Don’t Get Soaked—Know What to Ask
Plumbing problems are more than just inconvenient—they can disrupt your whole day and lead to costly repairs. Whether it’s a clogged drain, leaky pipe, or water heater malfunction, choosing the right plumber in Burlingame, CA, can make all the difference. But how do you know whom to trust?
The answer lies in the questions you ask. Being prepared with the right ones helps you spot true professionals and avoid shady service providers. Below are the top 10 essential questions to ask before hiring a plumber, along with helpful tips to guide your decision.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
When hiring a plumber in Burlingame, CA, the first thing to ask is about licensing and insurance. This is your foundation for a safe and legitimate plumbing experience.
Why Licensing Matters:
- A licensed plumber has completed the required training and passed California’s CSLB (Contractors State License Board) exam.
- They know local codes, safety regulations, and industry best practices.
- You can look up their license on the CSLB website for verification.
Why Insurance Is Critical:
- Liability insurance protects your property from accidental damage caused by the plumber during repairs.
- Workers’ compensation covers the plumber if they get injured on the job—so you’re not held liable.
What to Ask:
- “Can I see your license and insurance documentation?”
- “Do you have both liability and workers’ comp coverage?”
Pro Tip: Avoid anyone who hesitates to show credentials or gives vague answers. It’s a major red flag.
2. How Long Have You Been in the Plumbing Business?
Experience matters—especially in a city like Burlingame, where many homes have older plumbing systems that require careful handling.
Why It’s Important:
- An experienced plumber has dealt with various issues, from burst pipes to complex installations.
- They’re more likely to troubleshoot efficiently and offer practical solutions on the spot.
- Local experience in Burlingame means they know city regulations, permits, and infrastructure.
What You Can Learn:
- Their track record for similar jobs.
- How they’ve handled unexpected complications in the past.
- Their approach to customer service and job satisfaction
What to Ask:
- “How many years have you been serving Burlingame homes?”
- “What’s the most complicated job you’ve handled?”
3. Do You Specialize in the Type of Work I Need?
Plumbing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many professionals focus on specific areas of the trade.
Areas of Specialization:
- Water Heater Installation/Repair – Not all plumbers work with tankless or solar units.
- Drain Cleaning and Hydrojetting – Some use advanced equipment, while others rely on traditional snaking.
- Sewer Lateral Replacement – Especially common in Burlingame due to aging pipes.
- Emergency Repairs – Some offer 24/7 service while others stick to business hours.
Why It Matters:
- A specialist will complete the job faster and more efficiently.
- They’ll have the right tools and parts on hand.
- They’ll understand nuances that general plumbers might overlook.
What to Ask:
- “Have you done similar jobs in Burlingame homes?”
- “Do you carry the tools and parts needed for this specific issue?”
4. Can You Provide References or Reviews?
A reputable plumber will happily connect you with past clients or point you to verified reviews online.
What References Can Tell You:
- If the plumber showed up on time.
- Whether they completed the job as promised.
- How they handled follow-up requests or problems.
What to Look For:
- Reviews that mention honesty, professionalism, and timeliness.
- Specific mentions of work done in Burlingame or nearby areas.
- Any recurring issues, like poor communication or unexpected charges.
What to Ask:
- “Can I speak with one or two recent customers?”
- “Where can I read honest reviews about your services?”
Bonus: Yelp and Google are great for reviews but don’t underestimate word-of-mouth. Ask neighbors or community groups for plumber recommendations.
5. What’s Included in the Estimate?
A vague estimate can become an expensive surprise once the job’s underway.
What a Detailed Estimate Should Include:
- Labor costs (hourly or flat rate).
- Materials and parts, including brand and quality.
- Permit fees, if applicable.
- Cleanup charges post-job.
- Potential additional costs in case issues are found mid-repair.
Why This Is Important:
- Keeps everyone on the same page about costs.
- Helps compare quotes from different plumbers fairly.
- Avoids hidden fees or “gotchas” after work begins.
What to Ask:
- “Can I get a detailed, written estimate?”
- “Are there any possible extra charges I should know about?”
6. Do You Guarantee Your Work?
Good plumbers stand behind their work with warranties and satisfaction guarantees.
What to Look For:
- Workmanship warranties covering labor.
- Manufacturer warranties on parts used.
- Service guarantees, such as free fixes for recurring issues.
Why It Matters:
- Shows confidence in their work.
- Protects your investment.
- Encourages accountability.
What to Ask:
- “Do you offer any warranties? How long do they last?”
- “Is the guarantee in writing?”
Note: Always read the fine print and keep documentation for future reference.
7. Will You Handle the Required Permits and Inspections?
The city may require permits and follow-up inspections for major jobs like water heater replacement, sewer work, or repiping.
Why It Matters:
- Ensures the work complies with local Burlingame building codes.
- Prevents fines or issues when selling your home.
- Gives you peace of mind that the work was done right
What to Ask:
- “Is a permit needed for this job?”
- “Will you apply for it on my behalf?”
- “Will you be present for city inspections?”
