Here’s the thing about your plumbing: It doesn’t care, at all, about what’s happening in the world. So the reality that you’re dealing with a global health crisis? It simply doesn’t care.

But at R.C. Gochenour and Son Plumbing, we do.

We get that many of you are trying to navigate working from home while also trying to figure out why your kids don’t know what “carry the 1” means. We understand some of you have been laid off—or you’re afraid that news is coming sooner than later. We know you’re worried about your loved ones and their health. Things feel really heavy right now. Please know we’re pulling for you.

We wanted to offer some tangible help, so we’ve put together a list of things to think about if you need to hire a plumber in the coming weeks. We know it’s no fun to imagine dealing with a burst pipe or sewer back-up right now—but we want you to feel prepared if something happens.  

4 Ways to Vet a Harrisonburg Plumber During COVID-19

Obviously, bringing a stranger into your home during a global pandemic isn’t ideal. But if you suspect (or you’re certain) you have trouble brewing, don’t hesitate to call in a professional Harrisonburg plumber. But first, be sure to vet your options.

#1 Ask what additional precautions they’re taking due to coronavirus.

Good plumbers are serious about cleanliness. But now, more than ever, they should be able to give clear and specific answers to the following questions:

• What procedures do you have in place to monitor your team members’ health? And at what point do you forbid them from coming to work?
• Has anyone on your team tested positive for coronavirus—or complained of flu-like symptoms—in the past 14 days? 
• In the last two weeks, has anyone on your team had close contact with someone who’s tested positive for the virus (or has been presumed positive)?
• What sanitation procedures do you have in place for your supplies and equipment? 
• Do you provide your team with sanitizing wipes, gloves, eye protection, and masks?
• When you arrive at my home, what can I expect in terms of hand-washing and so on?
• Can I pay you over the phone so I can avoid contact with you or your mobile device?

#2 Make sure they’re a licensed Harrisonburg plumber.

Hiring a licensed plumber is important no matter what’s happening in the world. After all, unlicensed home services contractors can make costly mistakes that put your biggest investment—your home—in jeopardy. And that’s pretty much the last thing you need right now, isn’t it? 

Yes, unlicensed plumbers typically charge less than a licensed shop, and it’s tempting to save a little money right now. Or maybe you have a handyman friend or family member who’s been financially affected by the pandemic, and you want to hire them to help them out. That’s kind and gracious of you—but please consider finding another way to lend a hand. It’s just not worth the risk. 

Hire a licensed plumber so you can have peace of mind that your job will be done right the first time.

#3 Check their online reviews.

All plumbers will tell you how good they are. Don’t just take their word for it. Instead, check their Google and Facebook reviews to see if other homeowners have had good experiences with them. You’re looking for a company with a reputation for fair prices, exceptional service, and honesty. 

Unfortunately, plenty of home services companies will be using COVID-19 as an excuse to take advantage of people in crisis. Vetting plumbers by checking their reviews will help you avoid getting ripped off.

#4 Find out if they give back to your community.

Plumbing companies that are doing good in our community actually care about families like yours. That also means they’re more than likely honest folks who are doing everything they can to keep their customers safe. Plus, it’s awesome to “reward” generous businesses by supporting them when times are tough.

How can we serve you? 

We genuinely hope you don’t need a Harrisonburg plumber until this coronavirus thing is a “remember when.” But if something happens, we’re ready to serve you—honestly and with an abundance of caution. In the meantime, stay safe, stay healthy… and stay home.