Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing

I called yesterday (not an urgent call) and they were able to schedule me the next day. The service person called before arriving, and arrived at the early side of the estimated 2 hour time block. He went quickly to work, and then at the end, showed me what the pipe looked like and advised on when we should next get it cleaned (it's a 100+ year old sewer pipe, so the roots regularly grow in). Overall, very professional and positive experience!

Jim Dandy provided the lowest estimate out of 3 estimates. While they were quite responsive initially during the bidding process and initial work, the project manager proved unresponsive to phone calls during the latter part of the installation. Kyle, one of the team who did the initial camera work was very responsive to phone calls, even when his part of the job was done. We also had a problem with our neighbors' parkways being disturbed (tire tracks which tore up the grass, piles of dirt on plants) during installation. One neighbor reportedly had great difficulty communicating with the project manager about repairing her parkway; I'm not sure how or if it was resolved to her satisfaction.

I delayed writing this because there were a few mishaps (from my perspective). I am a very hard grader. I am in the healthcare service industry as a patient advocate and have been in customer service for 30+ years. The company owner responded to my Angie's list inquiry the same day (that was very nice) I was told their lead would contact me. This happened a couple of times - in that I was told person A would call/'be there' but it ended up being person B or not at all. Same with the crews. This isn't a deal breaker but it was bothersome to me. The price for the initial work was very reasonable in my opinion and they were prompt to work us into the schedule. We were not in dire straits which gave us some edge - I cannot imagine what this process is like for someone with an immediate need. Note I joined Angies' List only because I anticipated this being a large expense. Although it was a great asset it is disturbing that my impression is that Angie's List client's are preferred customers. I think Angie's List might consider donating some access to people who may not be able to afford this service as I didn't like being told throughout the process that 'because I am an Angie's List customer' there were adjustments made - you see the reverse meaning I'm sure. I understand why it was said, I'm just not sure I agree. When the first crew arrived they had to remove the toilet as the access was under the house (we have a 100+yr old home) and they couldn't get the machine in there. I want to say this now (and will again) the workers employed by this company were exemplary in many ways. The snaking from the bathroom was uneventful other than the machine having to be fiddled with because it wasn't working properly for about 30 minutes - I asked and they didn't charge me for that time. We paid those workers directly. Then we had to wait for the other staff member. The only thing about this first visit that could have been better was - when they are working in the home, plastic should be laid down over work areas in my opinion (especially over carpet). When the primary point of contact arrived (the estimator who also did the camera work) the view could not be achieved past a certain point in the pipe. The camera work was free of charge. Then begins the 'estimate' part - which I'm sure everyone dislikes - I didn't like it because I do not like any semblance of lack of transparency. I had not done this before and was not clear that 'taxes' were not included - which when I found this out later - it made me feel insecure on other transactions. We did not have a clean out access in the yard and it was logical and reasonable to put one in. The 'block' where the camera couldn't get past was more nebulous - because you can't see under water very well to know what is wrong (which, I guess is the point) - so we agreed to the cost to dig the hole, install the access and have a 'jetter' come in and blow everything up and down the line to hopefully displace the block. You have to pay 1/2 down for the work to begin, which we did - giving the check to the estimator. This is where again the employees shine. Seriously, if you ever need your yard dug up - these were the tidiest people - they put down plastic, make 'wells in the dirt' to capture excess water - covered the piles with plastic afterwards - don't leave their stuff laying about - it was great - it could have been a sloppy mess. They found a break in the pipe that day which was presumedly where the camera could not initially go past - but we were putting in the access anyway so no biggie. The person doing the power wash arrived after a bit and we went forward with the next step. We did have to wait while the jetter was filled up with some water during this process. He also had a camera and although we made it to the city sewer it was difficult viewing and he advised he thought there was a belly (where the pipe was dipping) and things were accumulating. The guy knew his stuff. Regarding the 'belly' - my father had had to clean out - digging holes by hand over the years very near this area so it made sense - Now, we have to wait for another estimate and discussion on what's next. I think this whole - escalation thing was frustrating to me in fairness to the company - as I said, I've not done much of this and am very protective of my