subject: How best to avoid Cowboy Plumbers [print this page] How best to avoid Cowboy Plumbers How best to avoid Cowboy Plumbers
You get home and the house is flooded, your personal possessions are ruined and the first thing that needs to be done is for the problem to be fixed. But the last thing you want to do is to hire the services of cowboy plumbers.
Unfortunately, dishonest tradesmen regularly try to pass themselves off as reputable plumbers, before providing sub-standard work for the price you are asked to pay. It can be difficult trying to work out who is honest and who could be a rogue trader, but there are some points you can follow which should help you decide.
Don't be afraid to ask for proof of certificates and credentials. Whilst it may be a hassle to the plumber, if they are legit and want the work they will have no qualms about proving to you that they are fully qualified. They may also show you that they are a member of a trade association and whilst there is no law to say plumbers have to be members of any association, those that take pride in their profession will almost certainly be members.
When quoted for the work, you should be given a written quotation. Honest plumbers will have no issue providing one, but one trait of cowboy plumbers is to only offer a verbal quote or to scribble a note down with some figures on it. In these situations, you should avoid using their services.
The most reputable plumbers will be able to provide you with the names and contact details of previous customers that are willing to vouch for their quality of work. Cowboy tradesmen often make excuses as to why they are unable to provide suitable references, avoid them at all costs.
One way of discovering whether a plumber is any good or not is by their diary. A good quality plumber is normally booked up for weeks or even months in advance, so when you find a plumber that can start tomorrow, he might not be a plumber that people would recommend or be able to return to for a second time. As you can see, with a bit of common sense it can be quite easy to spot cowboy plumbers.
