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Jun 16, 2024

Unfortunately, the need for reliable plumbing services has given rise to numerous scams targeting unsuspecting homeowners. At Express Plumbing & Rooter, we provide a wide variety of popular services for our local clients, from sewer repair to sewer line cleaning. We believe in educating our customers to help them avoid trouble. Keep reading to learn some common plumbing scams as well as tips on how to protect yourself.

The Sneaky Bait-and-Switch Tactic

This scam typically begins with an offer that seems too good to be true, such as an incredibly low estimate for a plumbing job. Once the plumber arrives and begins the work, they "discover" additional problems that were not initially apparent. Suddenly, the cost of the job skyrockets, leaving the homeowner with a bill that far exceeds the original estimate.

  • Get Multiple Estimates: Before committing to a plumbing job, get estimates from at least three different plumbers. This will give you a better idea of what the job should cost.
  • Ask for a Detailed Quote: Make sure that the quote includes a breakdown of all potential costs, including labor, materials, and any additional fees.
  • Ask for References: Look for reviews of the plumber's work and ask for references from previous clients. This can provide insight into the plumber's reliability and honesty.

The Upfront Payment Trap

Another common scam involves demanding full payment upfront before any work begins. Once the payment is made, the plumber may delay the job, perform subpar work, or disappear altogether, leaving the homeowner with unfinished or poorly done plumbing work and out of pocket.

  • Never Pay in Full Upfront: A reputable plumber will not ask for full payment before starting the work. Instead, they may request a reasonable deposit and the balance upon completion.
  • Use Secure Payment Methods: Avoid paying in cash, instead use a check or credit card to ensure there is a paper trail.
  • Have a Contract: Make sure that you have a contract that details the scope of work, payment schedule, and timeline. This provides legal protection if things go wrong.

The Unlicensed Plumber Risk

Hiring an unlicensed plumber often leads to a host of problems, including substandard work, lack of insurance coverage, and no recourse if anything goes wrong. Unlicensed plumbers may offer lower rates, but the risks far outweigh any initial savings.

  • Verify Licensing: Always verify that the plumber is licensed and insured. This information can usually be checked with your state or local licensing board.
  • Check for Insurance: Ensure the plumber has liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage to defend yourself in case of accidents or damages.
  • Ask for Proof: Don't just take the plumber's word for it; ask to see their license and insurance certificates.

The False Inspection Report

Some scammers pose as plumbing inspectors offering free home inspections. During the inspection, they "find" major issues and recommend immediate repairs. In reality, these issues may be exaggerated or entirely fabricated to scare homeowners into unnecessary and costly services.

  • Verify Credentials: Verify the inspector's credentials and ensure they are affiliated with a legitimate company or government agency.
  • Request a Written Report: Ask for a detailed written report of the inspection findings. This can be reviewed by a third-party plumber for verification.
  • Be Cautious of High-Pressure Tactics: Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to convince you to act immediately. Take your time to verify the information and consider your options.

Do You Need a Sewer Line Cleaning or Plumbing Repair Service?

Plumbing scams can cause significant financial and emotional stress. At Express Plumbing & Rooter, we pride ourselves on our integrity and commitment to customer satisfaction. We offer transparent pricing, licensed and insured plumbers, and high-quality service you can trust. If you need reliable plumbing services, give us a call today and schedule your next trenchless sewer line replacement, inspection service, or sewer repair.

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Reviews

What Our Customers Say

Absolutely outstanding service.They were super professional, responsive, prompt, and knowledgeable. I'll definitely call them when something 'breaks' again. Highly recommend this! Such a great company, they did their job very well & were very nice workers, I recommend this company if you have a plumbing problem.

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Mike FloresAnaheim, CA

Very professional, honest and clean plumbers. They changed my sewer line in 2 days and their pricing was very reasonable. Thank you. I strongly recommend Express Plumbing & Rooter to anyone in the area looking to hire a local plumber.  I will use them as well in the future if I need a plumbing company again.

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Marcus AureliusLos Angeles, CA

Let me tell you folks what I went through last night after I came home from a party I walked in my bathroom and saw the bathtub and toilet overflowing with black water so I immediately went online and found a company this company was express plumbing and router the girl on the phone was really really friendly and nice she assured me that my problem will be solved and I should have no worries the technician will be arriving in 60 to 90 minutes she told me well that was true because he was here in 45 minutes  The technician came and unclog the drain for only amazing $55 when he came in to my house he was wearing booties so he said would not dirty my carpet that's a plus because I have white carpets in my house I would really recommend this company to my family and friends and whoever has a plumbing problem thank you express plumbing and rooter.

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John KanondzhyanManhattan Beach, CA

Lifesavers! I had a problem and needed someone to come down as soon as possible. They came and checked out the problem within the hour. They explained everything that had happened and fixed it so quick before all my guests had arrived! It was such a last minute problem and Im so glad Express was able to come fix the situation for such an amazing price!!

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Stella BCovina, CA

I made an appointment from 11a-12p this morning. I called at 10:50am to confirm the appointment was still happening. The girl on the other end said the plumber will arrive soon. They are on time and prompt. Thanks Express Plumbing And Rooter Service Los Angeles, California.

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Frank EvansAnaheim, CA

Left a review a few days ago on Yelp. Not sure what happened with the other review experiences here but my experience was great. They were very professional. I went there discussed my plumbing needs and they explained all the charges. Made an appointment and they came and fixed my plumbing. The whole thing went smoothly and I recommend them!

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Ali PourvaseiSylmar, CA