Emergencies can happen at any time. It doesn’t take a day off on weekends or holidays. Nor does it care if it’s 2AM or 2PM.
Issues like plumbing emergencies can occur if and when you least expect them. It could be a sudden leak, a burst pipe, or a clogged drain. Whatever the issue, it can create an even bigger problem for your home.
It’s important to have access to emergency plumbing services if and when you need them. This guide will show you how to find the best plumber that will get the job done in those situations. Let’s get started now.
1. Have a list of emergency plumbing contacts
Preparation is necessary when it comes to emergencies that can happen. That’s why you need to get the contact information of reputable plumbing services that are available in your local area. Include phone numbers and websites as part of this list.
The more prepared you are for plumbing emergencies, the better. Especially when you have the proper contact information.
2. Research local emergency plumbing companies
Begin conducting research on emergency plumbing companies that are located in your area. If they specialize in such services like an emergency leak repair, do further digging. This includes checking out any reviews left by customers and viewing their website for services they offer.
It’s important that you identify the emergency plumbing services that are experienced and trustworthy. Once you have the information you need, include them in your contacts. Also, feel free to reach out to them if you have any questions about their services.
3. Check for 24/7 availability
Plumbing issues show up at any time. And for that reason, you need an emergency plumbing service that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If they do not have 24/7 service, then what is the point of them identifying as an “emergency plumber” anyway?
That being said, if they do offer the service, include them in your list of contacts that we’ve mentioned earlier.
4. Check for licensing and insurance
Emergency plumbing services should have the proper licensing and insurance. Not only should they be licensed to ensure they have the know-how and skills to fix problems, but also the insurance policies that will provide coverage should accidents or mishaps occur during the work process.
As such, it will give you peace of mind knowing that the plumbing service will provide you with an excellent quality service – whether it’s an expected or unexpected situation.
5. Ask about response time
When it comes to a burst pipe emergency, response time is critical. And it’s a race against the clock against this or any other plumbing issue you may be facing. Be sure to ask this question to a potential plumber you’d be interested in hiring should an emergency situation arise.
If their response time is fast for your location, it will be a green flag. The closer they are to your home, the better.
6. Ask about the services offered
Not all plumbing companies are created equal. That’s why it is important to ask about any services that each company offers. Some may have a specialty in handling emergency leak repair.
Others may have a different specialty. That’s why you want to choose a service that focuses on a specific specialty in particular. Should a situation arise, you can hire the emergency plumber that can handle it promptly and effectively.
It can also be an excellent idea to ask about any other services aside from emergency plumbing.
Because you never know if and when you need routine services like installation or maintenance.
7. Get a clear pricing structure
Plumbing emergencies can be an unexpected hit on your wallet. So it should be a good idea to ask about the pricing structure from the plumbing services you’re interested in. Be sure to get a clear understanding of their rates pertaining to emergency services and any additional charges that may apply for after-hours or the holidays.
This will give you a good jump on putting together a budget for any emergency plumbing services that may arise. Looking at the bigger picture, it will also give you a good idea for a partial number when building up an emergency fund for almost any expense that may pop up out of nowhere.
8. Take preventative measures
Even though we’re talking about emergency plumbing services, taking preventative measures is extremely crucial. This includes maintaining a regular plumbing maintenance schedule – which includes checking on your plumbing system by yourself or by a plumber.
It also wouldn’t hurt if you learned basic plumbing knowledge and have tools handy to fix minor issues that are simple to fix. If the issue is a bit more complex, it’s clear what the next step is.
If you are facing a serious plumbing issue, you need to learn how to shut off the water. Especially in situations like a burst pipe. Find the main valve and learn how to turn it on and off.
This will be helpful in the event when an actual plumbing emergency arises – especially one where it is required to shut off the water supply immediately. The skill itself is a preventative measure so you don’t lose water while avoiding further disasters.
It’s never a good idea to not know what to do in the event of a plumbing emergency. Learn these measures and practice them regularly so you know what to do if and when disaster strikes.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing emergencies do happen. And there is usually a service that will be available in your local area. Be sure to use this guide as an opportunity to prepare for the “ifs” and “whens” regarding your plumbing system. Yes, emergency plumbing situations can happen beyond your control – but it’s rare.
Most of the time, they can be preventable. For that reason, be sure to schedule regular maintenance of your plumbing system to ensure that everything is in working order. It will save you time, money, and headaches in the process.