There are many plumbing companies out there. Although most plumbing companies can handle residential plumbing, they may not be able to repair or maintain commercial plumbing systems. Commercial properties have unique needs. One of these is that they require a plumber immediately if they have a problem with their plumbing.
This is because commercial buildings may have hundreds of customers who depend on their plumbing, while residential plumbing only a few people rely on. Let’s now take a closer look into commercial plumbing.
What is a commercial plumber?
Before we get into the questions you should ask a commercial plumber, let us first look at what sets commercial plumbers apart. The commercial plumber is someone who works with water supply and drainage systems for businesses, public spaces and building complexes. They are responsible to maintain and repair all of these systems. Commercial plumbers require a high level skill set and training due to the unique nature commercial buildings.
What makes commercial plumbing different from residential plumbing?
- Commercial buildings often have more than one level. Gravity has a greater impact on water pipes, drainage, and other fixtures when there are more stories.
- When it comes to plumbing, size is everything. Everything is larger in a commercial property: the building, its water supply, the plumbing equipment, and the problems. This requires special knowledge and skills.
- Commercial properties tend to have higher maintenance standards because a single plumbing problem can affect hundreds of people or disrupt work. Plumbing maintenance contracts are a common feature in commercial buildings. This allows for regular service to prevent bigger problems later.
- Commercial plumbing is regulated. Therefore, commercial plumbers must ensure that their work meets all requirements. Take a restaurant as an example. Poor plumbing can pose a health risk and should be inspected regularly.
- Commercial buildings can suffer more from leaky pipes and inefficient heaters than homes. Think about how much energy and resource is wasted when the plumbing system of a 50-story building isn’t operating efficiently.
What does a commercial plumber do?
Long Beach commercial plumbers can help you maintain, fix, and offer preventive maintenance to your plumbing system. These guys are responsible for fixing public bathrooms and wading into flooded basements. They also repair broken fixtures in schools and check water pumps and heaters.
These skilled workers work odd hours too. Commercial plumbing contractors are often required to work after hours because commercial properties are not occupied during business hours. This is so that they don’t disrupt the daily operations of the business.
Five Questions for Your Commercial Plumber
Five questions you should ask to ensure that you are getting the best commercial plumber service. It’s better to find another commercial plumber if a commercial plumber appears irritated or refuses answers to these questions.
Are you insured and licensed?
There are many things that can go wrong while you’re doing property maintenance or repair. You want to make sure the company you hire is insured and licensed in the event of personal injury or property damage. This ensures that your plumber is knowledgeable about the work they do and is covered for it.
These benefits might be more expensive than paying more upfront for a cheaper company.
Do you charge for estimates?
An estimate might not be the most important thing if you are dealing with a commercial plumbing emergency. However, if you’re getting estimates to decide who you want to hire, it is worth asking if there are any charges. This will help you avoid being surprised by unexpected bills.
Often called “trip fees”, are important to understand before you hire commercial plumbers in Long Beach, CA
Are you charging hourly or flat rates?
The price that commercial plumbers will charge for their services varies by company. You should ensure that you get a quote which includes labor and parts. If you are charged per hour, you should also include the cost of the parts.
Although it may seem small, knowing upfront the price can help you avoid being overcharged for your project.
Long Beach, CA’s licensed commercial plumbers can provide a quote that will be close to what the final cost of your plumbing problem. However, there may be hidden problems which could increase the overall cost. Commercial plumbers in Long Beach, CA can solve your plumbing problems, whether it’s for an inspection, clean-up, or repairs.
Are you able to guarantee your work?
Plumbers may offer a guarantee on their work, and some of the products they use come with warranties. Ask commercial plumbers in Long Beach, CA if they offer a guarantee on their work. Also, inquire about the guarantees on the products used to repair your commercial plumbing system.
Are you using the most recent equipment?
Commercial plumbers need the most up-to-date equipment to do their work efficiently and quickly. This specialized equipment can be expensive, so many plumbers don’t make the investment.
This could lead to the job not being completed according to current standards or it could result in a higher labor cost. Newer equipment can also save plumbers time. To find out the cause of a plumbing problem, they must be able to conduct a sewer inspection.
Trench-less sewer and water line repair should be a specialty. This allows plumbers to replace and repair sewer and water lines without having to dig up your driveway or floors. Make sure you hire the best commercial plumbers to complete the job with the right tools.
Do you offer plumbing maintenance contracts?
Plumber service agreements are a guarantee that commercial properties will be maintained and they provide guaranteed income to contractors – it’s a win-win situation.
Service agreements can help you catch small problems before they become costly and more complicated. This can save you money in the long-term. Service agreements are becoming more popular. These agreements typically involve a fixed annual fee.