Before you agree to the visit
- Get the contractor's business name and CSLB license number
- Look up the license at cslb.ca.gov and confirm it is active
- Ask whether the person coming is an employee or a subcontractor
- Ask how the visit is priced: flat rate, time-based or per service
- Ask what is not included, such as pulling a toilet or a camera run
- Confirm your Placentia address is in their service area
When the plumber arrives
- Show them your symptom log and cleanout location
- Ask where they will access the line and what equipment they will use
- Get the price or pricing method in writing before work starts
- Ask them to tell you before doing anything that changes the price
- Point out any chemical you poured down the drain
Before they leave
- Ask what came back on the cable: roots, grease, paper or wipes
- Run water in the fixtures that were backing up
- Ask whether a camera inspection is recommended, and why
- Get any repair recommendation in writing with its location
- Keep the invoice with the date, method and findings
Reassuring signs and warning signs
Reassuring
- License number offered without being asked
- Clear explanation of method and access
- Willing to show camera footage
- Written pricing before work starts
Worth a second look
- No license number or a name that does not match the lookup
- Pressure to approve a large repair on the spot
- Refusal to show footage behind a replacement recommendation
- Price that changes without explanation
Questions worth asking
- What would you do first if this were your house?
- What happens if the cable cannot get through?
- Do any repairs you suggest need a permit, and who pulls it?
- Can I have a copy of any video you record?
Common questions
What does a CSLB lookup show?
It shows whether a license is active, the business name it belongs to and its classification. Make sure the name matches who you are hiring.
Do I need a licensed plumber just to clear a clog?
Checking the license is a sensible habit for any plumbing work, and especially if the visit could lead to repair work.
Should I get more than one quote?
For an active backup, speed matters more. For a large repair recommendation, comparing written quotes is reasonable.
General information for Placentia, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.