FAQ
General Questions
What areas do you serve?
Fito Plumbers, Inc. serves a wide range of cities in Alameda County and the greater San Francisco Bay Area, including Livermore, Hayward, Pleasanton, Dublin, San Ramon, Castro Valley, San Leandro, and Union City.
Are you a licensed and insured plumber?
Yes, we are a fully licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing contractor. Our California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) number is 1019265, which includes both C-36 (Plumbing Contractor) and A (General Engineering Contractor) classifications.
What are your hours of operation?
We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to handle all your plumbing needs, including emergencies. Our team is available Saturday through Friday without interruption.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes, we provide free estimates for our plumbing services. Contact us at (510) 586-0212 for our Livermore office or (510) 755-5974 for our Hayward office to schedule an appointment.
Is Fito Plumbers a family-owned business?
Yes, we are a proud family-owned and operated plumbing company with over 20 years of experience serving the Bay Area. Our owner, Fito, personally trains every member of our team to ensure the highest quality of service.
How quickly can you respond to a service call?
We pride ourselves on fast response times. For emergencies, we can often arrive within hours of your call. For scheduled appointments, we work with your timeline to find a convenient time.
Do you clean up after completing the work?
Absolutely. Our team cleans up thoroughly at the end of each day and ensures your property is left in excellent condition. We cover work areas to protect your floors and belongings during the job.
Can I get a second opinion from Fito Plumbers?
Yes, we welcome the opportunity to provide a second opinion on any plumbing issue. We offer honest assessments and transparent pricing, and many customers have found our estimates to be more competitive than other companies.
Do you offer maintenance plans?
Yes, we offer maintenance plans for both residential and commercial plumbing systems to help prevent costly emergencies and extend the life of your plumbing infrastructure.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept multiple payment methods including cash, checks, and major credit cards to make payment convenient for our customers.
Residential Plumbing Services
What types of residential plumbing services do you offer?
We offer a comprehensive range of residential plumbing services including leak repairs, drain cleaning, water heater installation and repair, pipe replacements, fixture installations, bathroom and kitchen plumbing, whole-house repiping, and full-service plumbing for home renovations and new construction.
Can you handle plumbing for older homes?
Yes, we specialize in working with older homes, including those built before 1950. We have extensive experience with aging plumbing systems and can handle everything from partial repairs to complete repiping of homes built in the early 1900s.
Do you offer whole-house repiping?
Yes, we provide complete whole-house repiping services. Our team can replace outdated or failing pipes throughout your entire home with minimal disruption. We open walls as needed, complete the work efficiently, and restore everything to its original condition.
Can you work with my schedule to minimize water shutoffs?
Yes, we understand that having your water turned off is inconvenient. Our team works efficiently to minimize water shutoff times and will coordinate with you to ensure the least possible disruption to your daily routine.
What should I do if I have a plumbing leak in my home?
If you discover a leak, turn off the water supply to that fixture or, if necessary, shut off your main water valve. Then call us immediately at (510) 586-0212 or (510) 755-5974 for emergency service. We can quickly locate and repair the leak to prevent further damage.
Do you install and repair garbage disposals?
Yes, we install, repair, and replace garbage disposals as part of our residential plumbing services.
Can you help with bathroom and kitchen remodels?
Absolutely. We provide complete plumbing services for bathroom and kitchen remodels, including fixture installation, pipe relocation, drain installation, and ensuring all work meets current building codes.
Do you repair or replace sump pumps?
Yes, we service, repair, and replace sump pumps to protect your home from water damage and flooding.
Can you install outdoor plumbing fixtures?
Yes, we install outdoor plumbing fixtures including hose bibs, outdoor showers, irrigation connections, and other exterior plumbing needs.
Water Heaters
What types of water heaters do you install?
We install and service all types of water heaters including traditional tank water heaters, tankless (on-demand) water heaters, and hybrid water heaters. We can help you choose the best option for your home and budget.
What is a hybrid water heater?
A hybrid water heater, also known as a heat pump water heater, combines traditional tank storage with heat pump technology to provide energy-efficient water heating. Hybrid models are generally more energy-efficient for larger hot water demands.
What is a tankless water heater?
A tankless water heater heats water on demand without storing it in a tank. Tankless options save space and offer a consistent hot water supply, making them ideal for smaller households or homes with limited space.
