Terms & Conditions

MCM Plumbing® — Terms & Conditions and Service Disclaimers

This page is the single, authoritative source for MCM Plumbing® Terms & Conditions and all service-specific disclaimers.
Links from individual service pages may direct here for full details. Please review this page in its entirety before approving work.

1. Overview

By using our services, submitting a service request, or visiting our website, you acknowledge and agree to these Terms & Conditions. Website content is provided for general information and advertising purposes only and does not constitute a contractual promise of services, methods, schedules, or outcomes. The scope of any job is defined only by a written estimate, work order, or signed agreement.

2. Contractor Licensing

We are licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) with the following classifications:

• Class A – General Engineering Contractor
• C-36 – Plumbing Contractor
• C-34 – Pipeline Contractor

Licenses authorize scope but do not supersede state, county, or city permit requirements. Services are performed by or directly supervised by licensed professionals in compliance with applicable codes and standards. Insurance coverage, job eligibility, and required documentation may depend on policy terms and underwriting guidelines.

3. Free Estimates

• Free estimates apply when:
  • A clear description of the requested service is provided, and
  • Photos, plans, measurements, or specifications are submitted beforehand (when applicable).
• Diagnostics not included:
  • Camera inspections, disassembly, investigative troubleshooting (e.g., opening walls, digging, testing) may incur fees.
  • We will notify you before any billable diagnostic work is performed.
• Non-binding: Estimates are valid for 30 days and may change due to jobsite conditions, parts availability, or further discovery.

4. Permit Responsibility

Permits, inspections, and agency approvals are the customer’s responsibility unless explicitly included in a signed contract. MCM Plumbing® may assist with coordination when requested but is not liable for regulatory timelines, denials, or outcomes outside our control.

5. Scope of Work

Estimates are based on visible and disclosed conditions. If concealed issues (e.g., root intrusion, corrosion, structural damage, code deficiencies, prior improper work) are discovered, work may pause and a revised quote will be issued for approval before proceeding.

6. Service Area

Our core service region includes Merced and surrounding Central Valley communities. Travel and mobilization fees may apply outside our primary service area.

7. Warranty

• Residential Work: One-year workmanship warranty unless otherwise stated in writing.
• Drain Cleaning: 30-day limited warranty on the same drain and blockage.
  • No warranty if the line is broken, misaligned, has root intrusion, heavy scale, bellies/settlement, or lacks accessible cleanout access.
  • Warranty is voided by improper use (grease, wipes, foreign objects, etc.).
• Hydro-Jetting: 90-day limited warranty (case-by-case) valid only with cleanout access and a structurally sound line.
• Commercial/Industrial/Agricultural Drains: No warranties on drain systems.
• Camera Inspections: Diagnostic only; no warranty.
• Parts: Covered by manufacturer warranty; we assist with claims when possible.

8. Payment

Payment is due upon job completion unless otherwise agreed in writing. We accept credit cards, checks, and ACH. Late balances may incur a 1.5% monthly fee or the maximum allowed by law.

9. Liability

• We are not responsible for pre-existing conditions, undisclosed defects, or failures of aging systems.
• We are not liable for prior or future work performed by other contractors, owners, or third parties.
• We are not responsible for damages due to hidden conditions, unknown system defects, or inaccessible components.
• No guarantee of system performance or future operation beyond the scope of the approved work.
• To the extent permitted by law, liability is limited to the total amount paid for our services unless otherwise required by law.

10. Cancellations

We require 24-hour notice for cancellations or reschedules when possible. Missed appointments, late cancellations, or situations where access cannot be provided upon arrival may be subject to a trip charge or minimum service fee, as permitted by law and based on technician availability.

11. Scheduling & Arrival Policy

We schedule most service appointments using an estimated two (2) hour arrival window. While we make every effort to arrive within the scheduled window, arrival times are not guaranteed due to factors such as traffic, prior job complexity, emergency calls, parts availability, and jobsite conditions.

• Communication if delayed: If we anticipate arriving outside the scheduled window, we will make a reasonable effort to contact you using the phone number or email provided. You are responsible for ensuring your contact information is accurate and reachable on the day of service.
• Call-ahead requests: If you prefer a call or text before dispatch/arrival, please request this when booking. We will do our best to accommodate; however, call-ahead timing may vary based on routing and service conditions.
• Waiting / standby time (customer not ready): If arrival requires customer availability (unlocking a gate/door, confirming entry, providing access), we may wait up to thirty (30) minutes when possible before moving to the next scheduled call. If we must leave due to no access/response, the visit may be treated as a missed appointment and may be subject to a trip charge (see Cancellations).
• No response at arrival: Upon arrival, we will make reasonable attempts to contact you (knocking/ringing and calling/texting). If there is no response, we may wait approximately 15–30 minutes depending on schedule constraints before departing to the next call.
• Text / call communications consent: By requesting service and providing a phone number, you consent to receive calls and text messages (including appointment confirmations, ETA updates, scheduling changes, and service-related communications). Message and data rates may apply. If you prefer email-only communication, please request it when booking; doing so may impact real-time ETA updates.

