Overview
Reviews help you narrow your list, but the right plumber also depends on the job. Emergency work, remodels and water heaters each call for different strengths.
Look for reviews that mention similar jobs and how problems were handled.
The usual process
- Read how businesses respond. Calm, specific replies to complaints are a good sign.
- Read several reviews, not one. Patterns across many reviews tell you more than any single rating.
- Look at recent reviews. Ownership and staff can change, so recent experiences matter most.
- Ask for a written estimate. It makes comparing scope and price much simpler.
- Shortlist two or three businesses. Narrowing the field makes comparing quotes easier.
Things worth considering
- Watch for review bursts. Many reviews posted in a few days can be a warning sign.
- Check licensing separately. Reviews don't replace confirming a license or insurance.
- Licensing varies by state.
- Very short five-star reviews can be weak signals. Detailed reviews that describe the job are more useful.
- Get more than one quote. Comparing estimates helps you spot outliers.
- One bad review isn't a verdict. Look at how often the same complaint appears.
How to prepare your request
- Your address or nearest cross streets so the request reaches someone local.
- Your budget range, if you have one.
- What you need done and when.
- Anything that went wrong with a past provider, so we can avoid repeats.
- A short description of the job and where it is on the property.
Red flags to watch for
- No license or insurance where one is required.
- Pressure to decide immediately.
- A business that won't give a written estimate.
- Many short reviews with no details about the job.
- Prices far below every other quote.
Questions to ask a provider
- Can you share references from recent, similar jobs?
- Are you licensed and insured for this work?
- Is the estimate written and itemized?
- What warranty do you offer?
- When could you start, and how long will it take?
- How do you handle problems after the job is done?
Common questions
- What makes a good plumber review?
- Details about the job, timeliness and price.
- Do you list paid placements?
- Recommendations here are based on your request. Ask any business you're matched with about licensing, insurance and references before hiring.
- Is it free to request a recommendation?
- Yes. There's no cost and no obligation to hire anyone.
Related topics
- Finding a Good Dentist: Choosing a dentist.
- Finding a Good Electrician: Choosing an electrician.
- Finding a Good HVAC Contractor: Choosing heating and cooling help.