I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding the plumbing services performed by Douglas Saint LLC under Angi Reference Number 327734749.
The agreed scope of work was to install a new cleanout on my basement sewer line and clear the sewer clog.
The plumber arrived at approximately 10:00 a.m. on the first day with an assistant. Throughout the job, I observed that the assistant performed much of the physical work while the plumber repeatedly spoke to him in a disrespectful and demeaning manner. I found this behavior extremely unprofessional.
During the course of the work, I repeatedly asked the plumber what he believed the cause of the blockage was and what additional work, if any, might be necessary. He would not provide me with a clear explanation or estimate.
The plumber also left the job site for approximately one hour to obtain parts, despite the fact that I had previously sent videos showing the existing cleanout and the parts that would likely be required.
The work created a significant sewage spill in my basement. Sewage was left on my basement floor, and a large container of sewage waste remained in my basement overnight after the plumber left around 2:45 p.m. He advised that he had another appointment and stated he would return later that day to complete the cleanup, but he never returned.
He came back the following morning. In my opinion, the cleanup was completely inadequate. Sewage residue remained on my basement floor, and I now have to hire a professional company to properly disinfect and sanitize the affected area due to the health hazards associated with raw sewage.
Another issue that greatly concerned me was how the sewage waste was disposed of. Rather than disposing of it properly, the plumber emptied the contents of the large container into my sump pump. I specifically informed him that my sump pump discharges into my backyard. He responded, Dont worry about it. Its good for the grass, and proceeded anyway.
As a result, I now have sewage-contaminated water discharged into my yard, where my grandchildren regularly play. I am extremely concerned about the health and sanitation risks this has created.
The most disturbing part of this experience occurred when it came time for payment.
At no point before completing the work did the plumber provide me with the total price. After finishing, he demanded $900. When I questioned the amount because it had never been disclosed beforehand, his demeanor changed dramatically.
Earlier, he had asked whether I would pay in cash and suggested the price would be better if I did so. I told him I would consider paying cash, but I never made any commitment to do so. At the time of payment, he still had not told me the total amount in advance. When he demanded $900, I informed him I only had $600 in cash on hand.
He then insisted that I withdraw additional money and suggested he would drive me to an ATM to obtain the remaining balance. I refused, as I was not comfortable with this arrangement. I was also becoming concerned for my personal welfare due to his erratic posturing and increasingly aggressive demeanor.
When I requested a receipt, he told me he would not provide one. I explained that I needed a receipt because I intended to submit the expense to my homeowners insurance company for possible reimbursement. He still refused.
His behavior then became increasingly hostile. He was sarcastic, argumentative, used profanity, and repeatedly demanded cash. I recorded portions of this interaction on video because I became concerned by his conduct.
I eventually contacted Angi while the dispute was occurring. The representative advised me not to make any payment while the complaint was being investigated. I was further instructed that if the plumber contacted me or returned to my home, I should direct him to communicate through Angi, and if he came to my property and refused to leave or became threatening, I should contact 911.
At this point, I am genuinely concerned for my safety because of the plumbers behavior and the manner in which the situation escalated.
I respectfully request that Angi conduct a thorough investigation into this matter. My concerns include:
Failure to disclose the total cost before demanding payment.
Pressuring me to pay in cash instead of by check.
Refusal to provide a receipt.
Hostile, aggressive, and unprofessional behavior, including profanity.
Leaving my basement contaminated with sewage and performing an inadequate cleanup.
Disposing of sewage waste into my sump pump discharge despite being informed that it empties into my backyard.
Leaving me with additional expenses for professional cleaning and sanitization.
Conduct that caused me to fear for my personal safety.
I have photographs and video recordings documenting portions of the work, the condition of my basement, and the interaction regarding payment, and I am willing to provide them if requested.
Thank you for your attention to this serious matter. I look forward to your investigation and resolution.