Plain answers

Look at the footer of any page: it lists my license class, the state and a link to the state's lookup page, so you can check it yourself before I come.

Yes. I look at the problem, tell you what I'd do, and text you the price in writing before I touch anything. If the number doesn't suit you, we part friends.

Shut the main valve first. It is usually where the water line comes into the house: in the garage or utility room, or in a box near the street. Turn it clockwise until it stops, then call or text me a photo.

I answer the phone Monday to Saturday during the hours in the footer. I don't run an after-hours line. If water can't wait, shut the main and call a plumber with a night line; I'll call you back first thing.

Yes. Ask your landlord first, since they pay for repairs to the building. I can text them the details and the price so you aren't stuck in the middle.

Most small repairs don't need one. When a job does, I tell you before I start and I pull it.

Biscuit rides in the van and stays there unless you say hello. If you or someone in the house is allergic or nervous around dogs, tell me when you call and Biscuit stays home.

Houses built before 1986 may have lead solder or older steel pipe. I look when I'm under the sink, tell you what I see, and point you to the EPA's page on lead in drinking water. I don't do whole-house repipes.

I tell you straight, and I tell you who I'd call. Repipes, sewer lines and new water heater installs are not my work.