Hiring a Plumber to do Home Renovation. For most people, the very idea evokes visions of midnight bathroom overflows. Fear not!. In this article, we're here to tell you that the plumber is actually your friend. This plumber can help you carve a sparkling new bathroom out of your old school, terrifying bathroom; or will add a shower on the kids' floor; or will plumb your entire kitchen.
So what are the steps to hire the right home renovation plumber? Just follow these easy steps to get started.
Dig Deep and& Get Recommendations
Talk to neighbors who've had remodeling or new construction work done recently and get names. Be sure that you know going into it that you are hiring a plumber to do remodeling work (not repair work). You may notice those quickie-plumber trucks or vans, realize that they do emergency repairs (repair work) and not new construction work. The ideal solution is a plumber who will come prepared on the assigned date and do the right job, following a pre-determined estimate, in order to assist you in your kitchen or bathroom renovation.
Ask About The Plumbers State Licensing
Call the state licensing website and ask if the plumber in question has any pending complaints. Of course, not every state has plumber licenses, but, if you're does, be sure to call the state licensing agency and ask them. If the plumber in question does have a license, it still doesn't mean that in reality they are a good plumber. Having a license just means that they've met the bare minimum requirements to be a plumber. Local word of mouth is the best indicator of the plumbers real value.
Crystallize Your Plumbing Plan
Pin down your plumbing plan before hiring plumbers. The plan does not need to be refined down to types and sizes of pipe and fittings; the plumber will do that. But you do need to know what you want the final result to be.
Make a Script for Your Calls
Make these points part of your list
Job Hourly Rates
The Cost Per Hour of Non-Plumbing tasks (like opening a wall)
Are you charged if the plumber has to wait for delivery of needed parts?
Is the Plumber bonded and does he have workers compensation?
Will they obtain a permit for you? Unlikely, but it doesn't hurt to ask
For non-rush projects, can you get a better deal by using the plumber on a slower time
Call Around
Call and ask for the manager. Show a little patience here. These guys mostly deal with real plumbing contractors so be friendly, direct, and firm. Of course, you can disarm these managers if you directly ask for their expertise.
Getting the Permit
Are you getting the permit (and not the plumber)? Then now apply for it.
Buy Your Fixtures from Lowes or Home Depot
This is where you'll buy the toilets, sinks, fixtures, and anything else you'll need.
Prepare Job Site
Prepare the site by opening up walls, lighting dark basements, and clearing crawlspaces. This is your house! Take care of it and show it the TLC it deserves.
Stay at the Job Site While Work is Being Done
Don't hover. Instead, remain out of sight but within calling distance for questions from the plumber. You want to encourage questions. You will get a much better work product if you do.
Thank them When Done
After the plumber finishes, be sure you you thank them (as if they aren't getting paid). Then, before they leave, test the plumber job (toilet, sink, etc) and make sure everything works right. Now, go get a beer! You are now done!
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