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Drains By James Having trouble with your drains? For fast, reliable and affordable drain cleaning services in your area, call Drains By James Inc today at (781) 933-4304. Local residents and businesses rely on Drains By James Inc for all their drain needs and so can you. We look forward to welcoming you as a customer and being your preferred drain cleaning company in the future.

Camera Inspections of Sewer Lines & Many Other Types of Drains (Includes Locating and USB). Drains by James, family owned and operated, has the expertise and dedication required to handle all of your drain cleaning needs.
Services
Drains By James Inc offers a wide range of professional drain cleaning services to help you protect, maintain, and clean out your drains when necessary. We understand that disaster can strike at any moment and that is why we offer emergency services 24/7. Not only will Drains By James Inc be available when you need us, but all our work is guaranteed for maximum satisfaction.
As a business owner, keeping your drain lines is an important maintenance to keep up with. Any malfunction or leak could potentially cause a damper in your business. Trust Drains By James Inc to do a complete reliable drain cleaning service to ensure your business runs smoothly and efficiently for you and your customers.
Drains By James provides communities in the Boston, Massachusetts region with trenchless pipelining service. This allows you to repair and salvage your underground pipes, without having to do a complete excavation and landscaping of the land. Our team is certified and carries the proper equipment to install a pipe within the existing old piping.
Reviews (50)
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Charlene O.
Jun 15, 2022
Last week my elderly parents ended up with a clogged toilet. I drove to their house (I live 45 min away) to try to plunge the toilet. That did not work. I called multiple companies who offered 24 hour emergency appointments, but they were booked solid. One company in Somerville, MA called me back and gave me the number for Drains by James. I called and within a couple of hours, Angel came out.

He was truly an angel! So respectful of my elderly parents and he got the job done! I cannot recommend this company highly enough. Kudos also to the other company for recommending them.
Taylor Yencho
May 06, 2022
Front office and our service technician were both friendly, transparent, professional and knowledgeable. They gave me a general idea of what it would cost for the service prior to booking and were able to get to our house within two hours to unclog our kitchen drain. Angel took time to explain the cause of the clog and how to help prevent it. I would highly recommend them!
Joy B.
Apr 29, 2022
I needed a clean out of grease in my main drain which was causing my kitchen sinks to back up. Daniel arrived early, was very respectful, friendly and professional. He was able to clean out the drain, sanitize the area and inform me of how to flush the main drain monthly to keep things moving. I appreciate the great service and will use them again when needed. Thank you, Daniel and Drains by James and see you next year for the annual clean out!
Zachary Schoening
Apr 24, 2022
My kitchen sink clogged around 6 PM on a Friday evening. Nelson arrived within an hour -- friendly and professional, he graciously endured my muddled explanation of the problem and thoroughly examined the sink and the line. He asked a couple key questions and got right to work snaking the pipe. My sink was draining again in minutes, and the whole experience was done in less than half an hour. Thank you Nelson and thank you Drains by James for a worry-free weekend!
Jennifer Martin
Apr 21, 2022
Drains by James responded within the hour for emergent service. Dan was knowledgable and thoughtful in diagnosing issue. Explained everything very well and an expert in resolving plumbing drain issue. Excellent attitude and expertise, friendly and even cleaned up before leaving. Service: Drain cleaning
Adam F.
Apr 21, 2022
Called after calling my regular plumber who could not come for over a month. Drains by James had someone out first thing the next morning to clear a clogged drain. Daniel was fast and professional and did a great job. Would definitely recommend.
Gerald N.
Apr 20, 2022
I discovered a broken check valve in my basement gray water system - I was fearing the worst. Drains by James was a recommendation by my local plumber - Ryan Grant. Nelson the Tech for Drains by James showed up on site, quickly summarized the issue for me. Nelson showed up when promised, fixed the issue faster than I expected abs was neat abs virtuous in the process! Very impressive - 100% satisfied.
D. R.
Apr 19, 2022
I was having issues with toilet and tub draining. I called Sunday evening and received a call back right away to set a monday am appt. Greg and Derek came early (I recd text) which was great. I thought the issue was a blocked outside septic to house pipe but they went thru house to confirm it wasn't something less minor which would have saved me a little money. They confirmed it was outside so they dug up septic cover n snaked the pipe to house. Success! And quick! I would highly recommend Drains by James!
Cam S.
Apr 14, 2022
We called them on Easter morning to clear a blocked kitchen sink drain. Nelson arrived on time and was extremely courteous and friendly, he cleared the drain in no time at all and also provided some tips to ensure it didn't happen again. Fantastic service. Service: Drain cleaning
Anthony Bissell
Apr 12, 2022
I've used this place multiple times to clear a main sewer drain. They come out in a couple hours and they're usually $150-200 cheaper than the name brand companies (Rapidflo and Rotorooter). If I recall correctly, it's usually about $375. Their techs have always been nice and were able to help fix a piping issue when our main pipe collapsed (see pic). I would definitely recommend them to others.
Nick Spidale
Apr 09, 2022
Called Drains by James about a totally clogged bathroom sink. They had a technician at our house in less than 2 hours. Daniel F. explained what he was going to do, and other options if that didn't work. Daniel had our drain cleared within 10 minutes! Problem solved quickly, plus a guarantee on the work. Very happy with the service from Daniel; would definitely use again.
Jeff Pierce
Apr 07, 2022
We were very happy with this service. They were prompt and friendly on phone and text. Fast same day appointment. Hank arrived and was very good at the job, and at explaining the situation, which was a tough drain issue. He was friendly and got us back quickly. Happy to recommend! Service: Drain cleaning
Rick Smyers
Apr 07, 2022
I had an overflowing drainpipe and Drains by James was there within an hour. Daniel was very professional and helpful. He figured out it was a city sewer problem and helped take care of the immediate mess until the city fixed it. Service: Drain cleaning
Chris C.
Apr 05, 2022
Annual clean out today of grease line and main drain. Hank who has been coming to our home for a number of years and knows it's quirks is friendly, professional and very informative about our specific issues. Always our go-to and it's helpful to get annual reminders to keep ahead of problems.
Karen W.
Mar 29, 2022
I contacted Drains By James yesterday in late afternoon and explained that my washing machine drain was blocked. They said a technician would arrive at my home the next day at 10 AM. Hank promptly arrived at my home at that time. I was very impressed with his courteous, pleasant and friendly manner. I explained my previous efforts to solve the problem as he listened carefully and patiently.

