T
here are several plumbers available in the capital, which makes choosing a good one a chore in itself. Even though most plumbers are reliable and can be trusted, there are a lot of scams out there. And, the only way to get comfortable when contacting a plumber is to learn and recognize the following tricks used by scammers and you'll be better equipped to find a professional.
Bringing in Extra Workers
Plumbers may subcontract parts of the job to an apprentice, a family member or a friend. And, when it's time to write the bill, they claim to have no control over the other people's rates.
When you order work, inquire the number of plumbers who'll be coming to work, the hourly rates and any other fees, and how long the work will take.
Using Bait-and-switch Tactics
With the bait-and-switch tactic, plumbers advertise a certain product or service and later try to substitute something else, often an inferior version. They could also use expensive materials but increase the rates way higher.
Get the model and make of parts or equipment included in the bid, so as to compare it to the final product.
Working Unlicensed and Uninsured
Professional plumbers in London are accredited by The Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors. While it may be cheap to hire plumbers who are not accredited or insured, you'll have nowhere to turn to in case of an accident or the work is done poorly.
Before hiring a plumber, inquire to see their identification, proof of current insurance, and their license.
The Ever-changing Estimates
This scam can take different paths. Shady plumbers may calculate a running total in their head with no offerings on paper, or quote the job without inspection, or come up with additional work halfway through the project.
First, get several competing estimates before settling for a particular plumber. Then, get contracts, estimates, and quotes in writing before they begin work.
