7 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Plumber

Most bad plumbing experiences come from a handful of avoidable mistakes made before the work even starts. Here are the ones we see most often, and how to avoid each one. For the positive version, a checklist of what a good plumber looks like, see how to choose a plumber.

1. Not checking the license

In New Jersey, plumbing work has to be done under a licensed master plumber. Ask for the license number and look it up with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs. Unlicensed work may not meet code, may not be covered by insurance and can cause trouble when you sell the house or need a permit. A legitimate company shows its number on its website and its invoices.

2. Letting work start without a firm price

Once a plumber has looked at the problem, you should get a price before anything starts. Open-ended hourly work on a bigger job, or "we'll figure it out as we go," is how a small repair turns into a surprise bill. Ask what's included and what could change the price.

3. Choosing the lowest bid without asking why it's low

A quote far below the others usually leaves something out: the permit, the right parts, or the actual fix the problem needs. Compare quotes line by line. Our article on low plumbing bids explains what usually gets cut.

4. Skipping the permit

Water heater replacements, gas lines, sewer line work and most remodeling plumbing need a permit and an inspection in New Jersey. Skipping it can cause problems with insurance and when you sell. A licensed plumber pulls the permit as part of the job. See our NJ plumbing codes guide for which jobs need one.

5. Not getting the warranty in writing

"We stand behind our work" means little without details. Ask how long the warranty lasts, whether it covers parts, labor or both, and make sure it's written on the invoice. Manufacturer warranties on fixtures and water heaters are separate and often need registration.

6. Waiting on small leaks

A slow drip under a sink can rot the cabinet floor, stain the ceiling below or grow mold before anyone notices. Most homeowners insurance doesn't cover damage from a leak that went on for weeks. Fixing it while it's small is almost always cheaper. Our article on whether insurance covers plumbing explains why.

7. Trying a repair that needs a pro

Unclogging a toilet or replacing a flapper is fine to do yourself. Gas lines, water heater controls and venting, the main water line and sewer lines are different. Mistakes there can mean a gas leak, scalding water or a flooded basement. Our list of plumbing repairs you shouldn't DIY draws the line.

What about emergency calls?

Ask what an emergency call costs before you need one. Some companies quote a low trip charge and add a large fee on arrival. Ours is stated up front. The $49 service call covers the trip and is waived if you go ahead with the work. Outside regular hours, emergency service requires a $250 upfront emergency fee. When paid, the standard $49 service fee is waived. During regular hours there is no emergency fee. Additional repairs are quoted before work begins. We respond immediately upon contact; dispatch and arrival depend on availability and location. Our emergency plumber cost guide explains what changes the price.

How do you avoid all seven?

Hire a licensed, insured plumber, get a firm price before work starts, ask about permits and get the warranty in writing. Plumbing Doctor is a veteran-owned company in Somerset, NJ, led by NJ Master Plumber Mike Holt (Lic. #36BI01345600). Written upfront flat-rate pricing options. You choose. Most company-supplied materials and repairs come with a 1 year parts and labor warranty. Client-supplied materials are not covered under our warranty. Read our guarantees or call 908-873-6686 anywhere in Central New Jersey.