Terms & Conditions

Effective Date: [Insert Date]

These Terms & Conditions (“Terms”) govern all services performed by Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc., operating as part of the Universal Home Services family of companies, including but not limited to plumbing, drain cleaning, sewer repair, excavation, and HVAC services. By approving an estimate, signing an invoice, or paying for services, the customer (“Customer”) agrees to these Terms in full.

1. Scope of Work

All services are performed in accordance with industry standards, applicable building codes, and manufacturer recommendations.
Estimates are based on visible conditions at the time of inspection. Hidden or unforeseen issues, concealed damage, or code violations discovered during service may require additional repairs or materials. Any such extra work will be quoted and approved by the Customer before completion.

Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc. performs residential and light commercial plumbing, drain, sewer, and HVAC services, including repairs, installations, and maintenance.

2. Separate Corporate Entities

The “Universal Home Services” brand represents multiple independently owned and operated corporations:

  • Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc. – Plumbing, drain, sewer, excavation, and HVAC services

  • Universal Custom Remodel, Inc. – Residential and commercial remodeling services

  • Universal Power & Electric, Inc. – Licensed electrical contracting services

Each entity operates under its own licensing, insurance, and management. Work authorized under one company does not imply a contract or warranty obligation by another. Any references to “Universal Home Services” or shared branding are for marketing purposes only and do not constitute a joint venture or shared liability.

3. Estimates, Deposits, and Payment Terms

  • Estimates are valid for 30 days unless otherwise stated.

  • Payment is due in full upon completion of work, unless prior written arrangements have been made.

  • For projects exceeding $2,000 or requiring special-order materials, a deposit of up to 50% may be required before work begins.

  • A diagnostic or trip charge may apply even if work is declined.

  • Returned checks or failed electronic payments may incur processing fees.

Failure to pay within the agreed time frame may result in service suspension, legal collection, and applicable fees or interest as allowed by law.

4. Ownership of Materials

All materials and equipment supplied by Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc. remain the property of the company until payment is received in full.
The company reserves the right to remove or disable non-paid equipment if legally permissible and safe to do so.

5. Warranties

  • Workmanship Warranty: Labor performed by Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc. is warranted for one (1) year from the date of service unless otherwise stated or extended under a Universal membership plan.

  • Manufacturer Warranties: Apply only to products supplied and installed by the company.

  • The warranty does not cover:

    • Customer-supplied materials

    • Damage caused by misuse, neglect, freezing, flooding, power surges, improper maintenance, or third-party work

    • Hidden defects or pre-existing issues discovered after service completion

Warranty service must be scheduled during regular business hours. Emergency service calls may incur charges.

6. Customer Responsibilities

The Customer agrees to:

  • Provide safe and reasonable access to work areas, including attics, crawl spaces, basements, and mechanical rooms

  • Secure pets and clear the immediate work area before service

  • Obtain necessary permissions or landlord approvals where required

The company is not responsible for delays caused by restricted access, required inspections, permits, or third-party scheduling.

7. Damage to Property

Every reasonable precaution is taken to prevent damage during service.
However, Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc. is not liable for incidental damage to walls, ceilings, landscaping, drywall, flooring, roofing, or any surface required to access equipment or plumbing systems.
The company is also not responsible for damage caused by:

  • Existing corrosion, deterioration, or faulty materials

  • Improper prior installation

  • Concealed piping, electrical, or structural defects

8. Limitation of Liability

The total liability of Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc., whether in contract, warranty, or otherwise, shall not exceed the amount paid by the Customer for the specific service rendered.

Under no circumstances shall the company be liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including but not limited to loss of use, business interruption, mold growth, property damage, or loss of revenue.

9. Drain and Sewer Work

Drain and sewer cleaning services are performed using standard mechanical and hydro-jetting methods.
Because blockages often result from defective piping, root intrusion, or collapsed lines, no warranty is offered on drain clearing unless otherwise specified in writing.

Customers are advised to allow camera inspection after cleaning to confirm pipe condition. The company is not responsible for future backups, underground damage, or failures related to deteriorated piping.

10. HVAC Services

Heating and cooling maintenance includes cleaning, inspection, and testing as outlined in the service description.
The company is not responsible for failures resulting from:

  • Pre-existing electrical or mechanical issues

  • Inaccessible ductwork

  • Inadequate maintenance between visits

Refrigerant leaks, air balancing, and system replacements are billed separately.
Licensed technicians perform all HVAC work in accordance with state and local regulations.

11. Permits and Code Compliance

Where required, Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc. will obtain necessary permits for work performed. Permit fees are not included in the estimate unless explicitly stated.
The company is not responsible for code changes or additional requirements imposed after work begins.

12. Membership Plans

Membership or maintenance plan benefits are valid only for active members in good standing.
Missed payments or cancellations may void discounts and extended warranty coverage.

13. Cancellations and Refunds

Customers may cancel services before scheduling without penalty.
Once materials are ordered or work has begun, cancellations may be subject to restocking fees or charges for time and materials used.

14. Governing Law

The laws of the State of Michigan govern these Terms.
Any disputes arising under or related to these Terms shall be resolved in the appropriate court within Macomb County, Michigan.

15. Contact Information

Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc.
35640 Gratiot Ave, Clinton Township, MI 48035
Phone: (586) 210-0035
Website: www.plumbingandsewer.com

For questions regarding these Terms or to request a copy, please get in touch with our office directly.

Note on Affiliated Entities

“Universal Home Services” is a shared brand used for marketing and identification of affiliated but independent companies:
Universal Plumbing & Sewer, Inc., Universal Custom Remodel, Inc., and Universal Power & Electric, Inc. are separate legal corporations.
Each company is solely responsible for its own services, employees, and warranties. No joint liability or implied partnership exists between them.