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.
An unqualified plumber will charge usually high service fees and provide substandard service and poor quality parts. After the plumber has completed the job, check the work. You can check to see if everything is put back together and there is no mess on the floor. As well, you should turn on the taps and flush the toilet to see if everything is running properly.
Some bathtub repair valves do not take washers and therefore you cannot repair them. If you have a washerless shut-off valve that leaks it will need to be replaced. You will need: a propane torch, solder, flux, sandcloth, a wire fitting brush, a small section of copper pipe (most likely 3/4" I.D.), a slip coupling (again probably 3/4") and a shut-off valve. I would highly recommend installing a ball valve with a drain on it as opposed to a washer style valve. If you purchase a decent quality ball valve it will last a very long time.
Leaks can come from so many sources, so you know that this is going to take time to locate and rectify. At least in this case there Trustworthy plumber is actual evidence that can be tracked. A hidden leak can drip on and on for a long time, silently adding money to your water bill.
The number one thing to look for is emergency services. You never know when a pipe will burst or a toilet will overflow. It is not always during business hours, and you certainly cannot wait hours until a Local plumber is ready to come to your home in the morning. You need someone who will be responsive when you need fast help, which is why you should look for a company that provides emergency hours. You may have to pay an extra fee, but it is usually cheaper than having to pay for mold elimination down the road after letting standing water stay in your house for days.
The nest best bet is the yellow ages. You can look up the yellow pages. The yellow pages will have information regarding every service agency you require. You can try to look up the internet for a little additional information. The internet is also as well detailed and is updated more e often. There are plenty of plumbers advertising themselves on the internet. You can also find these advertisements in news papers.
It is important to hire a professional for all of your plumbing needs. In order to protect your home and the investment you have made in it, you need to hire only the best contractor for any repairs.