Plumbing problems can be really frustrating like when you have a faucet that just will not stop dripping.. They can be super serious like when you have a pipe that bursts or your sewer backs up. When something like this happens a lot of homeowners are not sure what to do. They wonder if they should hire a plumber or just a handyman. The answer to this question depends on how complicated the problems if it is safe and if the fix will last.

Understanding the difference between a plumber and a handyman is important.

A licensed plumber is someone who has gone to school, done an apprenticeship and gotten certified. They are allowed to work on plumbing systems, follow the rules and get the necessary permits. Plumbers know how to find problems that’re deep in the system, fix water lines, put in new fixtures the right way and make sure everything is safe.

A handyman on the hand is someone who can do a lot of different small jobs around the house. They might be good at fixing plumbing problems like a leaky tap or a clogged drain.. They are not always licensed or trained to work on complicated plumbing systems or to make sure everything is up to code.

When a handyman might be enough

If you have a plumbing problem that is not too complicated, hiring a handyman might be a good idea. It can be cheaper. They can often fix the problem quickly. This could be something like a leak in a faucet, a loose pipe or a toilet that is running all the time. These kinds of problems usually do not need a permit or special tools.

Even for these small problems you need to make sure the handyman has experience with plumbing. If they do not do the job right it could lead to problems later.

When you should hire a plumber

If the problem is with your main plumbing system you should always hire a licensed plumber. They are safer and more reliable. Plumbing systems are all connected, so if something goes wrong in one place it can affect the system. It could even cause damage to your house.

You should hire a plumber for problems like burst pipes, low water pressure, sewer line problems or if you need to install or fix a water heater. You should also hire a plumber if the job needs a permit or an inspection. They will make sure the work is done to code, which’s important if you plan to sell your house someday.

Licensed plumbers are also better at figuring out what is really wrong. They do not just fix the symptoms they find the root of the problem. This can help prevent problems from happening and save you money in the long run.

Safety and long-term cost considerations

Hiring a handyman might seem cheaper at first. It can end up costing more if the job is not done right. If the plumbing is not fixed correctly it can lead to water damage, mold and more problems.

Licensed plumbers might charge more. Their work is usually better and they are accountable. Many of them also give warranties, which can give you peace of mind.

Safety is also important. Plumbing systems can be dangerous with water pressure and gas lines. If something goes wrong it can be serious. A licensed plumber knows how to handle these risks.

How to decide what’s right for your situation

When you are trying to decide between a plumber and a handyman ask yourself a question. How serious is the problem? Is it part of your plumbing system? Could a mistake cause a lot of damage? If the answer to any of these questions is yes you should hire a plumber.

For problems a handyman might be fine.. For anything bigger you should get a professional plumber. It is worth the money to know the job will be done right.

Choosing between a plumber and a handyman depends on how complicated and serious your plumbing problem is. Handymen are good for repairs but licensed plumbers are necessary for bigger, more complicated jobs. If you make the choice you can be sure the problem will be fixed and your house will be safe.

Gordon Family Plumbing

If you have a plumbing problem Gordon Family Plumbing can help. They are reliable and licensed. They can fix anything from small problems to big ones.