One thing to note about plumber service calls-they almost never happen under the best circumstances. You’ve most likely called the plumber because of a leak, a clog, a foul smell, a broken pipe or some other sign that things aren’t working the way they should. Fortunately, there are things you can do to streamline the process so your plumber can identify and fix the problem as quickly and painlessly as possible. Let’s discuss some ways you can help your plumber help you more efficiently.
Make a Note of What Has Happened So Far
When the plumber arrives, he’s going to ask you a series of questions, such as:
- What is the nature of the plumbing problem?
- When did you first notice the problem?
- What are the signs you’ve observed that something is wrong?
- What, if anything, have you done so far to fix it? Did it make things better or worse?
To the best of your memory, have these answers available before the plumber arrives. Write them down, if necessary. The sooner he can evaluate the situation, the sooner he can get to work to fix it.
Clear Out the Work Area in Advance
Before the plumber arrives at your home, make room at the problem site for the plumber to work freely without disruption. Remove bathroom/kitchen rugs, furnishings, hygiene items and anything else that either would get in his way or that you don’t want soiled.
Clear Out Pets (and Children, if Necessary)
We love pets, and we love children, but when the plumber is trying to do a job for you, he needs as few disruptions as possible. There also may be safety issues to consider. Before the plumber arrives, make sure all potentially curious pets are contained or restrained. Children will also be naturally curious, and rightfully so-but try to keep them out of the work area unless the plumber specifically says it’s okay for them to stay.
Inform the Plumber of Any Other Problems
Once the plumber has addressed the issue at hand, let him know if there is any other plumbing work you need done while he is there. If it’s something he can fix on the spot, it is easier and less expensive to have him perform these repairs now than to initiate another service call when the next thing goes wrong.
By taking these steps proactively, you’ll not only make the plumber’s job easier-you’ll also help him save you time, money and further headaches. If you’re having plumbing issues, we’re here to help.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jeff Palady, RMP is the President and co-owner of Budget Rooter Plumbing & Drain Cleaning. This family owned plumbing company has been serving their customers for more than 25 years, and makes customer service and quality of work their priority.
Jeff started working in the field at the age of fifteen under the tutelage of his father, who owned a Philadelphia-based plumbing and drain cleaning company. At the age of eighteen, Jeff and his mother decided to open their own shop in their home state of Delaware. For the first few years, Jeff was Budget Rooter’s only field technician, and was often out on calls until late at night while going to school to earn his Master’s License. As Budget Rooter grew, Jeff trained new technicians, researched and purchased the best equipment, and today he manages the operations of the company.
Known for being dedicated to Budget Rooter, Jeff is one of the first to arrive in the morning and is usually the last to leave. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys fishing, modifying his truck, and spending time with his wife and two sons.
