Business Combinations

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Business Combinations

15.  Business Combinations

In the first nine months of 2012, we completed four business combinations within our Roto-Rooter segment for $5.9 million in cash to increase our market penetration in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida: Bend, Oregon; Shreveport, Louisiana; and Boise, Idaho.  A substantial portion of this aggregate purchase price was allocated to goodwill.  The operating results of these business combinations have been included in our results of operations since the acquisition date and are not material for the three and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2012 nor for the comparable prior year periods.