 | Secret password for hiring a plumber? |
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Question: What is it with plumbers? I need a short list of plumbing jobs done, varying in difficulty level from "I could do it, but I'd rather not", to "WAY beyond my skills". Plumber 1: Gave estimate of $1500.00, and about 6 hours of work. Said his rate was $60 per hour, and materials for the work are around $100. For purposes of discussion, I did the math allowing for 10 hours (because you never know), and questioned why the estimate was twice as much as likely. He said "That's just what it costs. Let me know if you want to do it". Plumber 2: Highly recommended by a number of people. Never showed up to look at what needed to be done, even though I work at home and could've accomodated his visit ANY TIME that was convenient for him. Plumber 3: Another referral. Stopped by (mid-July), looked at what needed to be done. I told him that I needed an estimate not because I was price shopping (because I'm really not), but so that I could budget the work, and know whether to do it in pieces, or all at once. Said he understood, said he'd call back with prices, never called back. His assistant keeps saying he will, but it's August 26th and...... Anyway, are we all in the wrong business? Do these guys really have so much work that they can be this way with potential customers?
Answer: It seems the whole small contractor thing , the one man shop,the I'll be right out guy. Has turned into a business of flakes. If it's a matter of not wanting to do little jobs, why bother going out to look. Some of those small jobs are a pain in the ass, bid them to be a pain. They are the kind of guys that want to work until they get a job.
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