Legal Question in Construction Law in California

We had an unlicensed rooter/plumber perform a video sewer line inspection from our home to the street. We were not present during the inspection, but our property manager was. The rooter stated that the line was badly damaged and needed to be replaced at a cost of $10,000. I have a written estimate that describes the damaged sewer line.

We got a 2nd estimate from a licensed plumber who does not do video inspections. This plumbers' cost for the job was $6,855. Based on the video inspection and thinking we needed a new line, we went with the licensed plumber.

However, when he began the process of replacing the line - digging a trench in our yard and tunneling to reach the street - he discovered that the line was not damaged as the 1st plumber stated and did NOT need to be replaced. But by the time he discovered this he was well into the job and finished.

So the question is, can we get any money back or sue the 1st plumber for false information and have the 2nd plumber testify that the work did not need to be done?

thanks for your time

Paul


Asked on 10/18/11, 11:13 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

You can sure try, especially since your case fits nicely within the Small Claims Court jurisdictional limits as to size of claim. Before you file, obtain and read "Everybody's Guide to Small Calims Court in California" published by Nolo Press.

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Answered on 10/18/11, 9:14 pm


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