Hiring the wrong plumber can cost you more than hiring the right one in the first place. Unlicensed workers, hidden fees, and sloppy installations lead to failed repairs, code violations, and water damage that costs thousands to fix. Before you hire anyone to work on your plumbing in Abilene or the Big Country, ask these seven questions to protect yourself and your home.
Are You Licensed in Texas?
Question one: Are you licensed by the State of Texas? Texas law requires plumbing work to be performed by or under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber. Ask for the license number and verify it on the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners website. There are different license levels — a Master Plumber can perform any plumbing work, while a Journeyman works under a Master's supervision. Using an unlicensed worker can void your homeowner's insurance and create liability issues if something goes wrong.
Do You Carry Insurance?
Question two: Do you carry liability insurance and workers' compensation? If an uninsured plumber damages your property or gets injured in your home, you could be financially liable. A reputable plumber carries general liability insurance to cover property damage and workers' compensation to cover their employees. Ask for proof of insurance — any legitimate company will provide it without hesitation.
Do You Provide Written Estimates?
Question three: Do you provide written estimates before starting work? A trustworthy plumber will diagnose the problem, explain what needs to be done, and provide a written estimate before picking up a wrench. Be wary of any plumber who wants to start working before discussing price, or who gives vague verbal estimates. Written estimates protect both you and the plumber by establishing clear expectations.
What Could Change the Price?
Question four: What is included in the estimate and what could cause the price to change? Ask specifically about whether the estimate includes parts, labor, and any disposal fees. Ask what circumstances would cause the price to increase from the estimate. A good plumber will explain potential complications honestly — for example, a drain cleaning estimate might note that if a camera inspection reveals a collapsed pipe, the scope and cost would change significantly.
How Long Have You Worked in This Area?
Question five: How long have you been working in the Abilene area? Experience matters, but local experience matters more. A plumber who has worked in the Big Country for years understands the local soil conditions that affect slab leaks, the hard water issues that impact water heaters and fixtures, the common pipe materials in homes of different eras, and the city code requirements. Local knowledge translates directly into better diagnosis and more appropriate solutions.
Do You Guarantee Your Work?
Question six: Do you guarantee your work? Ask what happens if the repair fails within a reasonable timeframe. Reputable plumbers stand behind their work with a warranty or guarantee. Ask how long the guarantee covers and whether it includes parts, labor, or both. A plumber who will not guarantee their work is a plumber you should not hire.
Can You Provide References?
Question seven: Can you provide references or reviews? Check Google reviews, BBB ratings, and ask for references from recent jobs similar to yours. Look for consistent themes in reviews — responsiveness, honest pricing, quality of work, and professionalism. A plumber with dozens of positive reviews from local homeowners has earned that reputation through consistent good work. Total Quality Plumbing is BBB A+ rated and serves Abilene and the Big Country with licensed, insured, guaranteed plumbing services. Call (325) 266-4887.