NO CONTRACT: A contractor may try to inflate the price. Don’t sign a contract unless it specifies all key details, including how much will be paid and when.

SCARE TACTICS AND HIGH PRESSURE: Some contractors who try to rush you into costly action should be avoided. If …faced with a high pressure pitch, take time to get another opinion.

USING LOW-QUALITY MATERIALS BUT CHARGING FOR BETTER: A contractor may promise to use the best parts and charge for it, but could be using lower quality parts. Ask for a parts list and compare brand types of materials on the invoice.

PLANTING EVIDENCE: To avoid this ask a technician to videotape/photograph something identifiable near your sewer cleanout. Hire only contractors with proven records of good customer satisfaction.