How do I know if I need to repair or replace my water heater?
If your water heater is over 20 years old, leaking, producing rusty water, making unusual noises, or not providing adequate hot water, it may be time for a replacement. Our team can assess your system and recommend the best solution.
How long does a water heater installation take?
Most water heater installations can be completed in a single day. The exact time depends on the type of unit being installed and whether any additional plumbing modifications are needed.
Do you install water heater expansion tanks?
Yes, we install expansion tanks as required by code. The expansion tank should be installed on the cold water supply line, positioned between the main shut-off valve and the water heater.
Can you install water heaters on pedestals?
Yes, we install water heaters on pedestals when needed, particularly in areas prone to flooding. We also add proper drain lines to prevent floor flooding in the event of a leak.
Do you service commercial water heaters?
Yes, we service, repair, and install water heaters for commercial properties of all sizes.
Drain Cleaning and Clogs
My drain is clogged. Can you help?
Yes, we provide professional drain cleaning services to clear clogs in sinks, showers, toilets, main sewer lines, and even complicated clogs that require specialized equipment.
What methods do you use for drain cleaning?
We use a variety of methods depending on the severity and location of the clog, including cable snaking, hydro-jetting, and camera inspection to identify the root cause of the blockage.
What is hydro-jetting?
Hydro-jetting is a powerful drain cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to clear stubborn clogs, remove buildup from pipe walls, and restore full flow to your drains and sewer lines.
Can you unclog French drains?
Yes, we have experience unclogging French drains, even in challenging situations. We make follow-up visits as needed to ensure the drainage system continues working properly.
How do I prevent future drain clogs?
Regular maintenance, avoiding pouring grease down drains, using drain screens, and scheduling periodic professional drain cleaning can help prevent clogs. We can also provide specific recommendations based on your plumbing system.
Can tree roots cause drain problems?
Yes, tree roots can infiltrate sewer lines and cause serious blockages. We use camera inspection to identify root intrusion and can clear roots using hydro-jetting or recommend pipe repair or replacement if necessary.
Leak Detection
How do you detect hidden leaks?
We use advanced leak detection equipment including acoustic listening devices, thermal imaging, and pressure testing to accurately locate hidden leaks in walls, slabs, and underground pipes without unnecessary excavation.
What types of leaks can you detect?
Our leak detection specialists are trained to identify water leaks, sewer leaks, and gas leaks in residential and commercial properties.
How long does leak detection take?
Many leaks can be located in 20 to 30 minutes using our specialized equipment. More complex situations may take longer, but we work efficiently to minimize your time and expense.
Will you have to tear up my property to find a leak?
No, our advanced leak detection technology allows us to pinpoint the exact location of leaks without extensive excavation or damage to your property. We only access the specific area where the leak is located.
What are signs I might have a hidden leak?
Signs of hidden leaks include unexplained increases in your water bill, damp spots on walls or ceilings, musty odors, the sound of running water when fixtures are off, low water pressure, and wet areas in your yard.
Do you repair leaks after detecting them?
Yes, once we locate the leak, we can immediately proceed with repairs. We provide a clear estimate before beginning any repair work.
Private Sewer Lateral (PSL)
What is a Private Sewer Lateral?
A Private Sewer Lateral (PSL) is the sewer line that runs from your home or building to the public sewer main in the street. As a property owner, you are responsible for maintaining and repairing this line.
Why do I need a PSL inspection?
Many cities in the Bay Area, including those served by EBMUD, require PSL inspections and certifications during property sales or when applying for building permits. Homes built before 1950 are particularly at risk for PSL failures and may require immediate inspection.
What does a PSL inspection involve?
A PSL inspection involves using a specialized camera to visually inspect the inside of your sewer lateral line. This allows us to identify cracks, leaks, root intrusion, bellies, offsets, and other defects.
How much does PSL repair or replacement cost?
PSL services typically range from $4,500 to $12,000 depending on the extent of damage, length of the lateral, depth of the line, and whether trenchless or traditional methods are used.
What is PSL compliance?
PSL compliance means your sewer lateral meets local ordinance requirements and is certified as free of leaks and defects. We provide the necessary documentation and certification for compliance.
Can you do trenchless PSL replacement?
Yes, we specialize in trenchless PSL replacement methods that require only small access holes, minimizing disruption to your landscaping, driveway, and property.
