Looking for a plumber

[8gv]

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.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by 8gv

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.

[John Mercier]

I believe that it will be the coming thing.

[Biggd]

Originally Posted by John Mercier

I believe that it will be the coming thing.

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

[WinnisquamZ]

Originally Posted by Biggd

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.

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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[Descant]

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.

[TiltonBB]

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.

[John Mercier]

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

[Biggd]

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.
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".

[ishoot308]

Originally Posted by 8gv

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.

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