PHIL'S SEWER CLEANING SERVICE

Background: 1850's residential rental. Most plumbing and all fixtures have been replaced by a professional in 2007. Only some of the in-accessible plumbing under the floor remains from a 1920's remodel. A 2nd floor tub has new fixtures and plastic pipes from the tub to as far as the plumber could reach. Because of an old "trap" long since hidden, that tub has clogged 3 times since I purchased the building. The story: A woman answered with no company greeting when called, but did confirm that I called Phil's. A message was left and Phil return the call promptly. Phil and two assistants arrived within minutes and proceeded to identify the problem. A clogged drain was confirmed by Phil and attempts to fix the problem with a plunger was futile. Phil brought in a plumbers "snake" to fix the problem. I mentioned that this drain has clogged before and I was told a snake was not recommended and some "blower" was the best option. Phil was certain his method would work and I, not being the professional, let him continue. Upon starting the drill powered snake, the tub shook. I was concerned and went to the bedroom that had the access panel to the back of the tub. The pipes vibrated and shortly the snake broke through, spilling water from the tub into the kitchen below. I loudly yelled to stop as he continued to operate the snake, which was coming out of the pipe and into the room. After assessing the situation, Phil brought the snake into the bedroom and proceeded to go after the clog through the busted hole in the pipe. I again expressed concern that more damage would be done. Phil ended up freeing the clog, getting a new piece of pipe, and tested the drain. I, still in the bedroom, immediately saw water coming from the bottom of the tub. Phil investigated and concluded that the plumber that installed the drain did not use putty and the drain was also loose. I disputed this idea pointing out that there was not so much as a drip from that area before he started and being loose and lack of putty would not cause such a big problem. He tightened the drain, which did little to fix the new problem, and suggested I use clear silicon around the drain for a cheap fix. I said I'll call a plumber. Phil packed up his tools and left filth, mostly from his boots, in the bedroom, the tub, floors, and sink. The evening concluded with Phil requesting "only" $45 for the fix. Granted, he did fix the problem, but caused $140 in damages to the new drain below the tub, with no concern. He wouldn't provide a receipt and requested immediate payment, which could mean he may not be reporting all of his earnings for taxes. It was a low amount, so I paid him to get him out and get rid of him. I contemplated a small claims suit against him, but I'm a little more forgiving and chalk this up to one of life's lessons. He was friendly enough and his intention was to help without any harm. That night, the plumber said he should have known the new plastic pipes are more fragile.