When a pipe springs a leak or a toilet won’t stop running, it is probably time to call a plumber. In addition to mentioning the problem, you should organize several types of information to explain during the phone call or when the plumbing expert comes to your home for an inspection and possible maintenance or repair.
1. Time.
Reporting the time aspects of a plumbing issue is important in several ways. You should note when the problem began or when it was noticed, how often it occurs unless it is constant, and how long it lasts, if it is on and off. For example, leaky pipes are probably constant, but a belching or gurgling sound might be heard only after flushing the toilet. Similarly, if the problem occurs during a certain time of day or night, it should be mentioned.
2. Location.
Not only should you state where the immediate problem is located, such as the downstairs bathroom toilet overflowing or flooding under the kitchen dishwasher, but try to check for the source of the problem within the visible plumbing structure. You might also look for adjacent areas where related water issues are occurring, for example, a wet spot on the wall that that can be traced to a fragmented drip pattern on the ceiling.
3. Scope.
The scope of the problem includes any areas of the home that are impacted. If you want to report a water pressure problem in one of the showers, do the other showers have the same problem or is it limited to just one? If the basement floor drain is backed up, is the basement toilet also having problems?
4. Effects.
Mention the effects of the water problem, especially if they are interfering with daily activities. For example, if your home has just one toilet and it cannot be used due to a plumbing problem, the plumber should be told that so that an appointment can be quickly scheduled. You may be able to find more resources and insights at the Express Rooter website.
5. Explanation.
In general, explain when and how you noticed the plumbing problem, whether it seems to be localized or systemic throughout the plumbing system, and the degree to which it is impacting household activities. If you aren’t getting enough water pressure to drink tap water, that presents an immediate issue that requires prompt resolution.
Although the plumbing company will send experienced, well-trained technicians to examine the problem area and propose a solution, providing initial information may shorten the time it takes for the problem to be evaluated and addressed. Pay attention to details and take notes if warranted before calling the plumbers for assistance.
