5 Important Questions to Ask a Commercial Plumber

Commercial plumbing can differ significantly from residential plumbing. Your business has to run efficiently to make a profit, and depending on the type of business you have, a plumbing or drain problem can affect the bottom line. It could be a minor nuisance that closes your bathrooms for an hour or two or it could be catastrophic plumbing failure that brings your business to a standstill.

You don't want to make costly mistakes when it comes to your commercial plumbing. Hiring a licensed plumber with commercial plumbing experience isn’t as simple as it should be, and there are several things that you don't want to go wrong during the process. In order to ensure that your commercial plumbing needs are met and the best possible services rendered, you'll have to shop around before making your decision.

Here are five questions you need to ask before securing the services of a commercial plumber:

1. Is the plumber licensed, experienced and insured?

Licensed plumbers will be more likely to have the knowledge necessary to ensure any work you have done follows all plumbing and building codes; liability insurance will protect both parties in the unlikely event of a costly mistake. Both are critical when it comes to hiring a commercial plumbing contractor. Remember, commercial plumber should be experienced with plumbing repairs and maintenance for businesses of all types. Think of the many types of businesses that rely on plumbers. Everything from a gas station to a restaurant to a manufacturing plant needs working plumbing so the commercial plumber you hire should have experience fixing the plumbing in your specific type of business.

2. Does the plumbing company charge for estimates?

Before the plumber comes out to your business, make sure you know whether or not you'll be charged for the inspection. It depends on the plumbing company whether or not this fee will be assessed. Sometimes these fees are call “trip charges.” That’s just the cost for the plumber to stop by and make an assessment of your problem before any real work begins.

3. Are rates hourly or does the plumber charge a flat rate fee?

In order to avoid unnecessary overages, check to make sure the number the plumber quotes you is either all-inclusive of the labor and parts necessary or if you will be charged by the hour. You don't want to get nickel-and-dimed by the company for unknown charges. It pays to know exactly what they're charging you for and how they're levying those charges.

4. How long has the plumbing company been in business?

Commercial plumbers that have been around for a while will be more likely to have favorable reviews from the community. In addition, an older, better established company is more likely to have experienced plumbers with proven track records for good quality work. Established companies are also more likely to provide 24-hour emergency service. Remember, your business may be at a standstill until the plumber can fix the problem.

5. What is the warranty policy?

It's important for plumbers to guarantee their labor when they are rendering services to your business. Be sure to learn what the protocol is for claiming a warranty before you sign on the dotted line. Most often the plumbing fixtures are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty but you should be concerned about how long the plumber will guarantee his work (labor).

When you partner with Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Drain Service, you will get upfront answers to these questions. Additionally, Roto-Rooter has locations from coast-to-coast in every population center over 25,000 people. That’s important if your business has multiple locations across state or across the country. Get in touch with your local commercial plumbing expert at Roto-Rooter today for more information.