Quick Answer
Ironclad Plumbing wrote this script because most homeowners have never called a plumber before or do it so rarely they don’t know what to say or what to listen for. Open this on your phone. Read it word for word when you call. It takes 3 minutes.
Before you dial, know these three things:
- What is happening? (Describe the symptom, not your guess. “Water is pooling under the water heater” not “I think my water heater is broken.”)
- Where in the house?
- Is it actively causing damage right now? (If yes, shut off the water first, then call.)
The script:
“Hi, I need a plumber for [describe problem] at my house in [zip code]. Before I book anything, I have a few quick questions.”
“Do you charge a service call fee?” (Write down the answer.)
“Can you give me a rough idea what this type of job usually costs?” (They can’t be exact without seeing it, but for common jobs they should give you a ballpark.)
“Is the person who comes out the same person who does the work?” (You’re checking for the sales-tech model.)
“Are your techs on commission?” (Straight yes or no.)
“What’s your license number?” (They should give it immediately.)
“Great. I’m getting a couple quotes. Can I get a written estimate when you come out?” (Standard. Any pushback here is a red flag.)
After you hang up, score them:
| Question | Yes = Good | No = Concern |
|---|---|---|
| Did they answer the phone? | +1 | -1 (voicemail) |
| Answered your questions directly? | +1 | -1 (dodged/deflected) |
| Gave you a price ballpark? | +1 | 0 (not always a red flag) |
| Same person diagnoses and does work? | +1 | -1 |
| Not on commission? | +1 | -1 |
| License number given instantly? | +1 | -2 (major red flag) |
| Patient, not rushing you to book? | +1 | -1 |
Do this with 2-3 companies. Highest score wins. Takes 10 minutes total. Saves you from hiring the wrong person.