How to Get an Honest Price Out of a Tradesman, Even the Plumber

The first tip in this article is exactly what I would have suggested when it comes to finding someone to do work on your home. Ask your family and friends – do a call out on Facebook etc. Also, don’t be afraid to not hire someone just because you don’t like them, instinct is a REAL thing and its rarely wrong. Interview, make sure and at least see a few different people before making a decision. I’ve had very very little work done to my home except that I’ve done myself but, before I hire anyone, I always know exactly what I want them to do and have a figure in my head of roughly what I think the job is worth.

In the end though I’ve generally hired based on my gut, my friends suggestions when it comes to the person and I’ve never hired the lowest bidder. A little more cost right now to make sure the job is done exactly how you want it to be can save you A LOT of money later if the job is done wrong!

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)

So, you need a plumber. You likely also want to be sure that the one you choose is honest, hard-working, and competent at the job. The truth is . . . most tradesmen meet the criteria.

The problem is that if you choose one who isn’t, you could end up in a sticky situation where a repair goes bad, you pay way too much for service, or you end up needing to put extra money into resolving the issues.

We wanted to share a few ways to be sure you get an honest price from the tradesman you choose.

Compile Personal Recommendations

The best way to find a competent and honest plumber or other tradesman is by asking the people you know for recommendations. If someone has used a professional in the past and vouches for their work, that’s something to remember.

This is an especially good thing to keep in mind if you have seen the work a tradesman has done. Don’t be afraid to ask co-workers, friends, and family members if they know a great plumber who they can put you in contact with.

Take a Look at Online Reviews

Sometimes you might be in a situation where you’re new to the area and don’t have trusted friends you can ask for recommendations.

If this is the case, consider using the Internet to research your options. Take a look at reviews from other customers, peruse the company’s website, and otherwise find useful information. This can give you an idea of what plumbers you can trust and who you can’t.

Always Get Multiple Quotes

It’s always a smart idea to get quotes from a few different experts before you sign a contract with anyone.

This will immediately tell you if, for example, one of them has a seriously elevated price for the same work as the others. Our recommendation is to get at least three quotes before choosing the company that will fix your problem.

This helps you avoid getting ripped off and gives you time to ask additional questions you might have about your current situation.

Request References

If you’ve narrowed down your options, now is the time to ask for references.

However, just getting some names and numbers is not enough. You also need to call two or three people on the list to ask questions. Speak to them about the service and work of the plumber you are interested in. If the job you have coming up is a large one, you could even ask to see the work.

If you run into a situation where the tradesman won’t offer references, that’s a sign that you should move on to someone else.

At this point, you have a plumber in your corner who is proven to be honest and capable of the work you need. Make sure that you get a written contract that specifies the terms of your agreement before moving forward with the work.

(This is a contributed post, for more information about my compensation please read my disclosure policy)