He then explained to me what he thought the problem was how he intended to fix it. He then proceeded to send a power snake down the drain to approximately 30 feet or so and successfully solved my problem. The fee of $204 was, I felt, very reasonable and fair. Hank was very knowledgeable and efficient as he completed the task. I would highly recommend Drains By James to anyone and would certainly use them again. Roger W.
Cindy W.
Dec 30, 2021
My condo uses this company and they always do a good job so my review is not about that. The last few days I've heard my neighbor's garbage disposal turn on, heard a loud gurgle, and large chunks of gross stuff came up into my tub. I asked him if he thinks it came from my upstairs neighbor's garbage disposal possibly not working right.

He looked at me and said If that's what you want to think'. JFC dude, leave the condescending snark at home. I think he was angry that I asked him to put a towel under the machine because it vibrates and I didn't want my tiles damaged. But who knows why. Everyone is already stressed due to covid, people are rude in public, and none of us deserve to be treated with contempt. and here's this guy being an absolute tool towards me in my own HOME! The company might want to consider only sending him to homes with no females since he can't seem to hide his disdain. 12/30/21, 9:10 am in Stoughton.
Howard Herzog
Dec 01, 2021
Drain clogged on a Sunday. Could not use any water in house. They came within an hour, analyzed the problem, and fixed it quickly. Steve was very friendly and explained exactly what he was doing. Extremely happy. Service: Sewer repair
David G.
Nov 22, 2021
Steve from Drains by James arrived promptly on a Monday morning to deal with our blocked drain; he was able to clear the drain and then had to locate the trap to the outside (we live in an old house). He worked very hard to clear the drain and find the trip. We were very pleasure. He was not only very efficient, but very pleasant and explained all that he did. We would highly recommend this service. Pat G.
Patrick Schreiner
Nov 18, 2021
We just moved into a new house and had a serious drain clog causing a water backup. Drains By James sent a technician out quickly. Our technician, Daniel, did an incredible job to keep us updated with exactly what was being done and why. He helped us clear a deep, pretty significant main drain clog. Now our drainage is working perfectly. I couldn't recommend this company more highly!
Jessica E.
Nov 04, 2021
I highly recommend Drains By James. I had a backup of the sewer line and it was a mess in the basement. Steve the tech was very friendly and professional. He was able to fix the problem and sanitize the area. 5 Star Service! Jessica E.
Edwina D.
Oct 31, 2021
Steve arrived at our house in the estimated time given. He checked out our drain problem and cleared it in a timely manner. Steve was very prompt and professional. The price was reasonable. This is the second time we have had Drains By James rescue us in two different clogged drain problems. I would highly recommend them for any drain problem you might have
Adam Shipley
Sep 30, 2021
Had main sewer line slow to a trickle on a Saturday and found out when washing machine drain overflowed. Called Drains By James and a couple hours later Steve arrived and worked for over 3 hours to remove all the roots in the main sewer line that were causing the slow drain. Refused to leave until the camera showed (and showed me the video feed so I could see it too) an unblocked pipe to the street so I didn't have to worry about scheduling a follow-up during the work week. Wanted it done right and I respected the professionalism of their expert.
Sonya Porter Craig
Sep 25, 2021
Dave came out tonight to fix a backed up sewer system. He did a fantastic job. He found 2 different spots and cleared them out. Great job I highly recommended Drains by James!
Sonya Porter Craig
Sep 25, 2021
Dave came out tonight to fix a backed up sewer system. He did a fantastic job. He found 2 different spots and cleared them out. Great job I highly recommended Drains by James!!
Michael DePierro
Sep 22, 2021
It's hard to find good help these days. Steve was very professional and knowledgeable and spoke highly of his company which is rare these days. When the job was complete he cleaned up and explained what he did. I would highly recommend this company Thank you Steve Service: Drain unblocking
Melissa H.
Sep 21, 2021
We were having septic issues and were referred Drains by James by our septic company. Wow did we strike gold with this referral! Not only was Steve an hour earlier than i was told he could come, but he also did a great job. He snaked our main septic drain and offered information on the system and how it works and what the job entailed before he began.