12. Updates

Terms & Conditions are subject to change. The current version is always available at MCM Plumbing Terms & Conditions.

13. Customer Responsibilities

• Provide clear, safe access to the work area.
• Secure pets and restrict access to children and unauthorized individuals.
• Disclose known hazards, jobsite limitations, or HOA restrictions.
• Notify MCM Plumbing® of required access times, noise limits, and site-specific restrictions.

14. Third-Party Materials & Labor

We are not responsible for compatibility, performance, or defects in customer-provided or third-party materials, parts, fixtures, appliances, or labor.

15. Dispute Resolution

Disputes shall be addressed through good-faith communication. If unresolved, disputes may be pursued in small claims court or a court of competent jurisdiction in Merced County, California. California law governs this agreement.

16. Trademarks

“MCM Plumbing” and associated branding are registered property. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

17. Subcontractors

MCM Plumbing® does not currently utilize subcontractors for active projects or routine services. All work is performed by MCM Plumbing® employees under licensed supervision. If subcontractors are engaged in the future for specialized or overflow work, they must:

• Hold required and current California contractor licenses for their trade classification;
• Carry valid general liability and workers’ compensation insurance;
• Name MCM Plumbing® as an additional insured; and
• Comply with state, local, and OSHA safety requirements.

Subcontractors, if ever used, will operate under written agreements defining scope, safety, and insurance verification. MCM Plumbing® may reject or terminate any subcontractor that fails to meet these requirements.

18. No Design or Engineering Services

MCM Plumbing® does not provide architectural, engineering, or structural design services. Any such liability is expressly disclaimed.

19. Project Scope Limitations

• No work above two stories unless agreed in writing.
• No landfill, hazardous material, or OCIP/wrap-insured jobs unless agreed in writing.

20. Hold Harmless & Indemnification

Customer agrees to hold MCM Plumbing® harmless against third-party claims unless arising from our gross negligence or willful misconduct.

21. Insurance Exclusions

• No coverage for mold, asbestos, lead, or hazardous materials.
• No coverage for design liability, cyber events, pandemics, war, or terrorism.
• Coverage applies only to services within the lawful scope of license, written contract, and jobsite conditions.

Customer agrees not to pursue claims related to these exclusions.

22. Website Content, Photos/Videos & Insurance Scope

Our website, service pages, photos, videos, and marketing materials are provided for general information and advertising purposes only. They do not describe or alter insurance coverage, do not create a guarantee of services, methods, schedules, or outcomes, and do not override any policy terms, endorsements, underwriting requirements, or exclusions.

• Illustrative media: Photos/videos may depict general concepts or past work and may not reflect current jobsite conditions, active work in progress, or the exact methods/equipment used on every project.
• Scope is defined in writing: Actual work performed is governed by the written estimate/work order/contract, applicable codes, permit requirements, and jobsite conditions.
• COIs and coverage questions: Certificates of insurance (COIs) and coverage confirmations, when needed, are provided through our agent/insurer upon request and are subject to policy terms and underwriting.

23. Service Methods, Safety Requirements & Specialty Conditions

MCM Plumbing® is licensed to perform work within our CSLB classifications; however, the specific method, scope, and means of construction for any project depend on jobsite conditions, utility locating, permit/inspection requirements, applicable safety standards, equipment access, and the written agreement. Nothing on this website is intended to promise that a specific method (including trenchless or deep excavation) will be used on every project.

• Deep excavation / trenches: When excavation is required, depth, access, soil conditions, groundwater, and nearby structures/utilities may impact the approach. Excavations exceeding four (4) feet may require protective systems (e.g., shoring, shielding/trench boxes, or sloping/benching) and may require engineered designs, special equipment, additional permitting, inspection requirements, schedule changes, and added costs.
• Directional boring / trenchless methods: Trenchless approaches (including boring where applicable) may be considered based on feasibility, access, soil/subsurface conditions, utility congestion, permitting, and inspection requirements. Final method selection may change based on field conditions or third-party requirements (e.g., utility owners, inspectors).
• Gas-related work: Gas-related work, when performed, is completed in accordance with applicable codes and any required permit/inspection process. Scope, scheduling, and final approval may be affected by utility coordination, inspection availability, and jobsite conditions.
• Right to pause or revise scope: If concealed conditions, safety concerns, code issues, or access limitations are discovered, work may be paused and a revised estimate or change order may be required before proceeding.

24. Nonrefundable Fees

Trip, permit, inspection, and administrative fees are fully earned once service is initiated and are nonrefundable, as permitted by law.

