We all love a good bargain. Whether it’s a great find in the $5 section, a steal of a deal on a nice pair of shoes, or a BOGO sticker on your favorite treat—it feels good to save! But when it comes to finding affordable plumbing services in your area, as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” And plumbing is one area where one little cut corner can create a big, messy problem.
Before you hire a discount plumber who’s just too good to be true, check for these 4 major red flags. Because price matters—but quality does too!
Affordable Plumbing Dealbreaker #1: Hiring an unlicensed and unbonded plumber
If there’s only one red flag you turn and run from, it’s this! Hiring an unlicensed and unbonded plumber may seem like a budget-friendly option, but nothing turns affordable plumbing services into downright nightmares faster than on-the-job accidents.
If your plumber is unlicensed and unbonded, and they damage your home or injure themselves, you have no financial protection in the event of a lawsuit. Plus, unlicensed plumbers may lack the expertise needed to address your repairs—leading to subpar work, improper installations, and even code violations.
Luckily for local homeowners, there are dozens of affordable plumbers in Topeka who are licensed, bonded, and insured. You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg just to have the peace of mind that your home and family (and pipes!) are protected.
Affordable Plumbing Dealbreaker #2: Lack of relevant experience
Hiring a plumber with limited experience or few online reviews is another major red flag worth avoiding. Plumbing requires advanced skills, deep knowledge, and an understanding of local codes and regulations. When you invite an inexperienced plumber into your home solely based on cost, you may wind up with a faulty repair that requires a second (or third, or fifth!) visit just to undo.
When vetting your list of affordable plumbers, always ask about their experience, qualifications, and additional certifications and specialties. Look for plumbers with 100 or more positive reviews, who have operated in the area for a few years or more.
Affordable Plumbing Dealbreaker #3: Improper tools and equipment
The next red flag to ask about when looking for an affordable plumber is the tools and equipment they use to get the job done. An experienced, high-quality plumber will have their own dedicated equipment truck, all the supplies and parts needed to complete hundreds of major repairs in just one trip, and the advanced diagnostic tools (like lights and cameras) needed to get to the root of your repair.
Before you schedule service, ask your plumber if they’ll have the tools and supplies needed to complete your repair in one quick visit. If the answer is no, keep calling!
Affordable Plumbing Dealbreaker #4: Confusing or vague pricing
The last major red flag to avoid is any plumber who is reluctant to provide you with a clear price, timeline, or scope of work. Plumbing can get expensive, especially when your professional bills by the hour with no pre-estimate of work.
If you want to avoid hidden fees, extra charges, or unexpected expenses, ask for a detailed estimate before they start. Get the estimate in writing, be sure it outlines labor and materials, and verify if any additional fees may be required.
Why do homeowners in Topeka choose Blue Dot’s team of affordable (professional!) plumbers again and again?
With our 5-star service and best-in-Topeka parts and labor warranty, you can trust Blue Dot has your back. We work quickly, stand by our repairs, and always leave your home better than we found it. Because we believe quality can be affordable, and any repair with doing is worth doing right! Call 785-272-1633 or request service.
Back to BlogOur licensed plumbers, electricians, HVAC experts, and friendly team always answer the call. You can schedule service online or ask a question using the contact form below or by calling 785-272-1633.
