I hired a licensed plumber to replace all the cast-iron sewage pipes in my house with modern ABS. The contract mentioned that the work would be 'to code,' so I assumed he would pull the necessary permit. He also said there would be extra charges for the permit, which I agreed to. After completing the job, he sealed everything up with cement and didn't give me a detailed summary of the work done, including the specifics on the materials used, like pipe types and cement procedures, which are crucial to ensure the work is up to code.
A few weeks later, when I wanted to modify the setup of the toilet pipe, I discovered some code violations. I reached out to the plumber for a detailed work summary and to confirm any quality assurance measures taken. He has been unresponsive and even admitted over the phone that no quality checks were done, yet he blames me for not asking him to get the permit. Now, it's been almost a week since my request, and I'm considering having another plumber inspect his work and then send him a bill for fixing the issues.
Am I in the right here? Should I give him a chance to fix everything, even though he lied and didn't follow our contract? Is it time to involve a lawyer?
3 Answers
It's tricky because permits and codes can get confusing. But your contract states the work must be done to code, and if pulling a permit is required by local regulations for the work done, then he’s failed his obligation. Definitely get those violations documented by another plumber, and don’t hesitate to get legal advice about compensation for the mess he left behind.
Definitely review your contract closely. If it specifies that work must meet code, that should provide you some leverage. Even if there’s no mention of a detailed work summary, the requirement to comply with codes typically implies that all necessary permits should be pulled. Also, you're not obligated to give him another chance if he's already breached the contract by not communicating or fixing issues. Be sure to get a lawyer's advice to navigate this properly.
You might want to consult a lawyer to understand your options and rights in this situation. It's concerning that he didn’t pull a permit or provide a thorough work summary, especially when your contract emphasized that the work should comply with code. Getting a second opinion from another plumber sounds like a solid next step, too, especially if you’ve found code violations already. Better to know the situation than to be stuck with a possible disaster down the line!