When you decide to use the services of a plumber, the offer is generally substantial. However, between unqualified DIYers, scams and professionals whose reputation leaves something to be desired, it is not always easy to choose your plumber. What are the elements to take into account when choosing your technician? Instructions for using the right professional.
Make sure you call the right specialist
The plumbing profession includes several specialties and it is important to make sure you call the right technician when you need one. Make sure you differentiate between a plumber who specializes in sanitary installations and one who is competent in heating systems, for example.
Rely on word of mouth or serious networking platforms
When you call on a craftsman or want to use the services of a company, word of mouth and reviews from friends and family are excellent indicators of reliability. That being said, we do not always have the contacts on hand who can recommend a competent and available plumber.
Some platforms for connecting craftsmen and individuals rely on a reliable construction network and carry out a real selection of the professionals they offer: this is the case of the connection service of our partner Homly You, which you can call directly on our site.
Check that the professional is registered in the Trades Directory
If you decide to use the services of a small plumbing company or an independent plumber, make sure that they are listed in the Trades Directory and have a SIRET number. This registration is mandatory for all independent professionals who employ fewer than 10 employees.
Check that the plumber has the necessary guarantees and insurance
Very important to avoid taking financial risks: make sure that the technician has the guarantees and insurance required by law. Mentioned at the bottom of the quote, these must be visible in black and white.
Otherwise, do not hesitate to ask for written proof and to check that the insurance certificate provided by your professional is valid. The professional must have taken out professional civil liability insurance, he must have the two-year guarantee (or proper functioning guarantee) which protects you against any failure of the equipment installed for a period of 2 years (and where applicable, if the work has an impact on the structural work, the ten-year guarantee which runs for 10 years), as well as the perfect completion guarantee which covers minor defects noted after receipt of the work.
Check that the professional has the right qualifications and certifications
Certifications exist to attest to the seriousness and qualifications of a plumber. Thus the Qualibat label is a guarantee of quality, and the Quali’eau certification attests for example that your plumber complies with the standards and procedures in force relating to drinking water networks.
Please note: certain qualifications are mandatory to benefit from financial aid for energy renovation work, in the case of the installation of a new heating system. Thus, for a solar water heater installation, request the RGE Quali’Sol qualification, and for a wood boiler installation, the RGE Quali Bois qualification.
Review quotes
Quotes can be real clues that prove whether you are dealing with a scam or not. Take the time to examine each quote. It must be as detailed as possible and must imperatively include the date, the name of the professional, his address as well as his SIRET number. You must also find the nature and quantity of the parts used, their unit prices, the total price of the service, the VAT rate, travel and labor costs, the start date and deadlines for the work, and, where applicable, late penalties.