Dad. It seemed to be one thing after another but in hind sight I guess could be a normal progression. Because they could not complete the work until we decided what was next they but up tape around the area and covered the dirt mounds with plastic. They did not have a cover for the hole (so the dog would'nt jump in) or sticks for the tape but we did make do. They were quick and efficient. We met with the estimator but now I'm really suspicious of everything. We discussed replacing the line to the alley which they suggested be by pipe burst and now we had to get a permit...I wasn't happy..but Jim Dandy said they would absorb that cost of the permit. We would be delayed while getting this done and arranging for the next crew. It should be noted that Jim Dandy is 'really' busy and they are based in Seattle and I'm in Tacoma - I do feel they attempted to coordinate and communicate based on my needs - which were demanding for both of us but it is still difficult over a mobile phone that does not connect well (on their end) - getting calls while you are working, emailing information etc. I guess I feel everything should just be in writing and done right the first time. Additionally, it rained a lot that week. I asked for a very concise - clear written understanding of EXACTLY what I would owe and what I was getting - (including confirmation of the balance of the second job) and an itemized cost for this now third version of the job. I also asked that they bring some extra dirt because after a week the pile that was there was way down and i didn't want a dip in my yard. That was no problem. When the (first) of the two day work for this third rev of the project finally arrived (one day for the work and one for final inspection and back fill) - the crew did what they needed to and then when the inspector arrived - he advised that we could not pipe burst and that a trench needed to be dug for the pipe to be relaid. Now, I was really unhappy (too put it mildly) I asked that my timeline not be delayed again and I asked what they were going to do for me. Jim Dandy said they would not charge me extra for the trenching (they had never had someone require the trenching) and would get the job done within the same timeframe. Without those two things, I don't know that I would have. I also asked for extra dirt because after a week the pile that was there was 'way' down. I had been told the estimator would be on the job site that day but he wasn't - this as mentioned above was bothersome. To be in compliance with my contract. I had to pay 1/2 down (for the first day of the second job). I contacted the estimator and he advised me to give the check to the lead man which I did. Again the men that did the work on all these jobs were personable, polite and did the job...well - without complaint and tirelessly ( I really want to stress this and they made the whole experience) So they continued to work - the same day - now on the job of trenching instead of pipe bursting - ONE guy was digging that hole while we waited for the backhoe to arrive. I was really impressed by these gentleman and that the company was supportive and helpful and got the machine there. So now, I have a 30 ft + trench in my yard - through the carport etc. It was impressive. We arrive to the final day - the guys arrive on time and do their thing - completing the trench, fixing the clean out access - then a question for the inspector arises - can they go from 4" to directly into the city (at 6") or not? We wait. When I got tired of waiting, I called the city too - I wanted that inspector there that DAY to sign off this job. The city directed me to a web site for information to address this question - I left a msg to please have the inspector call and printed off the material. I get in the back yard and the guys now had also found this information. Time passes, one of the guys cell phone starts ringing (they were in the alley) and I'm leaping to the phone - they spoke to the inspector - I'm gesturing in the background to also ask when will the inspector be there - they hang up and we have 30 minutes to pull it together and the inspector will be there. We had plenty of time - the inspector signed off and I felt I just finished a marathon. FYI the pipe they took out was literally bowed in two spots. The back fill/clean up was impeccable by the crew - I mean it - they seeded the grass - but down GRAVEL instead of the dirt I wanted and literally (except for dead grass patch from the week delay) the yard- driveway looked fabulous and our plumbing was brand new!! So now, I wanted to pay for the balance of the work but the estimator wasn't there. Also, they didn't have the box to put around the clean out (that's flush with the ground) so I call the estimator and say - I'm going to get back the check I gave to the guys yesterday and just write for the total.... While I am incredibly grateful that I wanted to do this - the bummer is - they had lost my Dad's check. The estimator was to have picked it up the night before from the lead and got waylaid and couldn't. I know it was an accident but in todays day and age...I was very worried. They did drive home to see if it could be found there but it wasn't. So I spent the next day closing my Dad's accounts and creating new ones and stopping payment on that check. It was draining. The lead guy did come back on his day off to place the box over the clean out. I ended up paying by cashiers check/certified mail. The accountant was great too. I would recommend this company.

