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Buy now, pay later interest freeAs a plumber, struggling to win new clients can be exhausting.
Let's face it, the plumbing industry has always been a competitive one, with many businesses and individuals competing for the same customers. This makes it challenging when you want to attract more clients.
If you want to learn how to build your reputation as a reliable and trustworthy plumber, our industry experts have put together some helpful tips on how to stand out, get ahead of the competition, and make your plumbing business more attractive to potential customers.
What Are the Differences Between a Warranty, a Guarantee, and a Promise?
Understanding the differences between a guarantee, a warranty, and a promise can be confusing. Yet knowing the fundamental differences can be vital for making your firm stand out from the crowd while establishing yourself as a reputable, trustworthy choice for customers.
Now let's compare all three…
Firstly, a Guarantee is typically documented in writing and is a formal assurance that certain conditions will be fulfilled. This is particularly so if a product needs to be repaired or replaced or if a service is not up to quality. You may notice that businesses will promote a 100% satisfaction guarantee with their products.
Next, a Warranty is a written guarantee and a legally binding document. This is issued to the purchaser of a product or by its manufacturer. It's the promise to repair or replace a product should it experience any defects or malfunctions for a specified period.
Finally, a Promise assures a client that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen. An example would be to promise to turn up in a set time frame at a client’s property.
What Certifications Do I Need as an Installer?
Though a thoroughly rewarding career, becoming a plumber is no easy feat and requires a high level of skill and knowledge. You work with water, gas, and other potentially dangerous materials, meaning plumbing is one role where it’s crucial to ensure you get the proper training and become certified.
Getting certified as a plumber is also a great way to demonstrate your skills and knowledge to potential clients. Proof of certification will not only reassure them, but over time your clients will start to recognise your professionalism.
Here is an overview of the must-have certifications:
- Gas Safety Certification
Gas safety registration is a legal requirement, and must be renewed annually. Not only will installers without this certification receive a hefty fine, but any appliances they install pose a potential risk to life for customers using them.
- Electrical Installation Certificate
To provide your clients with electrical installations, you’ll need to complete either a Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installation or a Level 3 Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. These courses cover the basic principles of electricity, as well as health and safety, inspection testing, and wiring.
Once you’ve finished your studies, you must pass an assessment to complete the course and obtain your certificate.
Meanwhile, it's always good to have gained some electrical work experience to further help become a fully qualified and licensed electrician.
- Plumbing Certifications
Similar to electrical certificates, acquiring plumbing certifications requires installers to take an essential plumbing course. This covers all the critical areas of plumbing as well as an NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating which offers the advanced knowledge and ability to install, repair, and maintain heating and water systems.
It’s recommended that installers also complete the WRAS - Water Regulations Advisory Scheme Course. This course gives installers the knowledge to gain an 'approved status'. The WRAS course then allows you to take on contracts from local housing associations, local authorities, health care trusts, and building contractors. This way you’re able to show potential clients your competency with installations, thus attracting more business.
- MCS Registered
With more renewable energy methods becoming a staple in modern homes, City Plumbing has partnered with GTEC Training. This allows us to provide installers with accredited training for becoming MCS registered and is hugely beneficial for helping you and your business stand out.
MCS is an industry-led scheme that demonstrates the reliability and quality of approved products and installation companies. It offers installers the chance to receive the proper training for heat pumps and solar panels as well as other renewable energy methods. Also, an MCS accreditation shows your customers that you’re able to install to the industry-expected level of quality every time.
With an MCS certification, you can offer your clients an extended warranty on heat pumps, as well as provide installation services for other renewable methods such as solar thermal and battery storage.
How Can Installers Network Their Business?
Having your own business as an installer is a great achievement. Yet, it’s networking your business against competitors that will set it apart from the crowd.
By networking your business, you can build connections with other specialists who can help you grow and accomplish your goals. Also, networking is an excellent way for your business to find new customers and partners willing to showcase your work.
There are many ways you can network your installation business, including:
- Attend Industry Events
Many trade events happen all over the UK including conferences, talks, and opportunities. All trades can learn about the latest trends at these events while networking their own business.
Trade events also help manufacturers show off new and existing products to the industry. So, by taking advantage of this and connecting here, one day, these connections may well be recommending your business to customers seeking installation services.
- Build Supplier Relationships
Building a rapport with suppliers is valuable when networking your business. This is especially so if you need to pick up materials for installation projects.
For example, by simply getting to know staff members, they’ll start to learn what services you can offer. So, in return, they may be able to refer customers back to you or even partner with you on future projects or offer great trade discounts if you become a loyal customer of theirs.
- Utilise Social Media Platforms
More individuals in the trade have jumped on board social media, particularly on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, as well as LinkedIn and Twitter.
Utilising social media platforms is a great way to meet new people who are interested in your business. Here you can post business updates, create polls to discover the latest trends with your audience, and offer discount promotions to further connect with customers.
Nowadays, more installers are utilising social media platforms such as TikTok to post eye-catching images and informative short videos for showcasing new products, services, or even quick how-to guides.
As younger generations start to move out and get onto the property ladder, it’s worth keeping in mind that they’re likely not flicking through the yellow pages (or even know what the yellow pages is). They use social media, and trusted sites such as Checkatrade for a hassle-free experience. Ensure you’re set up on these platforms to ensure maximum exposure.
Should You Volunteer Your Time as an Installer?
If you want to go the extra mile and can set some time aside, volunteering is a great way to give back to your community. Volunteering your services also helps you connect with new people while sharing common interests.
You could volunteer at local charities, schools, and colleges to teach those potential younger, inspiring installers all about the trade, and educate them on how they can become the tradespeople of the future.
What Are The Best Tools That Installers Need?
Finally, an important step to standing out in the plumbing industry is ensuring you’re equipped with top-quality tools. Being prepared here means you’re ready for any situation and ready to go when called out.
If you’re new to the plumbing industry and just getting started, we have a guide on a beginner's list of must-have plumbing tools.
Most important when starting is the use of a high-quality toolbox. Here you can safely store essential tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, and drillbits inside keeping them all in one place.
By having your tools neatly organised, you can make your tasks quicker and more efficient, and leave a great professional first impression on your client
Following our guidance will help you and your business stand out from the crowd.
Your clients will put their faith in you for the services you can provide with the appropriate certifications. And, by differentiating yourself from the competition, you’re better placed to attract more clients with high-quality work and innovative solutions.
If you require further help or advice for all things plumbing, then get in touch with our experts or visit your local City Plumbing Branch.
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