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Drain Cleaning
Clear and concise communication costs nothing!
MPA SA has had a fair amount of contact over the past 3 to 4 months on the subject of drain cleaning, the challenges and misfortunes both by consumers and by plumbing contractors. The theme behind a lot of the calls has centred on a lack of clear and concise communication.
So, with this in mind, the thought of forming a specific committee has been raised and we will endeavour over the next few months to put a team of people together and look at ways to improve all processes and provide assistance for all interested parties.The one action that can be dealt with reasonably quickly is to list a few items to think about and put them into practice to see if this helps the cause.
So, for those that have a drain cleaner and engage with clients please continue on reading and I would be interested for feedback on the following; Some questions / thoughts for both yourself and the client that may assist in ensuring there is a better understanding prior to undertaking the task;
• Are you cleaning or inspecting pipework?
• What area of pipework needs cleaning or inspecting?
• What type of equipment is going to be used in the task?
• If using a camera, are you recording for the client of just looking for your own reference?
• What are the costs of the equipment?
• What happens if you (plumber) cannot get access to the
pipework?
• Is there any additional costs should you need to cut a hole in existing pipework?
• Are there any drainage drawings and who needs to access them?
• What happens if the cable gets caught and requires digging, or removing pavers?
• What happens if there is damage to the pipework – was it there prior or did your machine do the damage?
• Who pays for the repairs – plumber or client?
• What happens if the blockage is not on the clients property –> Government Infrastructure?
• Who cleans up the mess if the plumber had to dig out material to access the pipework?
• Are the fees per hour or a fixed price?
• What are the best options to fix the problem, repair with a new
section of pipe or replacement of the entire pipework?
• Terms and Conditions for engagement prior to work commencing – outlines the payment terms and other clauses that will protect you
• Agreement on the replacement of any landscaping ie; pavers, concrete, lawn etc
• Confirmation on what happens from here on – if there is another blockage or the condition of the drain.
The above list of points provide members with some scope but there are possibly more that could be added, if you feel you can make a contribution to the list and wish to participate in a committee focused around greater clarity and understanding, please feel free to contact Andrew Clarke at MPA SA.
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