We have a very difficult set up with two apartments that have side by side bathrooms. The tubs in each unit share a common drain line, and they connect to the exit line at a 90 degree angle. This requires a skilled plumber who is able to get the snake down the tub drain, make one right angle turn, then find the connecting line and make another right angle turn. Joe Hicks is that skilled plumber, and I would highly recommend him to anyone with a drain problem. Joe and his apprentice came promptly, answered all my questions and got right to work. Joe advised that the worst case scenario would require opening the ceiling of the unit below to access the drain line, but he felt confident that this would not be necessary. He only wanted me to be forewarned. Joe had his apprentice begin the work, talking him through the process, how to angle the snake, when to apply pressure, pull back etc. The apprentice was not successful in making the last 90 degree turn, so Joe took over. He was able to get the snake down the proper line in no time and cleared the drain. I was very impressed with both the work, and the teaching that went on in the process of clearing my drain. Jim Dandy is clearly a company that is committed to making sure their plumbers are the best in the business. Originally I called Roto Rooter for my drain problem, and had a HORRIBLE experience. I made the appointment window for 9-11 am. At 7 am the dispatcher called asking if they could come earlier, between 7:30 and 8:00. I did not want to inconvenience my tenants, who were all still asleep at the hour, but I was desperate because the tub drains were completely stopped. I agreed to the earlier time window. The person they sent was a sewer line specialist, not a drain line specialist, he did not have the proper equipment on his truck to do the job, and told me I needed to wait until a drain specialist could come. That person arrived about 10 am and when I explained the problem, he immediately told me 90 degree angle pipes were nearly impossible to clear, that it was entirely up to luck as to weather one could get the snake to go down or not. He said he would most likely need to cut open walls to access a vent and run the snake through there. He presented me with a blank work order and asked me to sign my approval of the work. There was no detail of what work he proposed to do,nor was there any price estimate. I refused until he wrote in the pricing and work details. He then began to snake the drain, and after about 30 minutes gave up on the tubs. I asked him to snake a kitchen sink drain which he did successfully. At the end of it all the bill was nearly $500 and I still had two bathtubs that would not drain! I will NEVER use Roto Rooter again. If you ever need a plumber, call Jim Dandy. They are the best!

The tech arrived promptly at the scheduled time and proceeded to inspect the situation. Our front yard was flooding from a broken water service line, and he gave me two options, he could repair the existing line, or replace it with a new one. As I didn't want to have a future failure from a repair I asked him for an estimate to replace the line. He did a quick inspection and measuement of the existing run, and went to his truck to figure out an estimate. When he was done, he came out and told me it would cost $4,200.00 to replace the existing line with a new one made of PEX material. He also said that the repair should be done as quickly as possible as the flooding was getting bad and that there was a lot of water being wasted. I went into my house to discuss the estimate with my wife, where we agreed that we would accept the estimate and ask the contractor to perform the work. After less than two minutes inside, I returned to the front yard and told the tech that we wanted to proceed with the replacement of the service line. He then informed that the price had just gone up to over $6,800.00, as he had called his boss , and was told that they were busy, and that if we wanted the repair done we would have to pay more to cover his expenses. I told the tech that a 50% price escalation in two minutes was unacceptable and that we would not be using Jim Dandy Plumbing for this repair job. He said hang on a minute while I call my boss, which he did. The tech then came back to me and asked if we would pay $5,000.00 for the repair. I told him no, that the behavior exhibited by his company and management during the estimate process was unprofessional at best, so I would not be able to have trust in any part of their services. I had no issue with the tech that came to make the estimate, he was prompt, courteous, and tried to make the best of a very bad situation. His company management however is extremely unprofessional, and appears to be using a bait and switch technique to jack up the pricing. I would not recommend this company to anyone.

A couple of days ago I called Jim Dandy plumbing in a panic. My sewage ejection pump had stopped working, with inevitable results. I?d used Jim Dandy in the past and was very pleased with their professionalism, price, and service. Not only did they send someone out on very short notice, but the phenomenal plumber they sent, Joe Hicks, even showed up early to do the work. Joe knows his stuff. Here is an abbreviated list of what Joe did right: 1) He explained all of the options?pros and cons?including pricing and whatever other considerations were pertinent.2) He was polite, courteous, and obviously took great pride in his work.3) He was customer focused and listened to my questions and concerns and treated me with respect.4) He performed the work flawlessly and efficiently. (I don?t know whether plumbers do this all the time, but at one point Joe needed to gauge the length of a new section of pipe he was cutting. The length that he cut was spot on perfect. Although this was a small thing, it impressed me. I could not have done that!)5) He was very mindful of the work area and cleaned up afterward.6) He solved the issue that needed to be solved, with the best supplies for the job, and provided tips on how to keep the system runnning well going forward. Here is an abbreviated list of what Joe did wrong: 1) NOTHING Look, plumbers probably know that when sewage is backing up in your house you would pretty much pay anything to have the problem fixed. Despite this, Jim Dandy demonstrated once again that they understand the full meaning of the phrase, "customer service": it?s about doing the right thing with the customer?s concerns (including cost) in mind. There are many great plumbers in Seattle. I have used others and been extremely happy with their work. When I write a review I don?t compare companies to other companies. Every review reflects the circumstances of both the people and the work that needed to be performed. I am simply saying that Jim Dandy is wonderful. Period.

