Checking a contractor in California

  1. Ask for the license number.California plumbing contractors are licensed by the Contractors State License Board. The number should appear on estimates, invoices and vehicles.
  2. Look it up.Enter the number at cslb.ca.gov. Confirm the business name matches, the license is active, and the classification covers plumbing work.
  3. Check the details.The CSLB record also shows bonding and workers' compensation information and any public complaints or actions.
  4. Confirm who will show up.Ask whether the work will be done by the company's own employees or by subcontractors.

What to expect on the visit

A good drain call starts with questions, not equipment. The plumber should ask which fixtures are affected and what you have already tried, look for the cleanout, and explain where they think the clog is before they start. If they propose cabling, jetting or a camera, they should say why.

When they finish, you should be able to see water draining properly from the affected fixtures, and hear a plain explanation of what caused the clog. If they recommend a repair, ask to see the evidence, usually camera footage, and take the written estimate away to think about it.

Red flags

  • No license number, or one that does not match the business name on cslb.ca.gov
  • Refusal to explain how the visit is priced before starting
  • Pressure to sign for a sewer replacement the same day
  • A repair recommendation with no footage or physical evidence
  • Cash-only demands or requests for a large upfront payment
  • Vague invoices that do not say what line was cleared or how

If the plumber recommends more than cleaning

  • IfThey recommend a camera inspectionThenReasonable for repeat clogs or older lines. Ask whether you can watch and keep the footage.
  • IfThey recommend jettingThenAsk what it adds over cabling for your line and whether the pipe is sound enough.
  • IfThey recommend excavation or trenchless repairThenGet the footage, a written scope and a second opinion from another licensed contractor.
  • IfThey mention permitsThenAsk who pulls the permit, and check with the City of Fullerton if anything is unclear.

Questions to ask before work starts

  1. What is your CSLB license number?
  2. Who will do the work, and are they your employees?
  3. Where do you think the clog is, and how will you clear it?
  4. How is the job priced, and can I have that in writing?
  5. What happens if the cable cannot get through?
  6. Will you show me the drain working before you leave?

Common questions

Do I need a licensed contractor just to clear a drain?

In California, contracting work generally requires a CSLB license, with limited exceptions for very small jobs. A licensed plumber is the safer choice for anything involving the main line.

Should I get a second opinion for a sewer repair?

For any large repair, yes. Another licensed contractor can review the same camera footage and give an independent written estimate.

What should I do if I rent?

Tell your landlord or property manager first, in writing. Many leases make the owner responsible for arranging plumbing repairs.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.