LESLIE: Out in Oregon you can find The Money Pit on KBNP, like Carla does. How can we help you?
CARLA: Well, I just had a house built and the builder never asked how I wanted my laundry drain done. And he believes that when they go into the wall you can have lots of problems. So he has the laundry drain into a laundry sink. I want it the other way and I was wondering if he’s responsible for that.
TOM: He’s got the drain for the washing machine going into the laundry sink?
CARLA: Yes.
TOM: That’s poor form. Now, you don’t – you do that – I mean see people do that as an afterthought but that’s not the right way to do that. It should have its own drain and it should have its own vent.
CARLA: I agree. (chuckling) But is he – you know, is there – is that not up to code and can I like sue him for it or …?
TOM: Not worth the expense or the trouble and if it’s two years that have passed it’s out of warranty, too.
CARLA: Well no, it just was built the 29th.
TOM: Oh, it was just built? Oh, and do you have a homeowner’s warranty on it?
CARLA: I do.
TOM: Well, I would do a couple of things. First of all, have you complained to the builder yet?
CARLA: Yes, we have.
TOM: Secondly, I would write to the warranty company and complain to them. And thirdly, I would drop in to visit my local friendly neighborhood code enforcement official.
CARLA: OK.
TOM: And say, “I don’t know from nothing, but take a look at this. I don’t think it’s done correctly.” And is it a violation of the code in the Oregon district that you’re in.
CARLA: OK.
TOM: And just take a – take a picture and bring it in and have him take a look. And you want to probably talk to the code inspector or the plumbing inspector. But it’s very poor form if nothing else. It’s very poor workmanship.
Carla, go get ’em. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT. 888-666-3974.
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