CV
Cheryl Vaun
Nov 12, 2025
I contracted with JAK Construction for a complete bathroom remodel down to the studs. The remodel was necessary to address water damage from a toilet and shower leak. From the beginning, I stated that appearance was secondary to the primary importance of all correct leak-free plumbing and sound construction. Adam assured me he could deliver and that I was in good hands, but the work delivered fell short.
The list of issues continued to grow during install and after the remodel was complete. Ultimately, there were issues with the sink, toilet and shower. The bathroom sink had never leaked, but once the new sink was installed it leaked. The dealbreaker came when I discovered water pooling behind the toilet.
I called a licensed plumber and they found the toilet was not properly seated and was leaking for weeks, causing water damage to the subfloor. The plumber explained exactly why it leaked, showing how the wax ring could not secure a seal to an unsecured flange and at a height below floor level. The new thicker subfloor and flooring also resulted in a gap that needed to be bridged to create a seal. The plumber addressed the issues and reinstalled the toilet and I have had no further issues.
When I contacted Adam about it, he told me that installing the toilet differently than the original leaking toilet was not part of the scope of the work. I don’t know about you, but I think the toilet plumbing is very much part of the scope of a toilet install.
I asked for a refund that encompassed the water damage, out of pocket repairs and a refund for the labor completed incorrectly or poorly. Adam has refused to offer any compensation, take responsibility for the mistake, or acknowledge the damage to the subfloor. He did offer some small repairs for free, but that’s not a risk I can take.
So, I paid for a new bathroom with leaks and water damage. A disappointing and an incredibly expensive learning experience. And totally avoidable. Lesson learned, I will pay a licensed plumber whatever it costs, because it’s worth it.