We had a leak from our upstairs bathroom to our kitchen ceiling. We called many companies to deal with the issue including The Master People / Restoration Canada who advised we would likely need to rip out our entire ceiling with the cost being $1-2k at first then $2-3k before finishing up at $3-4k. They heavily pushed for a claim to be made through our insurer and noted that the insurer would not cover plumbing services. As we were not comfortable with their moving estimate we opted to choose our own plumber he cut off communication with them. We then called Canada's Restoration Services. They were very helpful and reiterated that we would not need major repairs and should not be scared into ripping down our ceiling but should instead call a plumber. Their service was great as they were upfront and looking out for our best interest. They recommended Express Rooter. We had Express Rooter come to the house and after completing an assessment for $50.00 the plumber deemed that the leak must have been caused by water overflowing from the bathtub and getting between the tub and floors or else down the vent. We asked about the toilet on three occasions and were assured that was not the issue. Express Rooter left without making any repairs. The next day we went out and came home to a puddle of water in our kitchen and a wet ceiling again despite not having used the bathtub at all.
We decided we should change the toilet to rule out that possibility since it was our suspicion despite Express Rooter advising it was not the case. We received the following estimates for changing the toilet: Express Rooter $200-$400, DrainCom $200-$280, Public Plumbing $140-$160. We booked with Public Plumbing because they were cheapest. They then double-booked themselves leading to a delay. Public Plumbing provided a quote of $398.00 if they were to supply the toilet as well. while Public Plumbing was en route to my house they advised that they misquoted and forgot to include the installation in the price after providing the $398 figure. The total cost was then $550 (toilet, toilet disposal of $60 and installation). I advised this was $100 more expensive than the original price which involved me picking up the toilet. I felt like I was being ripped off and time was wasted by Public Plumbing.
I then contacted Val of Strong plumbing at about 5p.m. He agreed to change the toilet for $200 at 8a.m. next day. He kept me updated as to when he would arrive, was very professional, confirmed the leak was from the toilet, showed us the damage, confirmed we would not need to remove the ceiling, removed the old toilet and left the place spotless! His service was amazing and it was refreshing to deal with an honest tradesperson that did what he said he would. I would highly recommend him!