How long does a PSL replacement take?
Most PSL replacements can be completed in 2 to 3 days, depending on the complexity of the project and the method used.
Does my city offer assistance with PSL costs?
Some cities and water districts offer lateral insurance programs where you pay a small monthly fee and the city handles repairs. Check with your local water provider to see if such a program is available.
Trenchless Sewer Repair
What is trenchless sewer repair?
Trenchless sewer repair is a modern, minimally invasive method of repairing or replacing damaged sewer lines without extensive excavation. This technique requires only small access holes rather than digging up your entire yard.
What are the benefits of trenchless sewer repair?
Trenchless repair saves time, reduces costs, preserves your landscaping and hardscaping, minimizes property disruption, and provides a long-lasting solution using durable modern materials.
What trenchless methods do you use?
We use several trenchless methods including pipe bursting, pipe lining (cured-in-place pipe or CIPP), and spot repairs depending on the condition of your sewer line.
Is trenchless repair more expensive than traditional methods?
While trenchless methods may have a higher upfront cost, they often save money overall by eliminating the need to repair landscaping, driveways, and other property features that would be damaged by traditional excavation.
How long do trenchless repairs last?
Trenchless repairs using modern materials can last 50 years or more, providing a permanent solution to chronic sewer problems.
Can all sewer lines be repaired using trenchless methods?
Most sewer lines are candidates for trenchless repair, but a camera inspection is needed to determine the best approach. In some cases, traditional excavation may still be necessary.
Horizontal Directional Drilling
What is horizontal directional drilling?
Horizontal directional drilling (HDD), also known as directional boring, is a trenchless method of installing underground pipes, conduits, or cables by drilling horizontally beneath the surface without open trenches.
When is horizontal directional drilling used?
HDD is ideal for installing sewer lines, water lines, and utility conduits under driveways, roads, landscaping, buildings, or other obstacles where traditional trenching would be impractical or too disruptive.
What types of soil can you drill through?
Our directional drilling equipment can work in various soil types including soft clays, hard clays, wet soils, and rocky conditions.
Is directional drilling less disruptive than trenching?
Yes, directional drilling is significantly less disruptive than traditional trenching. It preserves your landscaping, driveways, and structures while still allowing us to install necessary underground utilities.
How accurate is horizontal directional drilling?
Modern HDD equipment is highly accurate and allows us to precisely control the path and depth of the drill to avoid existing utilities and reach the exact target location.
Commercial and Industrial Plumbing
Do you provide plumbing services for businesses?
Yes, Fito Plumbers, Inc. provides expert plumbing services for a wide range of commercial and industrial properties throughout the Bay Area.
What types of commercial properties do you serve?
We serve office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, apartment complexes, schools, medical facilities, and other commercial and industrial properties.
What commercial plumbing services do you provide?
Our commercial services include installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems, sewer and drain systems, water heaters, backflow prevention devices, grease traps, manhole repairs, industrial plumbing solutions, and emergency services.
Can you handle large-scale commercial projects?
Yes, with our C-36 Plumbing and A General Engineering Contractor licenses, we are fully qualified and experienced in managing large-scale commercial and industrial plumbing projects from new construction to complete system overhauls.
Do you offer preventive maintenance for commercial properties?
Yes, we offer comprehensive preventive maintenance programs for commercial properties to minimize downtime, prevent costly emergencies, and extend the life of your plumbing systems.
Can you work after hours to avoid disrupting business operations?
Yes, we can schedule work during evenings, weekends, or other off-hours to minimize disruption to your business operations.
Do you install and service commercial water heaters?
Yes, we install, service, and repair commercial-grade water heaters including large tank systems and tankless units for high-demand applications.
Can you handle commercial sewer line installations?
Yes, we specialize in commercial sewer installation, replacement, and repair, including manhole services and ensuring all work is code-compliant.
Sewer and Manhole Services
Do you repair and install manholes?
Yes, we provide complete manhole services including installation, repair, and maintenance for commercial and municipal applications.
Can you engineer and install complete sewer systems?
Yes, we engineer and install entire sewer systems from the ground up for new homes and commercial buildings, ensuring all work is code-compliant and properly designed.
What causes sewer line backups?
Sewer backups can be caused by clogs from debris or grease, tree root intrusion, broken or collapsed pipes, bellies or sags in the line, or blockages in the main sewer line.
