Hiring a Plumbing and/or Gas Fitting Contractor – State of Alabama

Ask friends and family for recommendations.
Research any potential contractors online for reviews of workmanship, pricing, etc. You can find reviews on many different websites.
Contact several contractors and have each provide a written bid on the full project. Make sure each quote includes the removal of existing fixtures and a detailed description of the materials to be used.
Inquire of the personnel that will be performing the work. Are they properly trained/certified?
Check to see if licensing is required by your city, state, and county. Check to see if the contractor holds the required licenses.
Verify that the company is insured against claims of worker's compensation, property damage, and personal liability should an accident occur.
Check with the Better Business Bureau, State Attorney General’ s Office, and State Regulatory Boards to inquire about a complaint history pertaining to the contractor.
Check for membership in trade organizations, such as the local Homebuilder Association or the National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors. Companies who participate in these organizations tend to be more likely to keep up to date on new regulations and codes.
Inquire how the contractor will price the job. Will they bill by the hour or will there be a flat rate for the job?
Select a contractor based on price, experience, and your impression.
Be cautious of paying with cash or paying for work/materials before job begins.
Understand that the State of Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examining Board has in place a comprehensive and fair consumer complaint process.