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b"As a homeowner there can be a seemingly never-ending stream of plumbing problems. Blocked toilets, leaking taps or faulty hot water systems. They\\u2019re all a part of life, whether it\\u2019s in your own home or an investment property.\\n\\n\\n\\nBut when the time comes for necessary, often urgent repairs, you want the best plumber to get the job done. And that decision making process has its own challenges. They key is to never panic or feel rushed. It\\u2019s always better to take your time making the right choice instead of chasing up loose ends later on.\\n\\n\\n\\nBacked by a calm approach, here are 8 things you should look for when choosing a good plumber.\\n\\n\\n\\n1. Positive and Reliable Online Reviews\\n\\n\\n\\nReviews of Metropolitan Plumbing Sydney\\n\\n\\n\\nThe first thing you want to do is look at online reviews. Never leave it until you\\u2019re unhappy with a job and want to complain. It\\u2019s one thing to stick to a name you remember from television advertising or letterbox drops, but it\\u2019s another to properly check out their reputation and reviews.\\n\\n\\n\\nLeading resources include Product Review, an Australian consumer-based review site, and Google Review. Both are independent sources where customers can leave detailed feedback. You can then check out the pros and cons before making any decision. Look for recurring themes surrounding pricing, job satisfaction, customer service and availability. Individual reviews may focus on just one point, like pricing, so it\\u2019s always good to capture the overall picture.\\n\\n\\n\\nAn inside tip is to avoid the lure of companies which seem too good to be true. An overall 5-star rating looks appealing, but is there actually a large quantity of reviews? A good balance of positive and negative reviews reveals legitimacy and engagement. There\\u2019s a better chance at truly seeing a company\\u2019s overall performance, rather than a tiny snapshot.\\n\\n\\n\\nRemember, it\\u2019s not possible to please everyone. There will be negative reviews and although 5 stars seems tantalising, the 4.5 ratings are the best benchmark. You can build from there and use the feedback as the perfect starting point for choosing a good plumber.\\n\\n\\n\\nCheck out Metropolitan Plumbing's reviews on Product Review\\n\\n\\n\\n2. A Good Social Media/Online Presence\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nAn engaging, communicative social media and online presence is just as informative as customer reviews. And although it may not be the first thing you think of when looking for a plumber, it\\u2019s an invaluable resource. Regular communication, informative posts and a professional website indicates a company which cares about customers. It\\u2019s more than just image.\\xa0\\n\\n\\n\\nEvidence of a plumber answering questions and comments is always beneficial. As the customer you can rest assured someone is willing to help if anything goes wrong. On the other hand, when it seems like it\\u2019s difficult to engage with a plumber online, often the poor communication stretches to customer service.\\xa0\\n\\n\\n\\nIrregular posts, no customer interaction and obvious negative comments are a major detraction. Just stay away from the plumbers and companies which give off a sour feeling on social media.\\xa0\\n\\n\\n\\nInstead, look for those who post great images and have a positive interaction with customers. An active blog on their website is a good sign so is an active YouTube channel. This can really give you a better feel for the company or plumber you're going to be working with.\\n\\n\\n\\nPlumbers that are proud to show off past work are helping you make a big decision. Their eye-catching renovations and professional installations are all the evidence you need. As they say, a picture is worth 1000 words.\\n\\n\\n\\n3. License Numbers and Insurance\\n\\n\\n\\nAlways use a fully licensed plumber, electrician, technician or tradesperson. There are no ifs or buts about it. Even if the prices are low and you\\u2019re desperate, the risk does not balance out the reward.\\xa0\\n\\n\\n\\nWhile you\\u2019re looking at a website or Facebook page, look for licence numbers. Often they\\u2019ll be located in the About Us section or a page footer."