He is very knowledgeable! He also took great care in protecting my flooring and property when doing his work. We had back up from our septic in the tub prior to his arrival. Before he left he cleaned and disinfected the tub for me! That was SURELY above and beyond! I am so appreciative and highly recommended this company because Steve was amazing and clearly enjoys taking pride in his work and helping his customers!
Fran D.
Aug 26, 2021
I was very happy with the quick service I got by Drains By James. The fellow that did the job his name was Steve he was very professional cleaned up very well, He knew what the problem was right away You could tell he was a professional with drains. Thanks again for the quick and good service. I would highly recommend Drains By James. Fran
David Soffer
Aug 23, 2021
Daniel was amazing! He successfully unclogged the bathtub drain, all the while calmly explaining what he was doing. He was professional and had a good attitude, and I would highly recommend Daniel and the entire Drains by James staff for any future need. Service: Drain unblocking
Stig Bolgen
Aug 18, 2021
Steve showed up early and got our kitchen sink clog cleared promptly. He also noticed an unrelated leak and he fixed that also. And he was a pleasure to chat with. And the price was very fair. Another happy customer. Service: Drain unblocking
KingKyle
Aug 01, 2021
Came out same day to fix my clog in my tub and sink. Was very professional. Did a great job and even cleaned up after himself. A+
May Chang
Jul 17, 2021
Drain by James came over last week fixed clogs in bathroom sink and tub. I'm happy with the result. Service: Drain unblocking
Joyce A. Ratcliffe Mullen
Jun 21, 2021
Daniel came to our rescue. We had a drain issue with the tub and the sink. Daniel was very prompt, courteous and knowledgeable. He made quick work of the job and cleared the drain. He then proceeded to clean up. We will call Drains by James, Inc. if need be ill the future. I highly recommend Daniel and Drains by James, Inc.
Joyce A.
Jun 21, 2021
Daniel came to our rescue. We had a drain issue with the tub and the sink. Daniel was very prompt, courteous and knowledgeable. He made quick work of the job and cleared the drain. He then proceeded to clean up. We will call Drains by James, Inc. if need be ill the future. I highly recommend Daniel and Drains by James, Inc.
Sonia B.
Jun 03, 2021
Daniel was fast and afficante. Fixed everything and explained everything well. Highly recommend
James Crowley
May 21, 2021
Hank was efficient, courteous and professional. Job was done quickly and neatly and quickly. Price was fair. Third time used always pleased. Service: Drain unblocking
Simon P.
Apr 05, 2021
Did my sewer pipe video inspection and root clearing. Did a great job. Friendly workers (two guys worked the job). Professional and conformed to covid-safe procedures (in my opinion!). And they were right on time. I'd recommend them to a friend or a neighbor.
Jason Syring
Feb 18, 2021
Excellent crew, great service, top notch. Came out to my house and took care of the problem and went beyond and cleaned up the mess awesome job guys!
Nicole Vanyo Syring
Feb 15, 2021
I called them with an emergency on a Saturday afternoon, they were able to come that night (5pm on a Saturday!) and had our problem fixed in less then an hour! They knew exactly what to look for, which was comforting after dealing with this issue and several other plumbing companies all day. We can’t thank you guys enough!
Sarah S.
Feb 07, 2021
A good and responsive plumbing company. We worked with Drains by James when they were subcontracted by another plumbing company when that other one couldn't send someone here fast enough to fix our back-up. Drains by James found the problem quickly and left; but they hadn't connected the toilet fully, and it started leaking immediately. To their credit, they returned to fix that and snaked the line, making sure the house was clear before leaving again.
John B.
Nov 10, 2020
We own a three family house in Cambridge and have had a number of drain problems over recently. Drains by James is our first choice to fix these problems. They respond promptly and at the scheduled time. Their employees are always courteous and responsive. They are careful to comply with COVID safety, social distancing, and mask requirements. I recommend them when you have a drain problem,
Dyke T.
Jul 08, 2019
Scheduled main drain scope to determine what was causing water back-up. About 30 minutes prior to scheduled appointment we received a confirming text message. The service personnel arrived on time. They performed the scope service and provided a thumb drive with a recording of the video. Mark and Daniel provided a written summary of their findings and contacted our primary plumbing service to review their findings and recommendations. Both Mark and Daniel were prompt, courteous and professional. We highly recommend Drains by James.
Phil O.
Sep 04, 2018
Shortly after the service that was performed in June, the owner left several voicemails for me, trying to make things right. He apologized for his (former) employee and cut me a check for the difference in the two services and mailed it out same-day. I may use them again.
Cat L.
Sep 02, 2017
Worst holiday to travel on but Mark was here within the hour of my call to save the day. This was my third time using them and happy to have dependable and honest people to help me.
Tyler R.
Feb 13, 2017
Called for an annual maintenance for sewer cleaning (drain NOT clogged) and it was completed. 2 days later my tenant calls saying they are staying in a hotel because the sewer backed up. Drains by James comes out again to do a sewer cleaning and camera of the line. I am charged an additional $400 +/- because of an issue they caused because I was concerned they had cracked the pipe cleaning it out.

