10 Things to Look for When Hiring a Drainlayer

Dunedin frequently tops lists related to quality of life in New Zealand for many good reasons. The beauty of the surrounding landscape is the most obvious, but the city’s emphasis on culture and the wide availability of services also serve to give it a good balance as far as New Zealand’s cities go. 

Of course, one of the most notable things about Dunedin is the weather. It’s much cooler here on average than in most other inhabited parts of the country—cool enough that the infrastructure and maintenance services have to account for it. For instance, pipes can be subjected to freezing temperatures in the winter and relatively wide temperature cycles throughout the day, making plumbing a somewhat different undertaking here than it is in the rest of the country. If you need some drainlaying done, you’ll want to avoid going the DIY route and call experts who know the ins and outs of Dunedin plumbing.

Whether you need a drainlayer for a residential or commercial property, getting the right people to do the job will positively impact the longevity of its drainage system. Here are some things to look out for when selecting drainlayers and other plumbing specialists:

1. Qualifications and Credentials



As mentioned, drainlaying is not a thing to take lightly. While certified drainlayers may cost more upfront than a typical fly-by-night operation, you’ll save money over the lifetime of your property thanks to the competent work these crews will perform.

Look for drainlaying services like Mains Plumbers with people who are fully qualified and licensed to operate in your area. If you need industrial or commercial drainlaying, check if the drainlayers are registered with relevant professional bodies, as these applications demand adherence to set industry standards and local regulations.

2. Experience

While licensing and certification do matter, experience also counts when it comes to drainlaying. An experienced professional already knows the most viable approaches to different drain system scenarios, making them able to provide effective solutions to various drainage issues faster than an otherwise qualified novice. It’s partly for this reason that drainlayers and other plumbing specialists are usually mentored for years by experienced veterans.

3. Portfolio of Work

Don’t hesitate to ask to see examples of projects completed by the drainlayer. The scope, scale, and specific challenges in their portfolio should give you an insight into their expertise and the quality of their workmanship.

4. Specialisation

You may want to shortlist drainlayers who specialise in the types of drainage systems required by your project. For instance, if you’re building a small food processing facility, you’ll want to choose a drainlayer with expertise in commercial or industrial systems over someone who is qualified but mostly handles residential properties.

5. Cost and Quotation

As with any major undertaking, it’s a good idea to obtain detailed quotations from several contractors before making a decision. However, rather than simply looking at the bottom line, consider the overall value offered by the drainlayer in terms of work quality and reliability. Because drains are critical systems, you want to make sure they last, regardless of your budget.

6. Insurance Coverage

Make sure that the drainlayer you’re planning to engage with has adequate insurance coverage. This protects both you and the drainlayer from potential accidents that may occur during the project.

7. Reputation and Reviews



Before you contact a drainlayer, check their online reviews and look around local social media groups for an idea of the quality they offer. Once you’ve gotten in touch, you can also ask for references from past clients to better gauge their suitability for the project. The proportion of positive and negative feedback from these sources may paint a nuanced picture of their capabilities.

8. Communication Skills

Effective communication is an underappreciated ingredient in the success of any construction project. A drainlayer who communicates clearly and on time is a green flag. Even better if they listen to your requirements and provide prompt, measured feedback to your inquiries.

9. Attention to Detail

Even the smallest drainlaying errors can lead to issues that can go undetected for quite a long time. This means your drainlayer must be able to do things right the first time. Look for a drainlayer who pays close attention to every aspect of the project, from the moment you discuss your project brief all the way through to final execution.

10. Use of Quality Materials



Catastrophic drain failures can potentially cause millions of dollars in property damage. Needless to say, material quality is not something any good drainlayer will let you skimp on. A reputable drainlayer will always use high-quality materials, and even their more economical recommendations can be expected to meet or surpass industry standards. Whatever your budget, they will guarantee the quality of the materials used in your drain system.

Call Mains Plumbers for Your Drainlaying Needs

Looking into these factors will help you find the drainlaying and plumbing teams that can best handle your project. As with any worthwhile undertaking, spending a few days to narrow down and hire the right professionals will ultimately save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. Get in touch with Mains Plumbers for the best Dunedin plumbing experience local homeowners and businesses depend on.