Discovering that a plumber did poor work — a leak that wasn’t there before, a repair that failed quickly, code violations found during a later inspection — is frustrating and potentially expensive. Here’s what to do, in order.

“Homeowners in this situation have more options than they think — but the window to use them effectively narrows fast. Document everything immediately, before anything is repaired. That documentation is what makes every subsequent step possible.”

— Dana Reyes, licensed master plumber and plumbing inspector with 21 years of experience in residential and commercial plumbing in many regions

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What to Do If a Plumber Does Bad Work 1

Step 1: Document the Problem Immediately

Before anything is touched, repaired, or cleaned up:

  • Photograph and video the issue from multiple angles
  • Note the date you discovered the problem and what you observed
  • Record what work was done, when it was done, and by whom
  • Keep all invoices, receipts, and written communications with the plumber

This documentation is the foundation of every option that follows.

Step 2: Contact the Plumber in Writing

Notify the plumber about the problem in writing — by email or text — so there’s a record. Describe the issue clearly: what failed, when you discovered it, and what you believe the cause is. Ask for their response in writing and request a timeline for resolution.

If the issue falls within the workmanship warranty period, the repair should be done at no charge. A plumber who refuses to respond or denies responsibility for obvious workmanship defects is escalating to the next step.

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Step 3: Review Your Contract and Warranty

Go back to whatever documentation you have — the quote, the invoice, any written warranty. What does it say about defects in workmanship? What is the warranty period? What’s the process for making a claim?

If you don’t have a written warranty, you may still have recourse under regional consumer protection legislation, which in many jurisdictions implies a minimum standard of workmanship even without a written guarantee.

Step 4: File a Complaint with the Licensing Body

If the plumber is licensed and refuses to remedy defective work, file a complaint with the regional licensing authority:

Licensing bodies can investigate complaints, require remediation, and in serious cases, suspend or revoke a plumber’s licence. Filing a complaint also creates a record that other homeowners can see when they check the plumber’s licence status.

Step 5: Make an Insurance Claim if There Is Property Damage

If the defective work caused property damage — a leak that damaged flooring, a failed fitting that flooded a room — contact your home insurer. Describe the situation, provide your documentation, and ask whether your policy covers contractor-caused damage.

If the plumber carries liability insurance, their insurer may be the appropriate party for the property damage claim. Ask the plumber to initiate that process.

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Step 6: Small Claims Court for Unresolved Disputes

If the plumber refuses to fix defective work and the licensing body complaint doesn’t resolve the issue, small claims court is an option for disputes within the monetary limit (up to $35,000 in many regions as of 2026). The process is designed to be accessible without a lawyer, though legal advice is helpful for larger claims.

Document everything clearly: the original contract, the defective work, what remediation you requested, what the plumber’s response was, and what it cost you to fix the problem.

How to Protect Yourself Before It Gets Here

The best time to avoid this situation is before hiring:

  • Verify the plumber’s licence
  • Confirm insurance and workers’ compensation coverage
  • Get a written quote with a scope of work
  • Ask for a written workmanship warranty before paying

See: Questions to Ask a Plumber Before You Hire One

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