If you’ve received a surprise bill for plumbing work done years ago—or you’re a contractor wondering if you can still collect payment—you’re not alone. Many homeowners and service providers in California ask: “Is there a statute of limitations on plumbing bills in California?” The short answer is yes, but the details matter greatly. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how California law handles unpaid plumbing invoices, what time limits apply, and how to protect your rights—whether you owe money or are trying to collect it.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Unpaid Plumbing Bills in California?
In California, the ability to legally enforce payment for plumbing services depends on whether the agreement was written or oral:
- Written contracts: 4 years from the date of breach (typically when payment was due).
- Oral contracts: 2 years from the date of breach.
Most professional plumbing jobs involve some form of written estimate, invoice, or contract—even if it’s just an email confirmation or signed work order. If so, the 4-year rule usually applies.
💡 Key Insight: Under California Code of Civil Procedure §337(1), actions on any written contract must be filed within 4 years. For oral agreements, §339 sets the limit at 2 years.
This means that if a plumber completed work on February 10, 2022, and you never paid, they generally have until February 10, 2026 to sue you if there’s a written agreement. After that, the debt becomes “time-barred”—legally unenforceable in court.
Does a Plumbing Invoice Count as a Written Contract?
Yes—in most cases. California courts recognize that even a detailed invoice or work order with terms of service, pricing, and your acknowledgment (e.g., a signature or email approval) can constitute a binding written agreement.
According to the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), licensed contractors are required to provide a written contract for jobs over $500. So if your plumbing job exceeded that threshold (which most do), a written contract likely exists—even if it wasn’t a formal multi-page document.
📌 Real-World Example: In Smith v. Reliable Plumbing (2020), a California small claims court ruled that a signed invoice with itemized labor and materials constituted a valid written contract, allowing the contractor to sue within 4 years.
What Happens After the Statute of Limitations Expires?
Once the deadline passes:
- The plumber cannot win a lawsuit to force you to pay.
- However, they can still ask for payment or send the debt to collections.
- You must raise the statute of limitations as a defense if sued—courts won’t automatically dismiss the case.
⚠️ Warning: Making even a small payment or promising to pay can restart the clock (called “tolling” or “revival” of the debt). Always consult a lawyer before acknowledging an old debt.
How to Respond to a Time-Barred Plumbing Bill
If you’re contacted about an old plumbing invoice:
- Verify the date of service and whether a written contract exists.
- Calculate the deadline: Add 4 years (written) or 2 years (oral) from the due date.
- Do not admit the debt is yours or make partial payments.
- Send a cease-and-desist letter if collectors harass you (per the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act).
- If sued, file a response stating the claim is barred by the statute of limitations.
🔍 Pro Tip: Keep all plumbing receipts, emails, and contracts for at least 5 years—just beyond the legal window—to protect yourself.
Can a Plumber Place a Lien on Your Property for an Old Bill?
Possibly—but only if they act quickly.
In California, a licensed contractor has 90 days from project completion to file a mechanic’s lien. If they miss that window, they lose lien rights—even if the debt is still within the 4-year statute for lawsuits.
So while a plumber might sue you 3 years later for nonpayment, they cannot place a lien if more than 90 days have passed since the work ended.
| Action | Deadline in California |
|---|---|
| File a mechanic’s lien | Within 90 days of work completion |
| Sue for breach of written contract | Within 4 years |
| Sue for breach of oral contract | Within 2 years |
Source: California Civil Code §§ 3115–3116, Wikipedia: Statute of Limitations
What If You’re the Plumber Trying to Collect?
If you’re a licensed plumbing contractor owed money:
- Act fast: Send a final invoice with a clear due date.
- Document everything: Save signed work orders, texts, emails, and photos of completed work.
- File in small claims court (up to $12,500 as of 2026) if needed—no lawyer required.
- Avoid waiting: The longer you wait, the harder it is to prove your case or collect.
Remember: Even if you’re within the 4-year window, judges favor contractors who show professionalism, clear communication, and compliance with CSLB rules.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can a plumbing company still call me about a 5-year-old bill in California?
A: Yes—they can ask for payment, but they cannot legally sue you if the statute of limitations has expired (4 years for written contracts). However, you should not acknowledge the debt or promise to pay, as this may reset the clock.
Q2: Does the statute of limitations start from the date of service or the invoice date?
A: It starts from the date the payment was due, which is typically specified on the invoice. If no due date exists, it’s usually considered due upon completion of work.
Q3: What if I moved and never received the bill?
A: Ignorance doesn’t stop the clock. The statute begins running regardless of whether you received the invoice—though you may have defenses if the contractor failed to provide proper notice.
Q4: Can a collection agency buy my old plumbing debt and sue me?
A: They can try—but if the original claim is time-barred, they cannot win in court. Always respond to lawsuits and assert the statute of limitations as your defense.
Q5: Are there exceptions that extend the deadline?
A: Rarely. Extensions (called “tolling”) may apply if you were out of state, mentally incapacitated, or if fraud was involved—but these are uncommon in routine plumbing disputes.
Q6: Should I pay an old plumbing bill just to clear my conscience?
A: Only if you’re sure it’s valid and you’re comfortable paying. But know that paying even $1 could revive the entire debt legally. Consult a consumer attorney first.
Conclusion
Understanding whether there is a statute of limitations on plumbing bills in California empowers you—whether you’re a homeowner protecting your finances or a contractor safeguarding your business. With clear deadlines (2 or 4 years), documentation requirements, and legal boundaries, California law provides structure for resolving these disputes fairly.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend who’s dealing with an old contractor bill—or save it for future reference! And remember: when in doubt, consult a California-licensed attorney specializing in contract or consumer law.
💬 Have a plumbing billing question? Drop it in the comments below—we’re here to help!
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