ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — Matt Hickman, owner of Mr. Rooter, Kean’s Pump Shop and other plumbing businesses in St. John’s, says it’s a relief his workers will be able to make emergency home repairs.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Hickman says his companies had received over 150 calls for service, some from homes with burst pipes, others with backed up sewer lines.
During the height of the emergency, Hickman had concerns about his company’s ability to get out and fix those issues for people who were not only stormbound, but dealing with water and heating issues.
On Wednesday, Mayor Danny Breen said people facing such issues will be able to access emergency services to get the issues repaired.
“If somebody is having an emergency like that, they need people to go there, that would be an emergency service that they can attend to,” said Breen.
Hickman says the news comes as a great relief to himself and the residents of the St. John’s area who were dealing with flooding and heating issues in their homes.
"The mayor has said residents can get an emergency service attended to, so I’m happy with that direction," Hickman said. "We know it’s not the time to do optional work like home improvements and minor repairs, but this allows our industry to respond to significant emergencies and help people who are in significant need. We appreciate that clarification and we’re happy to be able to get started."
The companies have been out making the emergency repairs since Thursday.
