Looking for a plumber
 

My daughter and boyfriend are buying a house in Franklin and need a new water heater installed.
Any suggestions welcome.

I could be wrong, but I think Lowe's and Home Depot will make arrangements for installations of their hot water heaters. May be worth it to check out at least for a price quote.

I sought a plumber for a new water heater and couldn't get anyone but Rowell's to show interest.

They wanted money up front to just come and quote the job.

I heat my house and water with propane from Dead River so I had them supply and install my new water heater.

My only complaint was the cost.

I've been hearing this a lot lately, contractors charging money up front before they will even come out for a quote?
My, how times have changed in ten years. :(

I believe that it will be the coming thing.

Rowell’s
 

Must be something very new as I have been using Rowell’s Services for years and was never asked for upfront money. I have always found Rowells to be reasonable and very professional.

Dan

Until the economy goes in the tank, and they are begging for work.
It will happen again; we just don't know when.

All are still very busy. Some are scheduled out into 26’. Free estimates and bidding are going by way of the horse and buggy as many of have said in the past. My advice is to identify who is supplying the fuel and boiler service and start there.


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This is a good time to start establishing relationships with local trades. I agree, start with whoever worked on the system before. While he's there (she?) start a conversation about who else does retail residential repairs, carpenter, electrician, etc. A good relationship with one will go far when you need somebody else. Whoever answers the phone is also a great place to start schmoozing. This person is your "first responder", can schedule you tomorrow or next November.

You could try calling Granite Group and FWWebb, both are plumbing supply stores in Gilford. They may recommend a plumber who might be interested. Or, they might laugh when you ask the question.

I don't think it is a lack of interest... just a lack of time.

My neighbor here in Ma told me yesterday that he's trying to get a fence installed and was told by many fence contractors that he would have to pay them for an estimate. Even his landscaper wanted a deposit before he would come out for an estimate. :eek:
He did get one to come out for free, but their estimate was outrageous, $100 per ft, $22K for a plastic 4' picket fence around the front yard.
I saw a sign on a business the other day, "Now hiring, someone that will show up".

Trade Contractors
 

I have lived here for 25 years and I called on many trades people in the last several. Unless you are moneybags from away, they wont even consider a call for service anymore. I try to use small shops and hope for some loyalty. Hasn't always worked lately. In the Sandwich area there is a new plumbing business, CMK Plumbing and Heating. I have not used his service "yet", but definitely will the next time I need a plumber. I have known this guy since he was in high school with my daughter. He has been with a contractor for most of his years and has now gone solo. You can see him on facebook or email at
[email protected]

Plumber Referrals
 

Here's a few Plumber referrals....

Small Plumbing Jobs
John Ferguson Plumbing and Heating
He can do Hot Water Heaters
603-524-3138
OR
Penco Plumbing... 603-293-7157 Gilford, Big in Lakes Region

Laconia Residential HVAC & Furnace
(603)-366-2662

Porter Heating & A/C, Laconia
603-366-2662

‘Gas Plumbers’
Nathan Luce 603-556-4614
Master Plumber & Gas License

I'd start at the top of the list and work down. Hope this helps.....

I was born here, and get them when I need them.
Relationships are very important to us locally.

Rowell's
 

I found them expensive and they do not carry the brands I like. Rowell is great if you need quick service.

FW Webb is Gilford, recommended Gunstock HVAC to install and maintain my condensing boiler with on-demand hot water. I highly recommend them if you are not in a hurry. He installs all brands and installation is thousands less than Rowell.