Plumber Pricing in Raleigh

We’ve all heard the adage: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. That’s particularly the case when customers search for a plumber. Often, these customers are desperate. A water heater is leaking all over the basement or a kitchen pipe is frozen or a toilet is backed up.

When you need a plumber for an emergency, most people don’t even think about negotiating. But they still want a plumber who won’t gouge them with their pricing. Too often, customers fall for plumbers who make false promises about their plumbing fees or services. So how can a customer find a good, reputable plumber, even in an emergency?

Here are some tips:

1. Beware of plumbing services that advertise online too much. It sounds counterintuitive, right? You might think that a plumbing firm that is social media savvy might be the most technologically up to date. But, a study out of Duke University found that many plumbers who pack Google & Yelp with reviews were actually lower quality companies, receiving more complaints to the Better Business Bureau than companies that didn’t advertise online as often.

The theory is that companies that advertised a lot were not as successful at getting and keeping customers, and were always searching hard for new conquests. This doesn’t mean you should turn down any company that appears in your search, or ignore plumbing services that have a website. To the contrary—this shows their professionalism. But when the ads are constantly popping up, it may be a case of trying too hard.

Successful companies get and stay that way because they maintain satisfied customers who are happy to offer recommendations. Getting word of mouth referrals from your neighbors and friends is a good way to find a reputable plumbing service.

2. Watch out for plumbing services that provide quotes over the phone. Naturally you’d like to compare prices from different services, and the easiest way to do that is by asking for quotes over the phone. Unfortunately, that’s not the most accurate. For so many jobs, it’s essential for the plumber to come out and examine the problem, its location and context in order to truly understand the scope. Rather than a bait and switch approach, reputable plumbers try to provide the most complete quote the first time.

3. Be careful of hidden or confusing charges. It’s a Wednesday special. It’s straight forward pricing. Some businesses offer so-called specials that don’t really offer you a cost savings. Others have a confusing tier of services that may be difficult to follow and end up costing much more than you anticipated. Take your time and ask questions—even if the basement is flooding—so you understand what you’re getting and what you’re paying for upfront. If a plumber is impatient with the explanation or tries to steamroll you into a decision, this is not a plumber to trust.

It’s hard to scope out a new plumber during an emergency. Obviously, it’s best to find one when you have time to research. Still, be sure to ask good questions of any prospective plumbing service and know what to expect.

Looking for a plumber? At NC Plumbing Service, our team of skilled plumbers can address all your residential plumbing needs. Best of all, we do not believe in high pressured sales and are committed to providing you with fair, accurate, timely and respectful service. Give us a call at 919-868-3585. We service the Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Apex and Wake Forest areas.