It turns out they just didnt clean the line properly. What upsets me even more is when I call to discuss, Matt who answers the phone was extremely rude telling me how the machine costs $30,000 and that they would never issue credit back to me. This was an issue that they caused and I eat the bill for it and on top of it couldn't even discuss with this guy Matt on the phone because he was so combative.

When issues arise that is when a company shows its true colors. Ive had these guys out every year for 3 years now but will be looking else where because of how they handled it.
Ralph C.
Aug 19, 2016
Called James and explained my problem with the laundry line. He said he would have a man over in 15 minutes. Sure enough Steve arrived at my door in what was in my opinion record time. Steve looked over the situation and went to his truck to retrieve his power drain opener. He stated the situation was a build up of lint over many years. He proceeded to unplug the line in a very professional manner. He was also very neat. I would highly recommend this company if the need to use their services ever arises.
Joanne R.
May 14, 2016
Initially My experience was not great. This company came out 3 days in a row and Charged me hundreds of dollars each day. They finally were able to resolve the problem and did not cash the last check for the last day of service. I would consider using them again since they were eventually able to remedy the problem. The owner apologized for the inconvenience and asked if there was anything else he could do to remedy the situation, making me willing to give them another chance, should the need arise.
Curt P.
May 12, 2016
Can't help but give these guys 5 stars and here's why. After calling other plumbing companies who came out and charged for basically doing nothing, James came by and quickly remedied the bad shower drain that plagued us for YEARS! So after hundreds of dollars wasted- Drains By James made my shower normal again! Thank you!
Li F.
Dec 18, 2015
This was a rec from my plumber. They came fairly quickly on a Saturday when our condos had a sewage back up. It was not a quick process, but saved us from a big mess. $60 weekend fee was reasonable and its not something that you can wait on. Mark was very pleasant and worked hard. Would recommend. I just wish plumbing had a warning system before these kinds of things got ugly.
Eileen M.
Sep 22, 2014
Recommended by my plumber for a nasty clog (twisty pipes). Here within a couple of hours of my call, unclogged, recommended a better hair strainer, no mess, no fuss. Respectful and helpful.
T. C.
Mar 02, 2014
AWESOME! I tried troubleshooting my clogged kitchen drain with a plunger, vinegar/baking soda/hot water (multiple times), then the dreaded Drano. I then hired a Task Rabbit with good intentions, but the 25foot snake did not solve the problem. 3 days into a clogged sink (including no use of my dishwasher), Drains by James was recommended by my building management company. Drain technician arrived with one piece of equipment and was confident that the issue would be solved in little time. (Mike I think his name was) went to work and 10-15 minutes later, DRAIN FIXED! Such a relief. Highly recommended! Get the job done right!