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jeannesimari · May 10, 2011, 12:02 AM

Called a plumber to release a clog. They did and, for no charge, put a camera the line to see why it clogged. The found a spot in the line where it seems there is a dip and water is collecting. The water is clear, not muddy, and there are no roots in the line. Part of it is orangeburg which they say is blistered and failing and the whole line needs to be replaced. They convinced me it was needed, took a $500 deposit, and scheduled the work for tomorrow. They asked me to sign a waiver of my right to cancel since it was scheduled in the morning. I think I got taken. That line was perfectly round and I wonder if all 50 year old sewer lines are not perfectly straight any longer and may sag in places. I saw some video on the internet of failing orangebug and it was collapsing but mine isn't. I called them at midnight and told them something came up and I have to reschedule the job. Need time to find out if this is a scam.

hkstroud · May 10, 2011, 03:16 AM

I think I would be a little skeptical also. Plumbers usually charge a fair fee to run camera down a line. To volunteer to do it for free is unusual. The ground may have shifted over time but slump or belly in a line would have probably been there since it was installed. If the orangeburg is unraveling you should have seen it.

I also doubt that you can legally sign away your right to cancel.
To be able to schedule such a job for the next day is also unusual.

joypulv · May 10, 2011, 03:38 AM

It doesn't sound like a scam, but you didn't bother to get another quote, so may be overcharged somewhat, maybe not. You signed the waiver and I don't know if you have state laws re time to get out of a deposit, but it may cost you more than it's worth to sue for it back.
I wouldn't want orangeberg still being used in my sewer line.
You allowed this to happen, so I'd let them proceed and be there as they work. Don't let them replace anything but orangeberg.
Bellies, dips, are common. They can cause problems or not.
Tell them that you know everybody in town and can let everyone know how wonderful they are, or how much they gouged you.

jeannesimari · May 10, 2011, 10:52 AM

I did cancel the job and they didn't give me a hard time. They offered me a free toilet upgrade to entice me and I said no. Saw some video on line of what a pipe looks like that needs to be replaced and mine looks round and intact everywhere. No roots whatsoever so that means so cracks. Water in the slump was crystal clear and not muddy. Orangeburg is in tact also. Thank you so much for your help. I'm happy about my choice.

massplumber2008 · May 10, 2011, 05:07 PM

Hi Jeannesimari...

OK for now, that's great, for sure!

But be clear, orangeburg is a pipe material that will probably be an issue for you soon enough, so I just wanted to pop in and suggest that you start a collection jar and save your dimes, nickels and quarters because you will eventually need to replace that line... ;)

Good luck!

Mark