Selecting the right plumbing services is one of the most critical decisions a strata council can make. Having reliable and skilled tradespeople available to tackle leaks, clogs, and other common issues can save property managers countless headaches. When an emergency strikes, quick response times and quality artistry also help minimize disruptions and damage for residents.
So, how should strata councils find the best plumbing services? This guide covers the key factors to consider and questions to ask as you evaluate options.
Understanding Your Plumbing System and Common Problem Areas
Before reaching out to plumbing companies, take time to review your building’s infrastructure and maintenance history. This will help you describe any trouble spots or frequent call-outs when meeting potential new vendors.
Some common problem areas in multi-unit dwellings include:
Blocked Drains
Make note if specific stacks, vents, or floors tend to clog more easily. Identifying whether the issue is linked to roots, grease build-up, or pipe alignment can help target preventative maintenance.
Leaky Fixtures
Do toilets, sinks or other fixtures leak or run constantly despite repairs? This may indicate more significant issues like failing shut-off valves, outdated piping, or high water pressure.
Boiler/Hot Water Performance
Document areas where hot water circulation, pressure, or delivery have become problematic. Are there sections of the building that struggle to get hot water quickly?
By flagging these priorities early on, you can find a plumber capable of handling your unique trouble areas.
Essential Credentials and Experience to Look For
Plumbing is a heavily regulated trade with licensing requirements varying by region. When comparing providers, check that candidates meet your local qualifications and carry all mandated insurance policies. Common credentials include:
State/Provincial License
In most areas, plumbers must meet experience thresholds, pass exams, and renew a license periodically to operate legally. Review licensing details closely rather than assuming.
Trade Association Membership
Many reputable plumbing professionals also belong to industry groups like the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA). These memberships signify ongoing training and peer connections.
Multi-Unit and Commercial Experience
Working in large buildings involves unique complexities like accessing tricky spots, coordinating with property managers, and solving atypical layout issues. Seek out companies with a proven background serving strata and commercial clients.
Key Questions to Ask Prospective Plumbing Services
Sitting down early on to interview candidates can clarify which providers make sense for an ongoing service partnership. Key questions to ask include:
What Hours Are You Available for Emergency Calls?
Even basic information like emergency response availability helps set expectations. Given the critical nature of plumbing issues, many strata councils hope for 24/7 call availability.
How Do You Approach Preventative Maintenance?
Quality vendors should outline processes for tackling minor repairs early, mapping out systems, and addressing vulnerabilities before problems escalate. Understand their philosophy.
How is Work Documented and Reported Back to Strata Councils?
Ask to see examples of past work orders, parts invoices, leak investigation forms, and other docs that may be supplied after calls. Vetting documentation helps identify the most organized partners.
What Types of Plumbing Issues Do You Handle Directly?
Some plumbers subcontract certain repairs, like slab leaks or boiler overhauls, to specialist contractors. Ask about these relationships and capabilities upfront.
Do You Carry the Appropriate Licensing and Insurance?
Take a few minutes to verify candidates have active insurance policies that meet local requirements. Get caught with the necessary liability coverage down the line.
Using this questionnaire approach with plumbing services under consideration, strata councils can better understand competencies and communication styles before signing longer-term service agreements. Contractors who answer thoroughly while providing examples of expertise with large properties make ideal partners.
Moving Forward with the Best Plumbing Services
Ultimately, no universal formula guarantees harmonious relationships between strata corporations and their preferred trade contractors. But asking the right questions during procurement, documenting histories clearly for vendors, and ultimately choosing qualified local professionals with strong references helps enormously.
Be bold about calling references yourself and verifying critical details. The lowest bid estimate rarely equates to the best service over years of water leaks, drain cleanings, and component replacements. Spend time upfront finding the best strata plumbing services for the long haul. Your residents and fellow council members will thank you during the inevitable overnight emergency!