ELON, N.C. — For more than 50 years Nancy Pennix has lived in a charming white ranch-style house in Elon. Nancy and her husband David love the home and the area but with older homes, there are often upgrades or repairs regularly.
Sometimes a problem pops up before you realize a fix is needed.
“I was washing (clothes) one day and (the) water backed up in the master bedroom,” Pennix said.
The plumbing backup caused extensive damage, as water poured onto the hardwood floors in the home. Pennix immediately contacted a plumber and a restoration company to address the issue.
The plumber who showed up determined there was a clog in the pipe and he would have to cut out a 30-foot section under the home. Pennix said the job took about three hours and she was charged almost $5,000.
“It felt like a lot of money,” Pennix said.
After paying the plumbing bill Pennix contacted a contractor to evaluate and replace the damaged hardwood floors. While that work was being done Pennix couldn’t stop thinking about the money she paid to have the plumbing issue fixed.
“I still feel like that was a lot for them to charge,” Pennix said.
Pennix continued to work with the contractor and the flooring company but couldn’t stop thinking about that plumbing bill. She tried to put it behind her and move forward but she couldn’t.
“I waited a week and started thinking I’m going to call News 2, 2 Wants to Know, and see if they can help me,” Pennix said.
Pennix sent us an email explaining the issue and the repairs. We had her send us a copy of the work order and the cost breakdown.
A couple of days later we contacted the owner and explained the situation. We provided the same documentation that the service technician gave Pennix and asked about the cost. The owner told us he would investigate the matter and get back in touch within a few days.
Pennix received a call not long after our call and after talking with the plumbing company a decision was made to refund her almost $2,200 for the work that was done.
“I thank you (News 2) because it never would have happened if I didn’t call you,” Pennix said.
If you find yourself in a situation like this the best thing to do is get an upfront cost so you are blindsided by a charge once the work is complete. If you don’t feel comfortable with the amount, then find another plumber to do the repairs.