Slate Plumbing

I have a simple 50 gallon water heater that is old and needed replacement. It is free standing in a garage with easy access. I called for a quote and was told that they had to send someone out to provide a quote. Most people don't charge for this. State charges $99. Because of this, I asked if I could take a picture and send it to them in order to get an idea of the basic cost rather than commit to the $99 charge. He said that their "basic" installation starts at $800, which includes the tank and that additions are extra. With this information, I booked the service. I knew that we would be adding a pan and likely a line to drop any drainage from the pan to the other side of the step in the garage. The cost of these materials are an insignificant < $100. So, if it cost an additional couple hundred over the $800 base price, no big deal. After looking at the installation, they quoted $2200 for the water heater. So, the $800 was certainly a lie. These guys are con artists and jerks. Stay clear. Don't commit to a $99 fee when no one else in the business charges one.