How do you diagnose sewer line problems?
We use camera inspection technology to visually examine the inside of your sewer line and identify the exact location and nature of the problem, allowing us to recommend the most effective solution.
Can you provide documentation for sewer work?
Yes, we provide complete documentation including permits, inspections, camera inspection footage, and compliance certifications as required by local authorities.
Camera Inspection Services
What is a camera inspection?
A camera inspection uses a small, waterproof camera attached to a flexible cable to visually inspect the inside of pipes, drains, or sewer lines. This allows us to see exactly what is happening inside your plumbing without excavation.
When is a camera inspection recommended?
Camera inspections are recommended for diagnosing recurring clogs, slow drains, sewer backups, before purchasing a home, for PSL compliance, and to locate the exact position of damage or blockages.
Can I see the camera inspection footage?
Yes, we can show you the camera inspection footage and explain what we are seeing. This helps you understand the condition of your pipes and the recommended repairs.
Do you provide a recording of the inspection?
Yes, we can provide a recording of the camera inspection for your records or to share with other parties such as real estate agents or municipal inspectors.
Emergency Services
Do you offer emergency plumbing services?
Yes, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services. If you have a plumbing emergency, call us immediately at (510) 586-0212 for our Livermore office or (510) 755-5974 for our Hayward office.
What constitutes a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency is any situation that poses an immediate risk of water damage, threatens health and safety, or leaves you without essential water service. This includes burst pipes, severe leaks, sewer backups, no hot water in winter, gas leaks, and flooding.
How quickly can you respond to an emergency?
We strive to respond to emergencies as quickly as possible, often within hours. Our dual office locations in Livermore and Hayward allow us to provide faster response times throughout the Bay Area.
What should I do while waiting for emergency service?
If safe to do so, shut off the water supply at the affected fixture or at the main valve. Move valuables away from water. If you smell gas, evacuate immediately and call 911 before calling us.
Do you charge extra for emergency services?
Emergency service rates may differ from standard rates due to after-hours response. We will provide clear pricing information when you call.
Permits and Code Compliance
Do you obtain necessary permits?
Yes, we handle all necessary permits for plumbing work and ensure all installations and repairs meet current building codes and local ordinances.
Will your work pass inspection?
Yes, all of our work is performed to code and is designed to pass municipal inspections. We coordinate with inspectors as needed.
Are you familiar with local plumbing codes?
Yes, our team is thoroughly trained in California plumbing codes and local ordinances throughout Alameda County and the Bay Area.
Billing, Estimates, and Financing
How much do your services cost?
The cost of our services varies depending on the nature and complexity of the job. We provide detailed, transparent estimates before any work begins so you know exactly what to expect.
Are your prices competitive?
Yes, our pricing is fair and competitive. Many customers have found our estimates to be more reasonable than other companies, and we never compromise on quality.
Do you offer financing options?
Yes, we understand that plumbing repairs can be a significant investment. We offer financing options to help make our services more affordable. Give us a call to learn more about available financing.
Can you provide a written estimate?
Yes, we provide detailed written estimates for all work before we begin so you can make an informed decision.
Do you charge for estimates?
We offer free estimates for most services. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.
What is included in your estimates?
Our estimates include labor, materials, permits, and any other costs associated with completing the job. We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Customer Service and Quality
Are your technicians trained and certified?
Yes, all of our technicians are highly trained and qualified. Our owner, Fito, personally trains every team member to ensure consistent quality and professionalism.
Do you guarantee your work?
Yes, we stand behind our work and offer warranties on our services. Specific warranty terms depend on the type of work performed.
Can you provide references?
Yes, we have many satisfied customers throughout the Bay Area and can provide references upon request. You can also read our reviews on Google, Yelp, and other platforms.
How do I know I can trust Fito Plumbers?
We are a licensed, bonded, and insured family-owned business with over 20 years of experience and hundreds of positive reviews. We pride ourselves on honesty, integrity, quality workmanship, and treating every customer with respect.
What if I am not satisfied with the work?
Customer satisfaction is our top priority. If you have any concerns about our work, please contact us immediately so we can address the issue and make it right.
Do you offer warranties on parts and equipment?
Yes, parts and equipment we install typically come with manufacturer warranties, and we also provide warranties on our labor.
