Whether it's that annoying drip, drip, drip of the kitchen faucet or a stopped up toilet, odds are there is going to be a Calgary plumber in your immediate future. The question is, do you know how to pick one that's best suited for your needs?

You can start your search right here at Handy Canadian. Our directory of Calgary plumbers provides you with great snapshot information like service area, service descriptions, license information, links to their websites, contact info and even reviews from previous customers. While the directory is a great place to start there are a few steps you should take to ensure that your plumbing needs are handled in a professional, efficient and timely manner.

Different plumbing problems = Different plumbing licenses

The city of Calgary requires that all plumbers have one of two types of licenses, a plumber's license or a plumbing contractor license. They sound the same but there are two big differences between them.

For starters a plumbing contractor has to demonstrate that he or she has held a plumber's license for at least two years and must pass a test on advanced plumbing techniques. If your project requires any work that involves the external water supply (Calgary city water line) then you must use a plumber who holds a plumbing contractor license.

Aside from their ability to connect with the external water supply there are practical differences that plumbing contractors bring to the table. Typically these plumbers work on projects not specific problems. As a result they usually have a wider array of specialized tools and equipment, workers with specialized skills and greater project experience than the plumber who holds only a plumber's license.

So, do you need a plumber or a plumbing contractor? Ask yourself these questions:

• Will your plumbing renovation take longer than a day to complete?
• Will your plumbing project require connecting to the Calgary water line?
• Will heavy equipment or major piping be involved?
• Will your project require a permit?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions you need a plumbing contractor.

For everyday plumbing problems

Plumbers doing business in Calgary have to take a test to be issued a plumber's license. This sounds like a pretty simple process but most plumbers go through an extensive apprenticeship program before they take a plumbing test.

Because major plumbing renovations usually involve connecting to the external water line, plumbers often restrict their business to specific problems like leaks, clogs and replacing plumbing hardware. If you have a plumbing emergency, and you know you're going to have one sooner or later, you'll probably be calling on a plumber with a plumber's license.

Know your plumber
The biggest deal maker or deal breaker in the plumbing business is not cost but reputation. You want to know the plumber you select. The references you receive from the plumber will probably all be great but check them anyhow. A previous customer may now be experiencing “buyer's regret.” Check the Better Business Bureau for unresolved complaints and Google the plumber's name + complaints.

Don't sign a contract without evidence that the plumber or plumbing contractor has the proper license and adequate insurance.

By doing a careful review of the plumber you select you greatly increase the chances of being totally satisfied. Plumbing problems can be pesky because of our everyday need for water. But once fixed you can take a break and enjoy all the things that Calgary has to offer.

Take in a Flames or Stampeders game. Go visit the Calgary Zoo. Have you been to the top of the Calgary Tower? Calgary is not only Canada's sunniest city but according to Forbes it's the cleanest city in the world. We're lucky to live in Calgary and we're lucky to have such a talented and diverse group of service providers to help us enjoy it.

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