8. Who Will Be Doing the Work?
Some companies send subcontractors, apprentices, or assistants instead of licensed professionals.
Why You Should Know:
- You’re paying for expertise, not for a trainee.
- The quality of work can vary between team members.
- You should feel safe with whoever enters your home.
What to Ask:
- “Will you be doing the work personally?”
- “If not, can I meet the team ahead of time?”
- “Are all technicians fully licensed?”
9. What’s the Expected Timeline for Completion?
You don’t want your home turned into a construction site for weeks.
What to Clarify:
- Start and finish dates.
- Daily work hours.
- Contingency plans for delays or backorders.
What to Ask:
- “How long will this job take from start to finish?”
- “What could cause delays?”
- “Will you be working on other jobs at the same time?”
Realistic timelines show good planning and respect for your time.
10. How Do You Handle Emergencies or Follow-Up Issues?
Even after a job seems finished, problems can arise.
Emergency Situations:
- Burst pipes
- Backed-up sewer lines
- Water heater malfunctions
Follow-Up Concerns:
- Leaks reappearing
- Low water pressure
- Strange sounds from pipes
What to Ask:
- “Do you offer 24/7 emergency plumbing?”
- “What’s your response time for urgent calls?”
- “If a problem comes back, will you fix it for free?”
Knowing your plumber offers support after the invoice is paid provides peace of mind.
Be Proactive When Choosing a Plumber
Choosing the right plumber isn’t just about price but peace of mind. By asking the right questions and doing homework, you can avoid unnecessary stress and protect your home and budget.
Whether dealing with a plumbing emergency or planning a home renovation in Burlingame, being proactive in your hiring process ensures you work with someone professional, experienced, and trustworthy. Don’t rush the decision; a little research today can save you from major headaches tomorrow.
Burlingame Plumber – JK Plumbing
When you need a plumber you can truly count on in Burlingame, look no further than JK Plumbing! Whether you’re dealing with a clogged drain, a leaky faucet, or a full-blown emergency, our team is ready to step in with fast, reliable service and the highest standards of workmanship.
We bring over 15 years of experience to every project. Our licensed professionals specialize in everything from water heater repair and installation to lateral sewer replacement, drain cleaning, and hydrojetting. We take pride in providing the kind of service that keeps our customers returning—and referring us to their friends and neighbors.
Need help right now? Call us today at (415) 359-4588. Whether it’s an urgent situation or a routine upgrade, we’re here to help!
FAQs About Hiring a Plumber in Burlingame, CA
How do I know if I need a plumber or if it’s a DIY fix?
If you’re facing basic plumbing issues like a slow-draining sink or a minor faucet leak, you can handle them independently. But it’s best to call a reliable plumber for more complex or recurring problems, like low water pressure, strange pipe noises, or a backup in your sewer line.
DIY fixes can temporarily mask plumbing issues, but without proper knowledge, you risk:
- Making the problem worse
- Causing water damage or property damage
- Voiding warranties on plumbing components
If you’re unsure, schedule an inspection. Getting a small issue professionally resolved is better than letting it snowball into a bigger, costlier repair.
What’s the difference between residential and commercial plumbing?
The biggest differences are the scale, complexity, and type of property involved. A residential plumber works primarily in homes, focusing on systems like toilets, sinks, water heaters, and standard water supply lines.
In contrast, commercial plumbing involves:
- Larger water systems with greater volume and pressure
- Code compliance for multi-story buildings
- Specialized equipment and industrial fixtures
While many plumbers offer various services, not all are qualified to handle both. Always confirm the plumber’s experience with your specific property type before hiring.
Do plumbers work after hours for emergencies?
Yes, many offer emergency services outside of regular business hours, especially for urgent issues like:
- Burst pipes
- Overflowing toilets
- Sudden loss of water supply
- Sewer line backups
When you’re facing a plumbing emergency, time matters. Waiting too long can lead to extensive water damage or mold growth.
Before hiring, ask:
- “Do you offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services?”
- “How quickly can someone respond after hours?”
Not all plumbers provide after-hours service, so it’s best to find one who does—before you need it.
How often should I schedule routine plumbing maintenance?
Most professionals recommend scheduling routine maintenance once a year to keep everything running smoothly. This proactive approach helps prevent minor plumbing tasks from becoming major repairs and ensures your water systems function properly.
Maintenance usually includes:
- Checking for leaks or corrosion
- Inspecting water pressure and flow
- Cleaning drains and pipes
- Flushing water heaters
It’s especially important for older homes in Burlingame that may have aging infrastructure. Regular checkups by experienced professionals can extend the lifespan of your system, improve efficiency, and reduce your water bill.
Can I get an estimate before any work begins?
Yes, and you should. A reputable plumber will always provide a written estimate before starting any plumbing job. This estimate should detail the following:
- Labor and material costs
- Scope of the project
- Any additional fees for permits or emergency visits
- Estimated time to complete the job
Getting a clear estimate upfront protects you from costly mistakes or hidden charges. It’s also a good way to compare services and ensure you get quality service at a fair price.
Always ask for transparency—it’s one of the key signs of a trustworthy plumber.