In need of a plumber, I looked on Angie?s List and chose Jim Dandy. Called and had a plumber here in 3hrs. 2hrs later problem solved. Sam explained everything as he went along, no surprises.

We managed to get a same-day appointment. Crew was punctual (called when they were 30 mins out) and wore booties in the house. Original estimate was for an hour but they took 1.5 hours instead. It would have been nice to have been told them when they came to assess the situation, especially since when they took a look, said "it shouldn't take long". Gary helped set-up the complimentary scope for a different crew to come out. There was apparently a miscommunication and that crew member never showed. I called Gary who apologized and had someone else come out instead. Braun turned up and did the scope, found a crack in our sewer line and suggested a repair. We asked for a photo or recording of the crack - gave him our thumb drive but somehow the video didn't record the picture. There was also no follow through with the report and cost estmate for the follow-up work. When Braun was putting the toilet back, a bolt got broken off and he had to ask his other crew to come by with the spare bolt and fix it. Kyle and Carl were great. It was tricky putting it all back and they took some time with it. They were thorough and cleaned-up the mess as much as they could.

I called and they came the same day a couple of hours later. They did a good job.

The install took about 4 hours, which was about 2 hours longer than expected. Was very thorough and made sure that everything was working properly before leaving the job site. Mike the technician was awesome, very professional and very knowledgeable about what he was doing.

Appointment was easy to make. Technician was prompt, friendly and provided good insight into the process. Technician also gave some pointers for areas to be on the watch for in regard to the plumbing system. No great upsell, just informational. Cleaned up and followed through on every promise of the transaction.

We had the plumber, Mike, come out on Saturday before the Christmas holidays and explain what was needed and why the water line to the washer would need to be replaced. Really appreciated his honesty regarding the work and the quote was within reason. I do like the fact that Jim Dandy gives a written quote and stands behind there work. The receptionist was able to accommodate us by having Mike available for the Friday after Christmas. Was amazed that they can schedule us with the holidays and also have Mike come back to complete the work. Mike was able to complete the work in timely fashion even though he had to get more supplies. He was able to get us up and running in that day. His professionalism and work effort was exemplary and would recommend Jim Dandy and especially Mike for your plumbing needs. Planning to use them again for our re-model.

We have a 1950s custom built house with an unusual sink built into an unusual bathroom. Recently the sink began to leak around the bottom. Another plumber told us that parts were no longer available for this sink, and that the entire sink would have to be replaced. A comparable sink was not available for the custom counter site, so a complete counter remodel would be necessary. Joe Hicks from Jim Dandy looked at the problem, and affirmed that all of this was correct. However, instead of giving up, he carefully removed the old pop-up seal, intact, measured and photographed it, and then carefully placed this back along with a generous amount of high quality silicon sealant. This was successful in stopping the leak. The net result is that we have a photo and measurements on the off-size seal which we can use to look for (or have somebody construct) a replacement. In the meantime, the sink no longer leaks and is useable. The $200 for the visit was well worth the price, especially if we are able to come up with a replacement seal and dodge the "remodel the entire bathroom counter" recommendation. This resourcefulness and thinking "outside the box" is refreshing. We have had previous plumbing problems repaired by Mr. Hicks, when he worked for another company, and were equally pleased with his approach, his work, and his professionalism.

I called Jim Dandy because it was the most highly-rated firm in my area. I reported that my toilet tank had developed a persistet leak. The plumber arrived, looked at the situation, said he could fix the leak but that I needed a new toilet, approximate cost $750. I said I needed to consult before I could agree to do that. He said he had replaced the offending value at no extra cost above that of the basic service call. I did not flush the toilet again that day. When I did it began to leak continuously. I call the firm again. The plumber who had come the day before was taking the day off but the receptionist said she would contact him. That afternoon I was called by the firsm's owner. He said that the company would do no more work on my complaint beyond replacing the toilet as agreed. I said that I had not agreed to have the toilet replaced and that the original problem had not been solved and in fact had been made worse. After a great deal of wrangling back and forth, he said he wold schedule another service call at full charges. I ultimately declined his offer. The next day I scheduled an appointment with another plumber, who came promptly, fixed the leak, and said there was no reason to replace my toilet at this time.

