Just like the electrical system, you’ll probably have to deal with your home’s plumbing system in a major renovation. Typically, you need to check the water supply pipes, which are connected to your well or water company’s primary source, and the drain-waste-vent pipes, which are used to channel waste to the sewer line. 

Once you’ve decided to move pipes, the next thing to do is to hire plumbers who can handle the job for you. Unless you’re a plumbing expert yourself, moving pipes is something that should be left to the expertise of some experienced plumbers. 

However, finding the best professionals for the project isn’t easy. You have to consider a lot of factors to make sure the job is done smoothly and efficiently.

So, if you’re working with reliable plumbers, here are a few questions to ask them when moving pipes in a renovation: 

What Permits For Plumbing Are Needed For The Project?

Just like other aspects of a home renovation, you might need to comply with some permits before you can proceed with the project. Thus, to avoid legal issues in the future, don’t hesitate to ask the plumbers whether there are permits required for moving pipes and other plumbing works. 

Depending on the state you belong to, it’s essential to get familiar with some of the local plumbing laws in your area. That way, you can plan your plumbing projects properly with ease and without trouble. For example, if you’re living in Virginia, Virginia plumbing follows specific laws when performing major pipeline projects. 

Do You Follow A Specific Timeline For The Completion of The Job? 

Generally, moving pipes can be time-consuming. Depending on the current condition of your plumbing system, the project might take a long time before it’s completed. 

To know what to expect with this kind of job, asking for a specific timeline can be an excellent idea. With your plumbers’ expertise and experience, they can determine how long it’ll take them to finish moving the pipelines. 

When you have an estimated timeline, you’re able to keep track of the progress and identify potential problems that might cause its delay and affect your other home renovation projects. Remember, moving pipes should be done quickly to ensure a continuous supply of water in your home. 

Should You Reuse or Replace Pipes and Other Fittings?

When moving pipelines in a renovation, there might be a tendency that you have to replace the pipes and other fittings, depending on their age and the materials they’re made from. Because of this, talk to your plumbers and ask whether they’ll reuse the pipes and other fittings or replace them entirely. 

Doing so allows you to know the estimated costs in advance, which can help you prepare your budget. 

Are You Licensed and Bonded?

It’s essential to know that moving pipes can be a major plumbing work that only experts can do properly. As such, asking whether your plumbers are licensed and insured makes a lot of sense. 

With the complicacy of the job involved, you should make sure that they’re qualified to perform the task by asking them if they have previous experiences in moving pipes and other related tasks. Remember, if the first plumber you hired is not qualified, you’ll have to call other professionals to fix the problem. Doing so can cost you more money. 

Since moving pipelines is a difficult job to do, check whether the plumbers are bonded or not. When they’re bonded, you can guarantee protection against any damage that may arise in your home. 

Do You Offer A Warranty On Your Work?

As mentioned, moving pipes can be a costly plumbing project that only skilled plumbers can do. Therefore, aside from the bond, it’s crucial to ask whether your plumbers offer any warranty for the job they’ve done. 

Sometimes, there might be some minor repairs that should be done immediately, and knowing if they have a warranty can help you fix the problem. However, make sure to ask if the warranty is only available within a certain amount of time. That way, you’ll know whether the warranty still covers the issue or not. 

How Much Do You Charge?

Of course, different plumbing works come with different charges. Depending on the nature of the project, some plumbers will calculate the costs based on an hourly basis, while others offer a flat rate charge. 

Because of these variations, it’s a good idea to sit with your plumbers and ask how much they charge on moving pipes in a renovation. To come up with an accurate estimate, allow them to inspect your current plumbing system. That way, you’ll understand how their billing system works. 

Conclusion

These are a few essential questions you should ask plumbers when hiring them to move pipes in your home renovation. While you might feel uncomfortable asking some of these inquiries, it’s still essential as it’s intended to protect your plumbing system. 

In case potential plumbers are hesitant to answer your questions, don’t hesitate to walk away and consider other options.