You know that sinking feeling when you realize your home is flooding? When the water starts rising, you may be tempted to try to stop it yourself. But if you’re not sure what to do or you simply don’t have time, calling a local plumber is always better than trying to fix the problem yourself.
The following problems should prompt you to call a local plumber, even if you think you can handle them:
If you’re finding water on your floor, there’s a good chance that one of your drains is clogged. Clogs are often caused by hair and soap residue that builds up over time in pipes. If they aren’t dealt with immediately, they can cause major damage to your home’s foundation and structure. A good rule of thumb is that if there’s standing water in any room of the house, it’s time to call a plumber.
There are several reasons why your water pressure may drop suddenly or become inconsistent. If this happens right after installing new appliances or fixtures like washing machines or dishwashers, then it’s probably just an adjustment issue that requires some tweaking by a professional plumber.
If you have a major plumbing issue, like having a pipe burst or water leaking into your basement, then it’s time to call in the experts. These issues need immediate attention and might require an expert to fix them properly. It could also be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.
If you have a minor plumbing problem that can be fixed easily and with little cost, then it’s probably safe for you to do it yourself. A simple leaky faucet doesn’t require much experience or special tools. This type of job is best left for the homeowner who knows how to work with this type of equipment and has the time to do so.
But if you’re looking for a professional to help with home repairs, here are some questions to ask before hiring:
Is the plumber licensed and insured? You can check on this by asking for proof of insurance or license. Licensing varies by state, but it’s usually required for commercial work in addition to residential work.
What is their experience level? Ask how long they’ve been in business and how many jobs they’ve done similar to yours. Ask about references from past customers so you can get an idea of what type of service they provide.
How much will the job cost? Plumbers charge per hour or per job, and prices vary widely depending on where you live and what kind of plumbing problem you have. Some plumbers offer flat rates as well.
