The drain guys
$550 to fix a slow drain!
I called The Drain Guys on Thursday afternoon for a slow-draining bathtub after attempting to clear it myself.
When scheduling, I specifically asked whether they could provide at least a ballpark estimate for snaking a bathtub drain. I was told there was no way to provide pricing information until a technician saw the issue in person. At the same time, I was assured their pricing was “the best in the business,” that the owner operates with integrity, and that they are not in the business of gouging customers. Based on those representations, I agreed to schedule service.
I was told that due to the snowstorm and several frozen pipe emergencies, the earliest available appointment was Saturday. I understood that weather can create legitimate service delays and agreed to wait.
However, late Friday evening, the night before the scheduled Saturday appointment, I received a text stating the plumber would not be able to come because they were behind schedule. The next available appointment was Tuesday. That resulted in a five-day wait from my original call for a routine drain issue.
When the technician arrived on Tuesday, I was quoted $550 to snake a single bathtub drain. The work took approximately 30 minutes. After receiving the quote, I texted the office referencing the earlier statement about having the best prices in the business. I was then told that they had not said that, only that their prices were competitive.
If $550 is the standard rate for this service, that information could have been shared when I specifically asked for even a general idea of cost. Being told that no pricing guidance could be provided, while simultaneously being reassured about superior pricing and integrity, created expectations that did not align with the final quote.
The technician did clear the clog. However, he did not remove his shoes or use protective coverings despite snow and mud outside, and water was tracked into the home.
This experience combined a last-minute cancellation due to scheduling issues, a five-day wait for service, no upfront pricing transparency, and a $550 charge for approximately 30 minutes of work. Prospective customers, particularly those who are cost- or time-sensitive, should request written pricing information and obtain comparison quotes before proceeding.