I We are extreme happy with the service provided by Buzz from Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing . I called around 8:15 am on Saturday and Buzz show up around 9:30 am. He quickly fix our problem and completed everything around 10:45 pm. Include run to local hardware store buy the needed parts which he only charge the parts. Buzz also provide us tips on how to prevent this happen in the future.

Sam, from Jim Dandy was very friendly, professional and he arrived when he said he would. We were worried that the leaky toilet might have damaged the sub floor in the house we just bought, but Sam said it looked fine to him and he fixed the leak. He made us feel very confident that we had chosen a very good plumber, and the people who answer the phones were also really great to talk to.

We had a great experience with Jim Dandy to get our gas line installed in the kitchen from the gas furnace in the garage. Ryan, who did the whole work was great and did the job very professionally and with great quality. Due to some delays in traffic etc. he also worked late. He was very diligent in explaining to us all the details that we asked for and also was very prompt in returning our calls even after the work was completed when we had some minor questions to ask him. He is extremely knowledgeable and reliable. We are very happy with Jim Dandy's services and specially with Ryan, will definitely like to have him do any future work when needed.

Prior to recent cold spell, we turned off the water to our outdoor shower, but did not realize that the heat tape was switched off. The shower froze and ruined the cartridge as well as splitting the pipe to shower head. I was able to schedule an appointment within 24 hours. Mike M arrived about 20 minutes early and got right to work. Extent of damage unknown when he started, and he was here much longer than expected. The price was reasonable given the amount of time and extent of repairs. I will definitely use Jim Dandy the next time I need a plumber!

Joe was such a life saver! He explained each problem and solution thoroughly. He even allowed us to ask plumbing questions while he worked! Joe explained why certain parts were at risk for leaking and how to properly maintain our copper pipes. He was prompt, professional and trust worthy. I am so thankful that my husband and I have found "our plumber." Without a doubt, we will request Joe for any future plumbing needs. **** Update on 1/3/15***** Joe came to install our composite bathtub on December 22, 2014 (approximate cost $1300). He spent several hours installing new piping and creating a new p-trap. As expected, he did a fantastic job. Cannot thank Joe and Jim Dandy enough!!!!

They were wonderful. The estimator, who wasn't familiar with the codes, made a mistake that I ended up paying for as they ended up needing to drill twice. I have found them to be pretty fair price-wise and that they kept me in the loop on where they were with the work.

This is my third time using Jim Dandy for emergency services and they have been superbly professional every time! They are no nonsense, give clear explanations to the problem, the solution and costs up front. Every plumber they have ever sent has been respectful and courteous. I never feel condescended to for my dumb mistakes. This goes a long way with me :-) Special shout out to today's plumber Joe H. for timely service, clear communication about when he would be arriving, arriving when he said he would and for excellent post-job clean up . Extra points for Joe liking and being able to work calmly around my two very inquisitive cats who kept getting under the sink while Joe was working and trying to "help". ;-) >^..^< >^..^<

Carl showed up was right on time. He was very professional and personable. He took a few minutes to ask specific questions regarding the back up. He went straight too it and cleaned up when he left. I appreciate how professional Carl was and would recomend him and Jim Dandy for any job.

they had a hard time locating the waste line, but were tenacious, and got most of it. they didn't know how to work their i-pad to take payment, and it turned out later that I didn't need to pay them anyway, b/c I'd already paid via Angie's, but they sent my check back and apologized for confusion. no harm, no foul.

Sam arrived within the time window promised and quickly quoted the job for 2 1/2 hours. He didn't have the parts so he had to go out and come back later with the parts. He didn't charge me for that time. He took only 1 hour and 15 minutes to do the work. Half of what he had estimated. Since the price was going to come down substantially, I've decided to have him take a look at a clogged toilet that refused to unclog even with sulfuric acid. He unclogged it in no time. So, in the end, he spent 1 1/2 hours and did more than what he had initially come here to do. I was pretty happy that he re-adjusted the price due to being so fast. The work performed has a 1-year warranty, which is a peace-of-mind. Was it cheap? No. But, honestly, you don't want to save on plumbing services. The faulty valve that was replaced by Jim Dandy was actually a result of a previous poorly-done job by a cheap contractor. Had I spent more that time to have it fixed right, I wouldn't have had to spend $500 now to do a bigger job. And it's still going to grow due to water damage to my floor, etc...

Went great. After initially telling us they would arrive within 3 hours, they arrived after 90 minutes, cleared the line and ran a camera down the line to make sure nothing serious had occurred (tree roots clogged the line)...