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Triple master contractor Ed Del Grande
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By Ed Del Grande
Q: Ed, I'm a contractor, and recently a very good customer of mine called me to check out rusty water coming out of all the plumbing fixtures. I looked at it with my plumber, who believes that the rust is not from the street line. He thinks it has to do with old galvanized pipe nipples stubbed out of the wall used to connect the hot and cold water lines to the fixtures. However, my plumber says he cannot be responsible if the old piping breaks in the wall when he removes the nipples, or once the nipples are changed and rusty water still comes out, it's not his fault! How do I even propose this job to the customer with no warranty for any of the work? Ryan (Washington, D.C.)
A: Ryan, part of being a contractor is also becoming a messenger for bad news to clients. Just like your plumber, who put all the cards on the table and told you what he found, you have to do the same for your clients. When dealing with old plumbing systems, especially with old materials such as lead or galvanized piping, in most cases you don't know how extensive the repair can be.
Best-case scenario is that all the old galvanized nipples come out easily; new brass nipples can be installed; and soon the rusty water goes away. Worst case, all the nipples break in the wall, the walls have to be opened up, re-piped and then the rusty water does not go away! Now you may be looking at very extensive repair costs.
The solution is "trust." Your customers need to know you are an honest contractor, and you will do the best you can. Point out to them that "anything" can happen, and they have to be prepared for this job mentally and financially before you start. On your end, keep them posted on every step of the job, or have them be at home while you and the plumber work so they know you're doing everything possible to keep the costs down. You sound like a good person. If you're hard-working and always truthful to your customers, they will trust you with their homes. That's what allows a successful contractor to earn an honest buck!
Ed Del Grande was born and raised in a family-owned plumbing business. With more than 25 years of experience in every aspect of construction, he holds current Master licenses in pipefitting, fire protection and plumbing. If you have a question for Ed, send him an e-mail at eddelgrande@hgtvpro.com.
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