What to Consider When Hiring a Plumbing Contractor

Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, planning a bathroom renovation, or facing a plumbing emergency, choosing the right plumbing contractor can make all the difference. A qualified, experienced, and reliable plumber ensures your project is completed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with local building codes. On the other hand, hiring the wrong contractor can lead to delays, damage, and costly repairs down the road.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most important factors to consider when hiring a plumbing contractor in Toronto or the surrounding area. From licensing and insurance to pricing, reviews, and guarantees, these tips will help you make a confident and informed decision.

1. Licensing and Certification

First and foremost, ensure the plumbing contractor is fully licensed to operate in your region. In Ontario, plumbers must be certified by the Ontario College of Trades and carry a valid Certificate of Qualification.

Hiring a licensed plumbing contractor means:

• They’ve completed proper training and apprenticeship
• They understand local building codes and safety regulations
• Their work is subject to inspections and professional standards

You can ask for a license number or verify credentials online through provincial or municipal directories. Don’t take a contractor’s word for it—check their certification before signing a contract.

2. Proof of Insurance

A reputable plumbing contractor should have both liability insurance and WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage for their employees. Insurance protects both you and the contractor in case of:

• Accidental damage to your property
• Injuries on the job site
• Legal or financial disputes

If a plumber lacks insurance and something goes wrong, you could be held financially responsible. Always request proof of insurance before hiring any contractor.

3. Experience and Specialization

Not all plumbing contractors offer the same level of experience or skill. Some specialize in new home construction, while others focus on renovations or emergency repairs. Before hiring a plumber, ask:

• How many years have they been in business?
• Do they have experience with your specific type of project?
• Can they provide examples of similar work?

For example, if you’re planning a full bathroom renovation, you’ll want a contractor who understands fixture relocation, waterproofing, and drainage upgrades—not just someone who handles minor repairs.

4. Transparent Pricing and Written Estimates

Clear and honest pricing is one of the most important aspects of a good plumbing contractor. Ask for a detailed written estimate that includes:

• Labour costs
• Materials and parts
• Project timeline
• Potential extra charges (e.g., emergency fees, permits)

Avoid vague quotes or contractors who won’t put things in writing. Also, be cautious of bids that are significantly lower than others—you might end up paying more later due to poor workmanship or hidden costs.

5. Customer Reviews and Testimonials

One of the best ways to gauge a plumber’s reliability is by reading online reviews or asking for client references. Check trusted platforms such as:

• Google Reviews
• HomeStars
• Yelp
• Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Look for comments about punctuality, professionalism, communication, and overall satisfaction. A consistent history of positive feedback is a good sign of a trustworthy plumbing contractor.

6. Availability and Responsiveness

Plumbing issues don’t always occur during business hours. That’s why it’s important to hire a contractor who offers flexible scheduling and can handle emergency service calls, especially in critical situations like:

• Burst pipes
• Sewer backups
• No hot water
• Flooded basements

Ask how quickly they can respond to emergencies and whether they offer same-day or 24/7 service. A responsive contractor shows they value customer care and are prepared for urgent repairs.

7. Guarantees and Warranties

Reliable plumbing contractors should stand behind their work with written warranties. Ask if they offer guarantees for:

• Workmanship
• Replacement parts or fixtures
• Leak protection or future issues

A strong warranty gives you peace of mind and shows that the contractor is confident in the quality of their service.

8. Communication and Professionalism

When hiring a plumbing contractor, pay attention to how they communicate during your initial interactions. Are they respectful, responsive, and willing to answer your questions? Do they explain your options clearly and make recommendations based on your budget and goals?

Good contractors don’t just fix pipes—they build trust and relationships with their clients. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that the work gets done right the first time.

9. Local Knowledge and Code Compliance

Hiring a local contractor means they are familiar with municipal regulations, permitting requirements, and building codes in your area. This is especially important in cities like Toronto, where plumbing systems must comply with Ontario Plumbing Code and city-specific bylaws.

A local contractor will also know the typical challenges of older homes, seasonal weather impacts, and common materials used in local construction.

10. Ask Questions Before Signing a Contract

Before you commit, don’t hesitate to ask important questions like:

• Who will be performing the work—licensed staff or subcontractors?
• What is the estimated project timeline?
• Are permits required, and who obtains them?
• How will changes or additional costs be handled?
• Do you clean up after the job is completed?

A professional plumbing contractor should answer these questions without hesitation and be willing to provide documentation for everything discussed.

Why Hire POM Plumbing?

At POM Plumbing, we take pride in being a fully licensed and insured plumbing company serving Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. With over 15 years of experience, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners and businesses with everything from drain cleaning and leak repair to full plumbing system installations.

When you hire us, you get:

• Transparent pricing and upfront quotes
• Certified and background-checked technicians
• Prompt, same-day service (including emergencies)
• Written warranties for peace of mind
• Friendly, honest, and expert communication every step of the way

Whether you’re tackling a big renovation or need a fast response to a burst pipe, POM Plumbing is here to help.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a plumbing contractor is a decision that should be made with care. By considering factors like licensing, insurance, experience, pricing, and communication, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your plumbing project is handled professionally.

Don’t rush the process. Take time to research, compare options, and ask the right questions. When you choose the right contractor, you protect your home, your budget, and your peace of mind.