The right man for the job

The problem is that there are so many service providers around and all of them are not honest or even good at what they do. The trick is to find someone who can do the job at an affordable rate and with no after troubles guaranteed.

But how does one go about finding the best service provider or contractor for the job?

Here are a few things you should keep in mind when looking for the right man to take care of your domestic troubles:

Word of mouth: Sometimes it is better to make use of service providers that has been recommended by someone you know and trust – and who’s work you have actually seen for yourself. Remember that advertisements and websites are there to create a certain expectation, which will not necessarily be delivered. It would also be a good idea to find out if the person being referred is a general contractor with his own team, or whether individual trades people were used. A small job may just require one person, not a full team.

Ask the experts: It might be a good idea to ask suppliers of certain items like bathroom accessories, geysers, building material, electrical supplies etc. who they would recommend for the job, if they do not offer this service themselves. They would only recommend someone they would like to be associated with and this is a safe choice.

Evidential support: It is better to insist to see the person’s work. If it is a building contractor you are looking for, go visit recent and old buildings that they were involved with, so you can determine the quality of their service. If you need an electrician, go and have a look at how he did his installations and ask clients about their experience.

Proper qualifications: Electricians, carpenters, builders etc. must have proper qualifications to be able to provide a service to you. It is your right to insist on knowing whether your service provider is properly qualified to do his job. Your service provider should also be up to date with the rules and legislations with regards to his field of expertise.

Be careful of crooks: Beware of any contractor who arrives at your home and announces a “serious” problem on your property that must be taken care of immediately. Get a second opinion. Most reliable contractors are too busy to go door to door looking for work, or to solicit business by phone. So beware if your contractor is such a person. Also never pay the full amount until the job is finished and you are satisfied. Most service providers do not require a deposit, so beware of those who do.

Characteristics needed for the job

Plumber

A good plumber is essential if you do not wish to have your entire house flooded.

• Fully trained: The plumber you choose should have proper training and a CETA-accredited qualification and national certificate in construction plumbing at NQF / Level 3. Visit www.iopsa.org.za
• Punctual: When the plumber makes an appointment with you for a call out, he must be on time unless stipulated otherwise.
• Trustworthy: There are some people who really take advantage of people. Some might sneak around and even steal personal belongings from you. You should ask for genuine identification and confirm with the agency where you got your plumber if that person on your doorstep is the one they have sent. You must also be able to trust your plumber not to quote for something you really do not need. If the thermostat on the geyser is broken, you do not want a service provider who will want to replace the entire geyser to make an extra buck.
• His rates must be in line with the market – if he is quoting way above the market related rates, steer clear. Someone who charges less, but has a good reputation is a better choice.
• Guarantees are important: Find out if your plumber guarantees his work. There is no use in paying the money now and having the same problems in a month’s time and having to pay again for the same job.

Electrician

This person will come into your home to work with electricity and make it safe for

• Always make sure the person you hire is licensed: This doesn’t mean they can use their plumbing license to do electrical work, or their carpentry license to do plumbing. The license must be specific to the trade. All licenses expire, make sure you check your contractors license to see if it current or expired.
• A good reference and reputation: Most people who have a pleasant interaction with a contractor will happily testify to their experience.
• Guarantees are important: Find out if your electrician guarantees his work. There is no use in paying the money now and having the same problems in a month’s time and having to pay again for the same job.

There are many other service providers / contractors that may cross your path. Also visit:
www.nhbrc.org/search/builders.asp
www.sacontractors.co.za/