Plumbing issues can quickly become expensive (Image: Getty)
January tends to be a tight financial month, especially after , when money needs to stretch further.
If you encounter a issue, you should be aware of what to ask the you are getting quotes from over the phone or via email.
expert David Cruz based at shared the “important” questions to ask.
The first one is to find out if they are licensed and insured. The last thing you want is a plumber who accidentally makes the problem worse.
“Assuming you are calling out a for an emergency, the following are good examples of what to ask before booking a visit,” said David.
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There are checks to be made when speaking to a plumber on the phone (Image: Getty)
Questions to ask if it’s an emergency
- Are they qualified to carry out the work that you need done e.g. Gas Safe registered?
- Are they licensed and insured?
- What is included in their call-out fee?
- What are their rates for emergency call-outs and regular business hours visits?
- How soon can they attend?
- Do they guarantee their work?
If the plumbing issue isn’t an emergency, but does need addressing, further questions should be asked around their availability, if they can supply references, and their particular area of expertise.
Some plumbers specialise in boilers, while others are more experienced in bathroom fittings. David said, “You should ask how your plumber structures their charges before making a firm booking.
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Plumbers can specialise in different areas (Image: Getty)
“Most plumbers charge by the hour but for an emergency callout there will be an extra fixed call-out fee. Their hourly rate may also be higher for out-of-hour visits.”
In the UK, the typical cost of a plumber is between £50 to £70 for standard plumbing work. Depending on the speciality, you can expect to be charged somewhere between £250 to £500 per day.
In an emergency, callout fees can vary from £100 to £150, depending on the time of day and the work involved.
David added: “Plumbers do carry some standard equipment in their vans but cannot carry everything needed for every job.
“Therefore, if a part is needed to complete the work, it is reasonable to pay for the plumber’s time to go and buy that part.
“The best thing is to ask the question before you hire the plumber and make sure you’re happy with the things they charge for.”
After the job is done, you “should ask for an invoice” that includes a breakdown of all the costs, including the time, materials and labour.
David added: “The best way to find a trusted plumber is to go through one of the trade associations such as the or .
“You can ask friends, family, neighbours or co-workers for a recommendation. Online directories and review sites are also useful.”