Technology that allows an experienced leak specialist to isolate the area of a leak can save an average consumer hundreds of dollars in needless hit and miss digging. Unfortunately, many consumers still have to bear costs associated with search and destroy methods when they call service men that have no modern leak detection equipment or no modern leak detection skills. To avoid needless damage to your property and other unnecessary costs, here are some things you should look for when choosing a leak detection company:
- Experience and Resources. We suggest that you determine what kind of experience the firm has in leak detection. How many years have they been in business as a leak detection company? Are they associated with any organization that provides continuing research and development regarding leak detection technology and techniques? What is the ‘depth’ of the organization-what if the guy you are talking to can’t find your leak, is there another level to go to for a ‘troubleshooter’? Is there a real ‘business operation’ or is the company one guy with an answering machine and a cellular phone who may or may not choose to call you back if there’s a problem?
- Guarantee. What if they cannot find the leak? What if they mark the leak in the wrong place? Will they stand by their work and come back? In the business where leaks are mostly concealed, a guarantee is truly comforting.
- Flat Rate Pricing. An efficient leak detection firm will provide a flat rate price for most residential jobs. This means that whether it takes one hour or five hours or even multiple trips to find your leak, they will charge the same rate. Conversely, an hourly rate scenario with an inexperienced technician can set you up for a very large invoice.
- Licensed-Bonded-Insured. Check with your County Contractors Licensing Bureau to confirm that the company is licensed to work in your County. Consider whether they have a Contractors license or just an occupational license. Have you confirmed that the company is bonded? Can they provide you with a certificate of insurance for both workers compensation and liability insurance and are the dollar limits adequate to protect you and your assets?
- Equipment. Make sure the company you choose uses modern electronic leak detection instruments. Simply placing an ear or stethoscope to the floor just does not cut it today.
- Referral. Be sure to contact your insurance company if you believe you have a leak in your home. Many insurance companies have a leak detection specialist they trust and have relied on for many of their claims. Also, there is a chance your insurance company will pay for the leak detection charges. Another good source of information for an experienced specialist is your property management company.
In the unfortunate event that you experience a leak problem, it can be critical to both your pocketbook and your long-term property value that you take the right steps to solve your problem. No one wants to pay excessive fees or incur the property damage that results from having the wrong people on the job.
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Tags: experience, leak detection specialist, plumber, plumbing leak, property damage, water leak
