Robert Stephen Morton
It seems that the USA is still like Dodge City! In Australia we have rules governing the Plumbing Industry, Unlicenced persons are allowed to simply replace tap washers or cistern rubbers. Any person carrying out any other work which is required to be carried out by licensed persons can be fined up to $12500.00. I would suggest that any American Plumber that is proud of his trade would suggest that you get a Licensed Master Plumber to fix your problem.
