Verified record
Rooter-Man is represented here by a Boston-area franchise associated with Vincent “Vinnie” MacDonald and described as a drain-cleaning business. A 2017 review places the plumber in Billerica serving Malden and describes a clogged drain visit that did not clear the line; the reviewer reported a flat $230 charge and the possibility of another charge after upgrading the cleanout. The dated account is detailed but negative, and the available rating signal is one star from one rating. The trade focus is plumbing and drain cleaning, but this small review sample does not establish a broad current track record. Before booking, confirm the local franchise identity, the exact service area, what happens if a clog cannot be cleared, and all flat or follow-up charges. This may suit a homeowner seeking a drain specialist, provided pricing and remedy terms are agreed in writing.
“Reputation, reliability and results mean a lot to Vincent “Vinnie” MacDonald’s Boston-area drain cleaning business.”
Typical Greater Boston range for this kind of work, from regional averages — not a quote from Rooter-Man. Use it to sanity-check bids, then get the real number in writing.
Estimated range
$290 – $710
Typical plumbing job around $500
TITLE: Around north of Boston, Roto-Rooter is only company that gives free estimate. Rooter-Man has been around for 40 years. It is based out of Billerica, and the plumber is a young man in his mid thirties. He drove from Lowell. I am in Malden. This rooter company has a fully stocked van. It charges a flat fee of $230 whether or not it can clear the clog. There is no negotiation. The plumber was there for about 15 minutes, could not clear the clog. I had a smaller clean out, only 2 inches. If he had to come back after I upgrade to 4 inches clean out, it would have been another $230. He told me the 1890’s cast iron pipe probably collapsed, or in the past, they install one trap for the whole house, and that could had issue. He cannot insert the camera because the opening barely fits, and if pipe has water, camera cannot see anything, and his company no longer does excavation crew. Him and his boss would not be willing to give any discount even though they cannot fix the issue nor in the future if I give them more business. I just moved into the area, I would not hire them again. Called Roto-Rooter, it’s a much safer choice.
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1 change recorded — last scanned Sep 8, 2026.
Complex old-house repairs4.4
One customer's used them for 40-plus years4.2
Technician praised1.6
State-verified plumbing license2.8
