When it comes to maintaining the drains in your home or business, drainage issues are inevitable. Whether it’s a minor clog or a more serious blockage, you’ll likely need to hire a professional for drain cleaning in Seattle, WA. However, there are many unscrupulous individuals looking to take advantage of customers. To help you avoid falling victim to scams, here are some common drain cleaning scams and how you can protect yourself.
1. The “Low-Price” Bait and Switch
One of the most common drain cleaning scams involves companies offering incredibly low prices over the phone, only to hike up the cost significantly once they arrive at your property. They may claim to have “found additional issues” with your pipes, requiring costly repairs. A legitimate drain cleaning company will assess the problem and provide a quote based on the work involved.
2. Unnecessary Hydro Jetting Services
Hydro jetting is a powerful cleaning technique that uses high-pressure water to clear debris in pipes. However, some dishonest companies will try to upsell hydro jetting services as a cure-all solution when a drain snaking process would have sufficed.
3. “Free” Inspections That Aren’t Really Free
While free inspections may sound appealing, they can be a way for scammers to gain access to your home and pressure you into unnecessary services or products. The inspector might find “problems” that need immediate attention, leading to inflated repair bills.While many legitimate businesses do offer free estimates, ensure that the inspection is truly free with no obligation to avail of drain cleaning services.
4. Fake Reviews and Testimonials
Some companies may inflate their reputation by posting fake reviews online or using testimonials that don’t accurately reflect their services. These can be difficult to spot but can leave you feeling misled once you hire them for something as routine as drain maintenance or more complex repairs. If a company only has glowing reviews or no reviews at all, it could be a red flag. Ask for referrals from people you trust or check third-party review sites for a more balanced perspective.
5. Overcharging for Simple Repairs
Another scam involves overcharging customers for simple drain cleaning tasks. After offering a minimal price, scammers may present a high invoice for work that was unnecessary or not performed as promised. Get a second opinion if a repair estimate seems unusually high for a simple clogged drain. Transparent companies will provide a breakdown of costs and explain why certain tasks are necessary.
How to Protect Yourself
Always check for proper licensing and insurance. A legitimate drain cleaning company should be fully licensed, insured, and provide clear estimates. Be sure to understand all charges before signing any agreement. Watch out for hidden fees or vague language in contracts.
Stay informed, and don’t let scams drain your wallet. Contact Pro Sewer Repair for reliable drain cleaning services.