Discovering that there’s a broken pipe somewhere in your house is already so stressful, but you know what’s even more headache-inducing? It’s finding the best plumber who can do the job right and also offers affordable rates! 

I know this problem all too well, but fortunately, after dealing with plumbing problems multiple times, I’ve perfected my process for selecting the plumber I want to book. 

If you’ve found yourself in a plumbing-related dilemma, I feel for you. Here’s my process of finding the best plumbers in Singapore, and I hope it will help you in some way. 

How to Find the Best Plumbers in Singapore

Finding the best plumber in Singapore may seem intimidating at first, but once you have a plan on how to narrow your choices, you’ll be surprised to discover that the process is actually a breeze!

All you need is a computer, phone, or tablet and access to the internet. Friends and family members will also be helpful because they can provide you with guidance if needed. 

Personally, I think this process only takes about a few days or a week, but it’s possible it takes longer than that, especially if you’re doing meticulous and thorough research. (Or if you’re procrastinating on the research, which I’ve been guilty of countless times.)

Ask your friends and family first

Before I delve into the vast world of the internet, my favourite thing to do first is to ask my friends and family for their plumber recommendations. After all, word of mouth marketing is real and powerful, so we might as well take advantage of it!

The great thing about asking for recommendations from loved ones is that it saves me a bit of time and energy. If they provide me with a good number of suggestions, I can choose to skip the next step and simply go straight to researching the plumbers I already have on my list.

Plus, my loved ones can share an extensive review of their recommended plumber. They can tell me how much they paid and what the plumbers were like to work with. 

Use Google Maps and read customer reviews

If no one in your close circle can provide you with recommendations, or maybe you just want more options, then going to Google Maps is your next step. Seriously, Google Maps is such a powerful app; I can’t believe I used to underutilise it before! 

What’s amazing about Google Maps is that it’s so easy to narrow down the options based on your location. You just have to type “plumbers in [your residential area name],” and the results will come in no time. It’s so convenient! 

Even more convenient is the fact that every Google Maps result has reviews available for you to read, and these people usually get super detailed. Some of them also don’t mince words, so if they’re unhappy about the service, they’ll let you know. 

Check the plumber’s qualifications

Let’s say that you already have a list of plumbers that you like. Now, it’s time to research them individually to make sure that they have the proper qualifications and certifications. 

In Singapore, plumbers have to finish secondary school, complete vocational training for plumbing at a reputable institution, and earn a certificate that shows that completion. 

One such institution is the Institute of Technical Education, which offers the ITE Skills Certificate in Residential Plumbing. There’s also the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Academy, which offers a Builder Certificate in Plumbing and Pipefitting. 

In addition to the certificate, you need to look out for their official license from the Public Utilities Board (PUB), which is under the Ministry of Sustainability and Environment (MSE). 

This license ensures that the plumber has at least two years of relevant post-qualification experience and that they were working under the supervision of another licensed plumber during that period. 

Every plumber in Singapore should have their certificates and licenses available on their website. If not, you can always contact them and ask them to show these important documents. If they can’t procure these, then it’s a sign to write them off your list. 

Get multiple quotes from different companies

We’re almost there! Once I’m done researching every plumber on my list, my next step is to ask them for quotes based on a particular plumbing concern. Some companies might require me to meet with their plumbers, while others are okay with a virtual consultation. 

Getting multiple quotes from different plumbing companies is a smart move because you can clearly see the discrepancy in prices. Plus, this step lets you learn if the plumbing company is open to negotiation. 

When you do this step, keep in mind that you don’t have to choose the company with the cheapest rates. Instead, consider other factors as well, such as flexibility (aka, are they open for negotiation?) and other perks included in the service. 

Assess the plumber’s communication and customer service

For some people, the plumbing company’s communication and customer service aren’t that important, but I would disagree. After all, what if I need to report an issue? It will be such a pain if the plumbers don’t respond to any of my messages!

That’s why I always recommend assessing how a plumber communicates with you. You can do this when you ask for a quote from the company. Pay attention to how they respond to your request. Are they friendly and understanding? Do they respond quickly?

If the consultation is face-to-face, observe their attitude and body language. Do they give off a warm and inviting vibe? Or is it the opposite? Whatever your observations are, they will provide you an insight into what it will be like to work with these people. 

I admit this is a pretty subjective step, but it’s super helpful.