Why ask at all during an emergency
When sewage is coming up in the shower, the instinct is to say yes to whoever can come. That is understandable, and a fast clearing is often the right call. But two or three questions on the phone take a minute and can save a dispute later: who is coming, how the job is priced, and what happens if the line cannot be cleared.
Repairs are different. Once the line is flowing, you usually have time to ask more, see the footage and compare options.
On the phone, before anyone comes
- What is your CSLB license number?
- Will the person coming be your employee or a subcontractor?
- How is the visit priced, and does timing change that?
- Is a camera inspection included or separate?
- What happens, and what does it cost, if the cable gets stuck or the line cannot be cleared?
On site, before work starts
- Where will you access the line, and will a toilet need to be pulled?
- Which method will you use first, and why?
- Can I get the price in writing before you begin?
- Will you show me what comes out and what the camera finds?
After the line is clear
- What caused the stoppage?
- How far out was it, and can you mark the spot above ground?
- Can I have a copy of the camera video?
- Do you expect it to happen again, and why?
- What are my options, with each one in writing?
Checking a license
Get the number
Ask for the CSLB license number, not just the company name.
Look it up
Search the number on the Contractors State License Board site at cslb.ca.gov.
Check status and class
Confirm the license is active and the classification fits plumbing or sewer work.
Match the name
Make sure the name on the license matches the business on your invoice.
What a good invoice shows
- Contractor name and CSLB license number.
- What was done, the method and the access point.
- What the camera found, if an inspection was done.
- Itemized charges matching what you agreed to.
Common questions
Is it rude to ask for a license number?
No. Licensed contractors are asked all the time, and a straightforward answer is a good sign.
Can I watch the camera inspection?
Most plumbers are happy to show you the screen. Ask before they start.
Can I use these questions with Fullerton Main Line Clog?
Yes, ask us the same questions. This is a preview site: the phone number shown is a temporary placeholder and the request form is not connected yet, so a submission is not sent anywhere for now.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.