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Question:

Is it safe to use an electric snake on PVC pipe?

We had a plumber come to unclog our drain on our tub. He never looked at the pipes that we had or anything. He just walked in started up his electric snake and immediately busted our pipe causing at least $10,000 worth of damage to our living room ceiling and floor.He is now trying to say that it wasn't his fault because we had the wrong kind of pipe and it was brittle.After talking to some general contractors, my thinking is that he used the wrong tool for the job and did not use reasonable skill and care. Of course the pipe looks brittle after your machine busted it!I fear we have a battle ahead. Looking for some good information.

Answer:

get an attorney.
He should have insurance. If he doesn't, get YOUR insurance company to sue him for damages.
Generally speaking yes it is ok to do this but some sort of survey should have taken place prior to its use. This should establish the condition of the pipework as older pvc pipes will degrade in sunlight particularly and go brittle.Obviously I am unable to comment on the wrong type of pipe as I dont know what pipe this is but I think its age is more likely to be the main problem not its type.
doesn't matter what pipe is like,,,he should have been careful 2 he should have insurance 3 i hand snake everything first sue him if you must,,,check local courthouse for limit on small claim court take pictures and get estimate from other contracter/plumber bummer 4 you my sister sued well driller for 3K...she won but never was able to collect...did put him out of business

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