If you live in the UK and are looking for a builder, how can you ensure you employ a good builder who is competent and trustworthy? Finding builders or tradesmen is generally quite easy. You can find a number of trades and craftsmen like electricians, plumber's roofers in local papers or the yellow pages or on the internet. But a list of companies is just not enough. Because builders have a bad reputation it is important to find a company that isn't likely to turn up on one of the television programs exposed as a poor con artist. The trouble is, anyone can set them self up as a builder so finding a seasoned expert rather than an ex window cleaner should be foremost in your mind. You also want a company that can accommodate you budge and do a professional job.
Do you know of any buyers or sellers who have employed the agent? Client referrals are a valid measure of the Realtor's ability and performance. Testimonials provided by the agent are not as reliable as the proverbial "word of mouth" referral. This is as true in real estate as in any other business or profession.
After you have used this method to get a feel for the three or four best plumbers that seem the most reliable, it is time to start making phone calls and sending emails. Be specific about exactly what you want done and ask for quotes. Be very careful if you get offered a seriously low quote. If something sounds way to good to be true, it probably is not. Do not be scared of asking questions. Remember you are in the driving seat these bathtub people need your business. Ask for testimonials from their previous customers. Make sure that they are properly trained, ask what certificates they hold and whether their work is fully insured and guaranteed.
A Trustworthy plumber will answer all of your questions. Good plumbers will provide you with references, and tell you how long they have been a plumber, and the type of guarantee they provide for their work (warranty.) As well, a professional plumber will offer emergency service for nights and weekends. You should be able to make contact with him or her in a timely manner. A professional plumber will also have all of the appropriate insurance such as liability insurance so that you are protected in the event of an accident.
Preventative care is what is needed here such as using commercial products for unclogging a drain and wrapping your pipes and having them insulated. You may also want to invest in drain covers for your drains to catch hair and grease before it becomes a problem that warrants the call to your Local plumber. If you have pipes outdoors that have hoses, before fall sets in, disconnect these hoses and bring them indoors. This is just some of the preventative maintenance that can be used.
Punctuality. It is the most important trait of a good plumber. Waiting for a longer time to have your pipes repaired can mean more damage to your property. A plumber who understands clients values time and make it a point to arrive as soon as possible.
Start off with disassembling the faucet head. Inspect each part to see which are still OK and which ones will need replacing. In some cases, you only have to replace a washer or two, which will save you a lot. However, if you have to replace the whole faucet, make sure that you are getting the same model so that you don't have to worry about compatibility and familiarizing yourself with how to use it.