There are some plumbing tasks that a competent handyman can carry out relatively safely, such as changing taps or a shower head (provided you remember to turn the water off first). For other tasks, such as anything involving your hot water or heating, you need a qualified, experienced professional.
Check CIPHE Registration
Always use a plumbing company who are registered with the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE). You can check whether a Qualified plumber in Orange County you are planning to use is registered, by using the CIPHE website, which you can also use to search by postcode for plumbing services in your area.
Seek Recommendations and Check Testimonials
Ask friends and family for recommended tradesmen they have used, and don’t be afraid to ask your potential plumber in Orange County for testimonials from previous satisfied customers. Check your plumber is qualified and experienced in the work you are asking them to do and always ask for a written quotation up front before work commences.
Is it Really That Dangerous to Hire an Inexperienced Plumber or try to do Work Myself?
In 2010, a plumber was charged with the manslaughter of a 26 year old woman who died of poisoning by carbon monoxide in her flat. Orange County Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning who hired the plumber were charged with breach of the Health and Safety Act 1974 and the plumber himself faced charges under the Gas Safety Regulations 1998. This is just one example of what can go wrong when an inexperienced plumber attempts plumbing and heating installation.
Property Damage
As well as illness and death, poorly installed plumbing can cause expensive damage to your home. If iron and copper pipes are connected wrongly, a chemical reaction occurs that will eventually lead to your pipes rotting and leaking water causing rot, flooding, mould and damage to the structure of your house.
Disease and Death
Deadly bacteria and viruses can enter the water supply of a property via plumbing mistakes such as improperly installed cross-connections or back-siphonage. These organisms can cause diarrhoea and sickness. Carbon Monoxide poisoning is common worldwide and can be caused by an inexperienced, unqualified plumber. If gas from sewers (Hydrogen Sulphide gas) gets into your home, it can cause sickness and even death in extreme cases. Plumbers who fail to adequately ventilate the home and don’t pay attention to safety regulations could put you at risk.
Don’t Leave it to Chance
Always hire a qualified, experienced plumber who is registered with the relevant organisations, and can provide testimonials from previous satisfied customers. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions about their level of experience and go with your gut instinct – choosing an inexperienced plumber could cost you money and even your life.
