How to choose a trusted professional in Lebanon

Most people in Lebanon still find a plumber or electrician the same way: they ask a neighbour. A recommendation is a good start, but a few minutes of checking before the work begins saves a lot of trouble afterwards.

Before you call

• Describe the problem clearly: what happened, when it started and what you have already tried. A photo or short video sent on WhatsApp helps a lot.
• Contact two or three people for the same job, so you can compare answers and prices.
• Prefer someone who works in or near your area: they arrive faster and come back more easily if something needs fixing.

Questions worth asking

• How long have you been doing this kind of work?
• Is the price for the whole job, or are materials and transport extra?
• Do you bring the parts, or should I buy them?
• If the problem comes back, do you return to fix it?
• Can you show me photos of similar jobs, or put me in touch with a previous customer?

Warning signs

• A price that changes once the work has started, without a clear reason.
• Asking for the full payment before any work is done.
• Not wanting to explain what was wrong or what was replaced.
• Pressure to decide immediately.

After the job

Keep the person’s number and a note of what was done and what it cost. Test the work before they leave: run the water, switch the power back on, check the AC. If you were happy, telling others is the best way to help a good professional.