Why the questions matter more than usual
Once a slab is patched or a wall closed, you cannot easily check what was done. A homeowner facing a slab leak is also often stressed, dealing with wet flooring and an unexpected bill. Those are exactly the conditions in which it is easy to agree to a scope you do not fully understand.
Good plumbers welcome these questions. Their answers, and how willingly they give them, are part of how you choose.
About the contractor
- What is your CSLB license number? (Then look it up at cslb.ca.gov.)
- Does the name on the license match the business I am dealing with?
- Will your employees do the work, or subcontractors?
- Do you work in Anaheim Hills, and on slab leaks specifically?
About the leak
- Which system is leaking, hot or cold, and how did you confirm it?
- How confident are you in the location, and what makes you confident?
- Did you rule out toilets, irrigation and the yard service line?
- Is there more than one leak?
About the repair
- What are my options, spot repair, reroute or repipe, and which do you recommend for this house?
- Where exactly will you open the floor or walls?
- What pipe material will you use?
- Is a permit required for this scope, and will you pull it?
- How will you test the repair before closing up?
- What patching is included, and to what finish?
Answers that deserve a follow-up
| If you hear | Ask |
|---|---|
| You definitely need a full repipe, before any testing | What testing will confirm that, and can I see the results? |
| We never need permits for this | Has the City of Anaheim confirmed that for this scope? |
| We will figure out the route as we go | Can you describe or sketch the route before work starts? |
| Patching is extra, we will see | Can you put the patching scope and price in writing now? |
| Sign today for this price | How long is this quote valid if I want a second opinion? |
Get these in writing
- Detection findings, including which side and the location
- The chosen repair and what it includes
- Openings, patching and cleanup
- Permit responsibility
- Price and payment terms
- Any warranty the contractor offers, in their own words
Common questions
How many quotes should I get?
For a simple spot repair, one well-documented quote may be enough. For a reroute or repipe, two or three written quotes help you see what is normal for your house.
What does a CSLB lookup show?
It shows whether a license is active, the business name, its classifications and other public details. Check it before work starts.
Is it rude to ask all these questions?
No. A contractor who is confident in their work should be able to answer them clearly.
General information for Anaheim Hills, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.