SMALL JOB PLUMBING COMPANY
BackBased on Bulmershe Road in Reading, SMALL JOB PLUMBING COMPANY positions itself with a name that clearly defines its niche: handling the minor yet urgent plumbing issues that homeowners frequently face. This focus, combined with a 24/7 operational model, makes it a prominent option for those in need of an emergency plumber. The company, fronted by Steve Goodwin, has garnered a significant amount of customer feedback, painting a picture of a largely reliable and responsive service, but not without some serious points of concern.
A Reputation for Rapid, Professional Service
For many customers, the experience with this local plumber has been overwhelmingly positive. A recurring theme in their feedback is the impressive speed of response. When faced with emergencies like a flooded kitchen or a sudden leak from a stopcock, clients report that Steve was often able to attend within the hour. This swiftness is a critical asset in the plumbing trade, where delays can lead to significant property damage. The company’s promise of a 24-hour plumber service appears to be more than just a slogan; it's a practice that has earned considerable praise.
Beyond just speed, the quality of the work is frequently highlighted. Customers describe the workmanship as neat, tidy, and professional. Issues like troublesome stopcocks, persistent leaks, and frustrating blockages were reportedly resolved efficiently. Many reviews express satisfaction with the friendly and communicative approach taken, noting that Steve not only fixed the problem but also offered helpful advice. This suggests a service that aims to be both effective and reassuring, particularly for those with limited plumbing knowledge.
Services Tailored to Common Household Problems
The company's website reinforces its brand identity, listing a clear menu of plumbing services designed for smaller-scale domestic needs. These include:
- Tap repairs and replacements
- Toilet and shower repairs
- Fixing leaks and overflows
- Radiator maintenance
- Clearing blockages
This specialisation is a key selling point. While larger firms might prioritise major installations, SMALL JOB PLUMBING COMPANY ensures that tasks like a dripping tap or a faulty toilet flush receive prompt attention. The business also explicitly states it has no call-out charge, a policy that provides upfront value and transparency for potential customers. It's important to note that the services listed focus on general plumbing; there is no mention of gas work, so customers requiring a Gas Safe registered engineer for boiler issues would need to look elsewhere.
A Significant Cause for Concern
However, the narrative is not uniformly positive. A deeply concerning review from a customer presents a starkly different experience that cannot be overlooked. This client alleges a series of grave issues during a job to repair a pump for a disabled shower. The accusations include being charged significantly more than the initial quote—reportedly half as much again—and a subsequent refusal by the company to provide an invoice for the work.
More troubling are the claims of unprofessional conduct, with the customer stating they were shouted at and felt bullied when they challenged the situation. The review also includes an accusation that the original, still-functional pump was taken away and never returned. Crucially, the customer reported that the fundamental problem with the shower remained unresolved. These allegations raise serious questions about pricing transparency, customer service under pressure, and the ethical handling of disputes. While this account is an outlier among a sea of positive feedback, its severity warrants careful consideration for anyone thinking of hiring the service.
Final Assessment
Ultimately, SMALL JOB PLUMBING COMPANY presents a dual profile. On one hand, it stands out as a highly effective and swift Reading plumber for common, non-gas-related emergencies and minor repairs. The majority of customer experiences point to a reliable, friendly, and professional service that delivers on its promise to tackle small jobs without delay. The 24/7 availability is a massive advantage for anyone facing an unexpected leak repair or blocked drains.
On the other hand, the existence of a severe complaint involving overcharging, aggressive behaviour, and failure to complete a job properly is a significant red flag. It suggests that while most interactions are positive, there is a risk of a very negative outcome. Potential clients should weigh the wealth of good reviews against the gravity of the negative one. It may be prudent to seek a written quote before work begins, clarify all costs involved, and confirm the scope of work to ensure there are no misunderstandings down the line.
