Borden Contracting: What to Know Before You Call

Who Borden Contracting Is and What They Do

Borden Contracting is a plumbing company operating in South Carolina that handles residential and commercial plumbing work. They perform repairs, installations, and maintenance on water lines, drain systems, fixtures, and related plumbing infrastructure. Like any contractor you might hire, understanding their service area, how they price work, and what to expect from the process helps you decide whether they're the right fit for your project.

Before calling any plumbing contractor, it's useful to know what questions to ask and what information you should have ready. This guide walks through the practical steps of working with a plumbing company and what to look for when evaluating your options.

Key Takeaways

• Gather details about your plumbing problem before calling—location of the issue, when it started, and what you've already tried—so the contractor can give you an accurate estimate.
• Ask about service fees, trip charges, and whether estimates are free or paid, because pricing structures vary between contractors.
• Request references or online reviews from past customers to understand the quality and reliability of work you can expect.
• Get a written estimate that breaks down labor, materials, and timeline before work begins, and confirm what's included in the price.
• Verify that any contractor you hire is licensed and insured, which protects you if something goes wrong during the job.

What Information to Have Ready Before You Call

When you contact a plumbing contractor, having details prepared saves time and helps them give you a realistic estimate. Write down where the problem is located (kitchen, bathroom, basement), what you're experiencing (slow drain, leak, no water pressure), and when the issue started. If you've already tried anything—like using a plunger or turning off a valve—mention that too.

Take a photo of the problem area if possible, especially if there's visible damage, rust, or water pooling. Note the age of your home and whether you know what type of pipes you have (copper, PVC, galvanized steel), though the contractor will often determine this during an inspection. The more specific you are, the less likely you'll get a vague estimate that changes once work starts.

Understanding Pricing and Service Fees

Plumbing contractors charge in different ways, and knowing the structure upfront prevents surprises. Some charge a service call or trip fee just to come out and diagnose the problem—this may or may not be credited toward the final bill if you hire them for the work. Others include the diagnostic visit in their estimate at no charge. Ask which model they use before they arrive.

Labor rates vary based on the complexity of the job, the time of day (emergency calls often cost more), and your location within South Carolina. Materials are usually marked up and added to the labor cost. Request a written estimate that itemizes labor hours, material costs, and any fees separately, so you understand exactly what you're paying for. If the estimate seems significantly lower than others you've received, ask why—it may indicate a difference in scope, or it may be a red flag.

Checking Credentials and Getting References

South Carolina requires plumbers to be licensed, and you should verify this before hiring. Ask for the contractor's license number and confirm it with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. A licensed plumber has met training and testing requirements and is subject to oversight if something goes wrong.

Insurance is equally important. A contractor should carry liability insurance (in case they damage your home) and workers' compensation (if they're injured on your property). Ask to see proof of both before work begins. Beyond credentials, ask for references from recent jobs—ideally customers in your area with similar problems. Online reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau also give you a sense of how the company handles complaints and whether customers felt the work was worth the cost.

What to Expect During and After the Job

A reputable contractor will walk you through what they're about to do, explain why it's necessary, and confirm the estimate before starting work. If they discover additional problems once they open up the wall or access the pipes, they should stop and show you the issue, explain the options, and get your approval before proceeding. Never agree to work beyond the original estimate without a new written agreement.

After the job is complete, ask for a detailed invoice that matches the estimate, and keep it for your records. A good contractor will also explain how to maintain what they've fixed and answer questions about warranty—some offer guarantees on parts or labor for a set period. If you're not satisfied with the work, address it immediately rather than waiting weeks; most contractors will return to fix problems if you call promptly.

When to Get Multiple Estimates

For major work—like replacing a water heater, rerouting drain lines, or fixing foundation leaks—getting two or three estimates is standard practice. This gives you a sense of the range in pricing and approach. Don't automatically choose the cheapest; instead, compare what each contractor is proposing to do and why. A higher estimate might include better materials, a longer warranty, or a more thorough solution.

For emergency repairs (a burst pipe at midnight, sewage backing up), you may not have time to shop around, and emergency rates are typically higher. In that case, focus on finding a licensed, insured contractor who can respond quickly rather than spending hours calling for quotes.

Red Flags and What to Avoid

Be cautious of contractors who pressure you to decide immediately, quote a price over the phone without seeing the problem, or ask for full payment upfront before any work is done. Legitimate contractors understand that you want to think about the estimate and compare options. They also typically ask for a deposit (often 25 to 50 percent) with the balance due upon completion, not the full amount in advance.

If a contractor can't or won't provide a license number, insurance information, or references, that's a reason to keep looking. Similarly, if they seem dismissive of your questions or unwilling to explain their work in plain language, you may have better luck elsewhere. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a plumbing problem needs emergency service or can wait?

Call for emergency service if water is actively leaking into your home, you have no water at all, sewage is backing up, or you smell gas. These situations can cause damage or pose safety risks. Slow drains, minor leaks under the sink, or running toilets can usually wait until business hours, though you should still address them within a few days to prevent bigger problems.

What's the difference between a plumber and a handyman?

A licensed plumber has formal training, passes exams, and is authorized to do all plumbing work. A handyman may handle minor repairs but cannot legally do major plumbing work in South Carolina. For anything beyond a simple fix, hire a licensed plumber to ensure the work meets code and is done safely.

Should I get a permit for plumbing work?

Many plumbing jobs require a permit from your local building department, and a licensed contractor will know which ones do. Permits ensure the work is inspected and meets code. Skipping a permit to save money can create problems when you sell your home or file an insurance claim. Ask your contractor whether a permit is needed for your specific job.

What should I do if I'm not happy with the work after it's done?

Contact the contractor as soon as you notice the problem and explain what's wrong. Most reputable companies will return to fix issues under warranty. If they won't, document the problem with photos and get a second opinion from another plumber in writing. Then contact the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation if you believe the work violates code or the contractor's license should be reviewed.

Can I do plumbing repairs myself to save money?

Minor tasks like replacing a faucet aerator or clearing a drain with a plunger are fine for homeowners. Anything involving water lines, drain pipes, or fixtures that affect your home's plumbing system should be done by a licensed plumber. DIY mistakes can lead to leaks, water damage, code violations, and costly repairs down the road.