FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I understand that a big part of Thumbtack's appeal is the ability to get prices on the very front end of a project or repair. But what I would like for people to consider is that this is really not a feasible or sustainable practice, not if the goal is quality service. The qualified and conscientious plumber has to look at the situation in most cases before a price can be given because there are so many important variables that go into properly diagnosing the cause of a plumbing failure and, more importantly, the prevention of future failures. These variables are, unfortunately, often ignored by "budget minded" plumbers whose main tactic is undercutting other shops to win business. The tragedy of all this is that in the end, it's the customer who loses out. Incomplete or improper repairs done with cheap parts and fixtures (especially ones purchased from big box stores) don't last and won't last. It's always less expensive to do a quality repair/replacement/renovation in the beginning than to have to do it multiple times and clean up the damage in between. Most of our pricing is done on a flat rate system. That means that after we've seen the problem, we can give you a price to fix it BEFORE work begins. We put that price in writing and provide a digital invoice (with pictures if needed) to your email box so you don't have to keep track of it.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
After setting up an appointment time over the phone we call ahead when we are on the way. We give this courtesy call whether we are on time or not so you can maintain control of your day's schedule. Then we spend time getting to know what you'd like to see done followed by basic information that helps you make the best choice for your home. We believe that educating home owners about their plumbing is not only the right thing to do, it also sets us apart.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a NC State licensed plumber (P1 unlimited license # 31626) I was apprenticed by a licensed, master plumber as well as several very wise and helpful pros I've had the privilege to work with and for over the years. In addition to that I have Rinnai tankless certification and have done factory service work for them.