25. Financing & Deposits

Deposits are nonrefundable once work begins. Cancellations may result in administrative or restocking fees.

• Per California law: Residential contracts over $500 are limited to a $1,000 deposit or 10% of the contract value, whichever is less.
  
  CSLB Home Improvement Contract guidance
  .

26. Right to Cancel (Residential Only)

For most California residential home-improvement agreements signed at your home or off-site, you have the right to cancel within three (3) business days after you receive a signed and dated copy of the contract that includes this notice. You may cancel by emailing, mailing, faxing, or delivering a written notice to MCM Plumbing® by midnight of the third business day. If you cancel within this period, any payments made will be returned within 10 days as required by law.

Note: Some projects have different cancellation rules. Certain emergency “service and repair” work may limit or waive the three-day right once work begins, and extended cancellation periods may apply for senior citizens or declared disaster restoration work.

CSLB cancellation rules and exceptions
.

27. Mechanics Lien Warning

Anyone who provides labor, services, or materials to improve your property and is not paid may have the right to record a mechanics lien against your property. This can include subcontractors, suppliers, or laborers hired through a contractor. Even if you pay your prime contractor in full, unpaid parties may still pursue a lien.

To protect yourself, request written lien releases with each progress payment and consider joint checks when paying for work performed by subcontractors or materials delivered by suppliers. You may also receive a “Preliminary Notice” from subs or suppliers — this is not a lien, it is a standard notice required to preserve their lien rights.

For more details on lien protection, see:

CSLB Mechanics Lien guidance
. (California Civil Code §8400 et seq.; B&P Code §7159)

28. CSLB Verification

Verify license status at www.cslb.ca.gov. MCM Plumbing® is licensed and insured under California law.

Commercial Plumbing Services Disclaimer

MCM Plumbing® provides commercial plumbing services in compliance with state and local codes. Because commercial systems may involve complex infrastructure and third-party components, warranties and guarantees apply only to materials, workmanship, and installations directly provided by MCM Plumbing®.

Clients must maintain access, electrical power, and system readiness before service. Work required to bring existing systems up to code will be quoted separately. We may decline work that cannot be performed safely or in compliance with applicable code requirements.

Commercial pricing may vary based on permits, inspection timelines, and utility coordination. Unless explicitly stated in writing, system performance for pre-existing or customer-supplied components is not guaranteed.

Trenchless / No-Dig Approaches

“No-dig” or “trenchless” approaches (including boring where applicable) may be considered depending on site conditions, utility locating, access, permits/inspections, and feasibility. Subsurface conditions (soil, groundwater, unmarked obstacles, and existing pipe condition) can impact results, and the final method selection may change based on field conditions or third-party requirements.

We are not liable for damages caused by concealed, unknown, or unmarked obstacles, or inaccurate utility markings. Engineering, easements, and permits may be required. Post-installation engineering certification is excluded unless stated in writing.

Hydro-Jetting & Drain Cleaning

High-pressure jetting and mechanical cleaning remove obstructions and restore flow; they do not repair pipe defects or guarantee future performance. Older, deteriorated, undersized, misaligned, or improperly sloped piping may crack, collapse, or allow equipment to bind during service. MCM Plumbing® is not liable for damage caused by pre-existing pipe conditions.

• Access: Clear, code-compliant cleanout required for jetting and camera work unless otherwise stated.
• Camera: Pre/post camera documentation recommended; not included unless purchased or listed on estimate.
• Recurring clogs: Often indicate broken pipe, root intrusion, offsets, bellies/settlement, heavy scale, or improper slope; corrective repair is outside basic cleaning.
• Equipment retrieval: If cables, nozzles, or cameras become lodged or damaged due to line condition, customer is responsible for retrieval/repair costs.
• Fixtures: Removing/reinstalling toilets, traps, or fixtures for access is a separate service unless included.
• Hydro-jetting warranty: 90-day limited warranty (case-by-case) only where cleanout access exists and line is structurally sound. No warranty on lines with roots, breaks, heavy scale, or improper slope.
• Drain cleaning warranty: 30-day limited warranty on the same drain and blockage, subject to exclusions and proper use.
• Septic/leach lines: Jetting is without warranty due to soil/system variables.

Camera / Video Pipe Inspection

Video inspection is diagnostic; it documents internal pipe conditions and does not repair defects or guarantee future performance. Older, corroded, offset, or improperly sloped piping may crack, collapse, or obstruct equipment during service. MCM Plumbing® is not liable for damage caused by pre-existing conditions.

