Before you hire anyone for residential plumbing repair in La Palma

Ask for the CSLB license number and look it up at cslb.ca.gov. Make sure the name on the license matches the company you are dealing with.

Ask for the scope and price in writing before work begins, and ask that any change be explained and approved by you in writing before the extra work is done.

Ask up front. Many repairs are done at the fixture, but hidden leaks and sewer work can require access. Ask what will be opened, who restores it and whether that is included.

Ask whether the company's own employees or subcontractors will be in your home, and whether the person doing the work is supervised by the license holder.

For water heaters, repiping and sewer replacement, ask whether a permit is required and confirm the contractor will pull it. Check with the City of La Palma if unsure.

Ask what the contractor's policy is on callbacks for the same problem and get it in writing. Keep the invoice listing the parts and work done.