Plumbing Scams to Watch Out For This Season

The need for plumbing services doesn’t go away even around Christmas time. Unfortunately, plumbing scams can slip under the radar due to all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. These scams typically occur during this time of year when people are busy with family gatherings and parties. Skeen Plumbing & Gas is a professional plumber in Jackson, MS , and we want you to be aware of some plumbing scammers that make their way around the holidays and how to avoid falling victim.

1. The Bait and Switch

This is a tactic where a scammer knocks on your door, offering to do a small service for cheap, with the promise that you’ll have their number in case you need further assistance. Once they’re at your house, they will charge you much more for unnecessary plumbing services.

2. Withholding Information

A so-called plumbing contractor may knock on your door and offer plumbing services. They may tell you they can fix that clogged drain or broken toilet in no time. One of the first things to do is ask them to show you their license and proof of insurance. Be very wary if someone is trying to charge you for plumbing repairs without showing you this information, then it’s a good bet that something is wrong.

3. Too Many People Show Up

You might open your door and be faced with multiple people wanting to offer plumbing services. This is a common scam tactic that creates confusion for homeowners. Homeowners often let them into their houses because they feel bad about turning them away. You need to know that if the state does not license these people, they cannot work in your home, even for emergency plumbing purposes.

4. Estimate Keeps Changing

Another thing to look out for is an up-sell scam. A supposed plumbing company will ask for a small service fee and then add extra charges that end up being much more than the initial estimate. When you pay them to fix things, they will try and get you to agree to another repair that can easily be done for a small fee or even cheaper. The best way to avoid this is by knowing what kind of work you need to be done. If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

Skeen Plumbing & Gas is licensed and insured to work in your area and would love the opportunity to serve you. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.