Throughout the lifespan of every home, its sewage and plumbing systems will need to be repaired or replaced periodically. No matter what plumbing problem you’re currently experiencing — from sewer line replacement to more simple plumbing services like unclogging drains — it’s important to be sure you’re choosing the right plumber and plumbing company for the job.

That’s because plumbers are contractors — and as a result, there are things you should establish before hiring a plumber to complete work on your home’s plumbing or sewer system.

Not sure how to seek out the best plumbing services in your area, or what practical parameters to establish once you do? To help you hire the right plumber to fix your problem, be sure to ask these four questions before signing any contracts:

Are you licensed to be offering plumbing services?

It should be obvious — but never hire a plumber who isn’t fully licensed to do this work. A surprising number of plumbers will lie and say they’re licensed, so it’s important to see proof of their licensing. To be a licensed plumber, one needs to be registered with both the state and local governments.

How do you charge for your services?

Plumbing companies can charge for their services in a variety of different ways. Some charge with a flat rate for completing a project, and others use an hourly rate. It’s important to know how much you’ll be expected to pay for this work once it’s completed.

Who will actually perform the work?

While many plumbing services just require one plumber to do the job, others require an entire team of people. Be sure to know who exactly will be working on your home’s plumbing, and find out their experience level and qualifications.

What happens if something accidentally breaks?

Accidents happen — and if something does break, it’s important to know that your plumbing company offers a warranty for the work it does. Some companies will return and fix anything within a year of the job, but other companies’ policies are more limited. Know what your plumber’s warranty policy is before signing a contract.

Need more advice on how to pick the best plumbing contractors for jobs like drain repair, drain replacement or trenchless pipe repair? Feel free to ask any questions you have by leaving a comment below.