• Access requirement: Clear, code-compliant cleanout required unless otherwise stated; removing/reinstalling fixtures is separate unless included.
• Deliverables: When included, video and/or still images may be provided by a method of our choosing; storage/archival is not guaranteed.
• Location marking: Depths/locations are approximate based on equipment and site conditions; not a survey.
• Obstructions & retrieval: Customer is responsible for retrieval costs if cameras/sondes/pushrods become lodged or damaged due to line condition.
• Recurring issues: Repeat blockages typically indicate structural defects; repair/replacement/lining is outside diagnostic scope.
• No result warranty: Findings are a snapshot in time and may change with use/conditions.

Gas Line Services

Gas-related work, when performed, is completed by qualified personnel in accordance with applicable safety codes and any required permit/inspection process. Job conditions, permitting, utility coordination, and inspection availability may affect scheduling, scope, and completion timelines.

• Testing & verification: When applicable, installations and repairs include pressure testing and leak verification before activation.
• Customer responsibilities: Provide access for inspectors/utilities, disclose restrictions, and supply accurate utility information where applicable.
• Exclusions: Not responsible for third-party utility issues, existing corrosion, structural shifts, or seismic/environmental events.
• Permits: Permits/inspections may be required; coordination can add time/cost.
• Warranty: Manufacturer warranties apply to supplied parts; workmanship warranty applies only where expressly stated in writing.
• Compatibility: Owner-provided appliances/valves/connections installed at owner’s risk if not verified for code compliance.

Water Heater Services

Installations/replacements include diagnostic and start-up services. No warranty on customer-supplied units. Manufacturer warranties apply where applicable. We are not responsible for failures, leaks, electrical issues, T&P discharges, code problems, or compatibility concerns where we did not supply/install the complete system.

• Pre-existing plumbing/venting/electrical issues.
• Inadequate water pressure, mineral buildup, or water quality problems.
• Undersizing/oversizing dictated by customer preference.
• Utility shutdowns, code changes, or equipment recalls.

Excavation Services

All digging is performed per applicable safety requirements, including utility locating and safe excavation practices. We are not responsible for damage to unmarked lines, abandoned tanks, irrigation, concrete, buried debris, or septic components.

• Utility locating: Customers are responsible for allowing adequate time for utility marking (e.g., 811). Private utilities may require private locating.
• Protective systems & engineering: Depth, soil type, groundwater, and nearby structures/utilities may require protective systems (e.g., shoring, shielding/trench boxes, or sloping/benching), engineered designs, special equipment, additional permitting, inspections, schedule changes, and added costs.
• Hidden conditions: Additional charges may apply if rock, concrete, tanks, hardpan, or buried obstructions are encountered.
• Dewatering/backfill/compaction: Dewatering, shoring, engineered backfill, or compaction testing may be required by jobsite or permit conditions.

Repiping Services

Repiping includes replacement of piping only unless specifically stated. We are not liable for:

• Damage to walls, floors, ceilings, fixtures, or landscaping unless explicitly included.
• Failures or leaks in retained existing valves, hose bibs, supply lines, or fixtures.
• Water quality issues, noise, thermal expansion, or design limitations of the existing system.

Cosmetic restoration (drywall, paint, flooring, tile, texture) is excluded unless expressly stated. If hazardous materials, structural issues, or unusual routing are discovered, we may pause and issue a revised estimate.

Property Restoration

We do not restore disturbed surfaces unless explicitly included. Concrete, asphalt, landscape, drywall, paint, and finishes are the owner’s responsibility unless otherwise stated in writing.

Property Damage (Access)

We are not responsible for incidental damage required to access concealed plumbing. All due care is used, but necessary cuts to drywall, cabinets, or flooring are the owner’s responsibility unless otherwise stated in the contract.

Safety & Site Access

Customers must ensure a safe, interruption-free worksite. Pets must be secured and children kept away. We may stop work if conditions are unsafe, disruptive, or access is restricted. Additional charges may apply for delays, return trips, or standby time.

Disclaimer of Results

We make no guarantees of long-term system performance beyond the scope of service provided. Plumbing systems are subject to failure due to age, condition, or external factors. Warranty exclusions and disclaimers apply.

Work Documentation & Photography

MCM Plumbing® may document jobsite conditions, progress, and completion via photos or video for internal use, quality assurance, training, advertising, or dispute resolution. Images/footage may be used for marketing unless the customer opts out in writing prior to publication.

Call, Vehicle & Equipment Tracking Disclosure

MCM Plumbing® may record inbound/outbound calls for training, quality assurance, and dispute resolution. Service vehicles and select equipment may use GPS, dash cameras, or other monitoring technology for safety, theft prevention, logistics, documentation, and liability protection. Certain tools may include cameras to document worksite conditions.

All recordings, images, audio files, and GPS data are the exclusive property of MCM Plumbing®. Recordings will not be released publicly except as legally required or in formal claims/disputes.

Office & Facility Surveillance

Our office and yard facilities use video surveillance for staff, customer, and property safety. Footage is retained per internal policies and may be used for lawful operational, investigative, or legal purposes.