Side-by-side worksheet
| Item | Quote A | Quote B | Quote C |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSLB license number checked at cslb.ca.gov | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Work done by employees or subcontractors | |||
| Method: cutting, jetting, lining, excavation | |||
| Length or section of pipe covered | |||
| Camera before and after included | |||
| Video provided to you | |||
| Permit included and who obtains it | |||
| Surface restoration (lawn, concrete) included | |||
| What could change the price | |||
| Total in writing |
Comparing like with like
A lower total sometimes leaves out the camera inspection, the permit, or putting the lawn and walkway back afterward. A higher total may include a liner over a longer stretch of pipe, or a final camera check. The worksheet makes those differences visible before you sign.
If one quote is for a different approach entirely, such as lining versus digging, note what each would leave behind. A spot repair leaves the rest of an older line in place; a full replacement or long liner does not.
Gaps to fill before choosing
- Any blank cell on the worksheet: ask the contractor to answer it in writing.
- Whether the contractor saw the same camera footage as the others.
- How any surprises during the work will be handled and approved.
- What records you will get at the end: invoice, footage, permit sign-off.
Tie-breakers
- IfTwo quotes cover the same scopeThenCompare how clearly each explains the work and answers your questions.
- IfOne quote includes final camera footage and one does notThenAsk the other to add it, or weigh that difference.
- IfOne contractor will pull the permit and the other will notThenFactor in the time it would take you to handle it with the city.
- IfYou still cannot tell the differenceThenAsk each contractor what the other quote is missing, and judge the answers.
Questions to ask each contractor
- What exactly does this price include and exclude?
- What would make the final cost different from this quote?
- Will you provide before and after camera footage?
- Who obtains the permit, and is the inspection included?
Common questions
How many quotes should I get for a sewer repair?
For larger repairs many homeowners get two or three. For an urgent clearing, one verified licensed plumber is often enough.
Can I share one plumber's footage with another?
Yes, if you have a copy. It lets other contractors quote based on the same findings.
Why are there no sample prices here?
We do not publish prices on this preview site. Root work varies too much, and only written quotes for your line are meaningful.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.