What Should I Do?

scoop4612 · 10-08-2008, 07:19 PM

I recently had some work done at my house - a new hot water heater installed. The contractors indicated that it would be easier to install if I replaced the old one with the same model. I said ok - there was never any indication/discussion of price. The next day they phoned me to talk about the bill - didn't want me to be surprised! When they told me the final price of the water heater, I was stunned - it was more than twice what I expected it to be - based upon cursory investigating of water heaters on the internet. Believe me the price is EXHORBITANT. I am now refusing to pay. They have turned it over to a collection agency. What should I do?

centex · 10-09-2008, 08:26 AM

You had work done without having first been provided the estimate of goods and labor?

What is the price that have charged compared to what your present model would have cost if YOU had ordered it.

(remember also that cheap is not always the best route to go with appliances that have the capacity to cause MAJOR damage to property when they fail- some water heaters are cheap for a reason).

VexatiousLitigant · 10-09-2008, 02:11 PM

How much are they charging you and what size water heater? Gas or electric?

Enigma · 10-09-2008, 04:26 PM

Did you sign any documents? If so, do you have a copy.

Most states have laws that require a written estimate in your situation.

Adding to Cetntex's thread, Mythbusters had a great episode on exploding hot water heaters. It's amazing on what pressurized steam can do.

jlynn · 10-09-2008, 05:25 PM

Probably would help to know what state the poster is in.

ilovemydogs · 10-11-2008, 08:08 AM

FWIW, I had a new hot water heater installed. this summer.
Cost for the WH was about $1.000 and $1500 installed.
Now I could have gotten a much cheaper water heater, and I also could have gotten the same water heater for about $300 less., BUT I would havd had to go and pick it up, move it in, and then set up an appointment to have it installed AND take the other water heater away.
One phone call, my plumber came over, looked at what I needed, we spoke about what the opiions were, we never talked cost, and within ONE DAY I had the new system.
Oh yes and I could pay the bill monthly if needed, even at a few hundred a month.
So for me and for many other people dealing with the same person you always have done business with and have been satisfied with, and is there for you in an emergency is the way to go. So what if you could have gotten a water heater for half the cost, sometimes in the lo ng run it is much cheaper to pay extra and have the deal done.
ILMD