber by clearly outlining the scope of work, total costs, estimated completion time, and any warranties or guarantees included. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that both parties are on the same page. 

Who Will Be Doing the Work?

Not all plumbing companies send the same plumber who provides the quote. Some businesses operate with a team, while others subcontract work to independent contractors. If a subcontractor will be handling your job, confirm their credentials to ensure they meet the same licensing and insurance requirements. If the person quoting the job won’t be doing the work, ask whether they will inspect the project upon completion to ensure quality.

Do You Offer a Warranty on Your Work?

A workmanship guarantee is a sign of a plumber’s confidence in their work. Always ask if they offer a warranty on both labour and parts. A reputable plumber will have no issue standing behind their work, but warranty terms can vary, so clarify what is covered, how long the warranty lasts, and if any conditions apply.

Do You Provide Emergency Services?

Plumbing emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s good to know if your plumber is available in urgent situations. Ask about their response time for emergencies such as burst pipes, blocked drains, or malfunctioning hot water systems. Ideally, they should offer 24/7 emergency services and carry essential parts to complete urgent repairs without delay. Knowing their emergency process will help you feel prepared for unexpected plumbing issues.

Who Handles the Clean-up?

Plumbing work can sometimes involve major disruptions, especially if pipes need to be replaced or trenches dug in your yard. Before hiring a plumber, ask about their clean-up policy. A professional should leave your home as tidy as they found it. Some companies include clean-up in their service, while others may charge extra, so it’s best to clarify this upfront.

Final Thoughts

Plumbing is a vital part of keeping your kitchen and home in excellent condition. Setting aside a budget for plumbing repairs and maintenance can help you avoid financial surprises down the road.

If you find a licensed plumber who does a great job, consider sticking with them for future work. They’ll already be familiar with your home’s plumbing system, making future repairs and maintenance quicker and smoother.

By asking these key questions, you’ll not only ensure quality workmanship but also gain peace of mind knowing your plumbing is in good hands.