When Cutting Corners Costs More Than Doing It Right

Every plumber has that one job that tests your patience. The one where you arrive on site and immediately know something has gone terribly wrong.

Recently, Darrin and I faced one of those major plumbing challenges. We were called in to fix a crossed pipe problem where, believe it or not, the original plumber had connected the cold water line onto the ring main. It wasn’t just one small mistake. There were several serious plumbing blunders that would make any professional shake their head.

I supervised while Darrin did the heavy lifting, and he did a brilliant job. After a long day’s work and around R30,000 later, we managed to get everything back to where it should have been in the first place.

The Problem With Rushing and Running

The same client had another property built in Camps Bay by the same plumber. This time, the problems were even worse. The house was completed and pressurised, and the moment they turned on the water, it came pouring out of the ceilings.

When we inspected further, we found drain lines not connected behind retaining walls. To make matters worse, the electrical work was a complete disaster. Ironically, this plumber was also a qualified electrician, though you would not say so after seeing the results.

And where was he when all of this came to light? Gone. Vanished. He left the client to deal with the chaos and damage.

Lessons Every Tradesperson Should Learn

Here is the truth.

No matter how big the mistake is, it is always better to face your client, fix the issue, and make it right. Running away only ruins your name, and in this case, it has. That plumber’s reputation is completely destroyed. He is now being sued by two very wealthy and very angry clients.

Word spreads fast in the plumbing industry. Once your name is associated with bad workmanship, it is nearly impossible to recover.

I have worked with this client for years and can fully stand behind him. He is fair, loyal, and always pays for good work. Unfortunately, I could not take on those two houses at the time because I was busy on another one of his projects. But this situation is a strong reminder for all tradesmen.

Be accountable. Mistakes happen, and what matters is how you handle them.

Take pride in your craft. Shortcuts are expensive lessons.

Protect your name. Your reputation is your most valuable tool.