"rck" wrote in message
nk.net...
I've lived in some states with excellent consumer protection and
enforcement of licensing laws. I just checked my state (Tennessee) and it
says that because of the large number of complaints against contractors
and the lack of staff for enforcement, the board has jurisdiction only
over work which exceeds $25,000 in value. Bubba the licensed plumber knows
this and therefore has no incentive to do good work on an $850 job. Now
that I've calmed down, I think the best thing is for me to fix his
mistakes, dry out the carpet and have it cleaned and then get on with my
life, and then next time do the work myself even if it takes longer to do.

Bob

try sending him a letter, certified mail, return receipt requested,
expressing your displeasure with his work and indicating you will pursue a
complaint with the licensing authority unless he re-inspects all his work
(are mopre leaks looming on the horizon?) and repairs or pays for repair of
the damage (is there water in the walls now? mold forming?)

get a couple of independent 3rd parties to witness the damage

file a complaint with the licensing authority under reasons other than the
$25,000 "floor", if possible (look for a catch all rule, like acts
discreditable to the profession, etc.), with sworn affidavits from the
independent 3rd parties evidencing the damage

he would then be required to spend the time/effort responding to the
complaint; that might slow him down a bit, in the future others should be
able to check with the licensing authority and see the complaint if they
check him out with the licensing autthority prior to deciding to hire him

contact your insurance carrier if you have plumbing leak insurance

contact the tennessee attorney general's office for possible relief there

tell everyone you know locally about the incident, that might cost him a job
or two