$700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
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$700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Our run-of-the mill dishwasher needs replacing and our condo requires the installation be done by a licensed plumber. I sent photos to two different plumbers in Chicago. They both surprisingly quoted me $700! I could not believe why it was so high. In past I have it done for less than $150 by regular appliance installers.
There is nothing unusual about this dishwasher, so the quotes make no sense to me. Could someone shed some light on why they would charge this? It makes me afraid of ever having to use a plumber.
There is nothing unusual about this dishwasher, so the quotes make no sense to me. Could someone shed some light on why they would charge this? It makes me afraid of ever having to use a plumber.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
They don't want the job.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
How will the condo association know?
I would do the install myself, assuming you are physically able.
JT
I would do the install myself, assuming you are physically able.
JT
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
We just ordered a small (18in.) dishwasher that cost $579 and delivery and installation by the seller was an additional $159.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Just take the dishwasher inside and install it yourself. How would they even know you installed a dishwasher? Its not difficult.
And like someone else said...they dont want the job. They jacked the price up so high that if you agree then they will do the work because there is no way they would pass up that much money for such a simple job that will take 30 minutes.
And like someone else said...they dont want the job. They jacked the price up so high that if you agree then they will do the work because there is no way they would pass up that much money for such a simple job that will take 30 minutes.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
This sound borderline unethical, i.e way overcharging someone. If I ever had a real problem I would never call them.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Good thing it's a replacement, since the connections are already in place. It would be much more $$ if they were doing it from scratch.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
I installed my own recently. My first step was to go to Lowes and get a hose to replace the garbage water line that came with the dishwasher. Stainless braided jacketed lines with something like 2000 psi rating. I have no interest in water leaks. Installation is dead easy. Just shut off the water line and the breaker before you start.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
You've missed the boat on this one. Good thing you do not want to do the install yourself. It is unethical...but if some chump is willing to shell out $700 for someone to install a dishwasher...they'll happily accept it. Like shooting fish in a barrel. I dont blame them at all.knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 12:57 pmThis sound borderline unethical, i.e way overcharging someone. If I ever had a real problem I would never call them.
nuff said...im out
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Some plumbers are only interested in bigger jobs (whereby they can make a day out of something) and thus turn down smaller jobs by offering a high price.
I'd get some more quotes. See if you neighbors have a name.
I'd get some more quotes. See if you neighbors have a name.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
The only things I can think of are your pictures showed some significant issues that would have to be addressed, they don't want the job and are pricing their quote as such, OR you didn't specify that you were supplying the dishwasher....
I'd call and ask for clarification and, if there isn't some massive problem they have to fix, I'd call 4 other plumbers for quotes if they don't get to a reasonable price.
I'd call and ask for clarification and, if there isn't some massive problem they have to fix, I'd call 4 other plumbers for quotes if they don't get to a reasonable price.
Last edited by jlcnuke on Wed Sep 27, 2017 1:04 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Seems expensive to me but then again it is Chicago.
We recently purchased a Bosch from Lowes.
The took out the old one ,installed the new one in about half an hour.
I believe the installation was 99.00.
700 is off the charts.
Check out lowes in your area.
We recently purchased a Bosch from Lowes.
The took out the old one ,installed the new one in about half an hour.
I believe the installation was 99.00.
700 is off the charts.
Check out lowes in your area.
"One does not accumulate but eliminate. It is not daily increase but daily decrease. The height of cultivation always runs to simplicity" –Bruce Lee
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Then be held hostage by contractors. No water line will break and its an easy job, just slightly harder than hooking up a garden hose. If it breaks in the future, blame it on some plumber who's name you don't remember.knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 12:56 pm
Well if some water line breaks during their install, they will know and fine me out the wazoo!
Not interested in doing it myself.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
yes, that price is outrageous, but then plumbers make bank. Travel time to your apt, install time, travel time home.
fwiw: our dishwasher is not an easy install since we added a hardwood floor and its a tight fit under the kitchen counter.
fwiw: our dishwasher is not an easy install since we added a hardwood floor and its a tight fit under the kitchen counter.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
You only other option is to shop around. The job is simple, don't pay more than you need to.knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 12:56 pmWell if some water line breaks during their install, they will know and fine me out the wazoo!
Not interested in doing it myself.
JT
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Because the flight charges from Chicago to your town is around $600knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 12:46 pm Our run-of-the mill dishwasher needs replacing and our condo requires the installation be done by a licensed plumber. I sent photos to two different plumbers in Chicago. They both surprisingly quoted me $700! I could not believe why it was so high. In past I have it done for less than $150 by regular appliance installers.
There is nothing unusual about this dishwasher, so the quotes make no sense to me. Could someone shed some light on why they would charge this? It makes me afraid of ever having to use a plumber.
Seriously, why don't you ask the salesperson at the store, where you are planning to buy the appliance at, for delivery and installation - usually about $100 or so.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
If it's a simple installation, likely replacing an existing appliance, I've seen the delivery person install it for free. So it isn't just free delivery, but also installation. Try Home Depot and Lowe's.
Or does the $700 also include the price of the dishwasher?
Or does the $700 also include the price of the dishwasher?
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
If you run into a plumber at work, store, gym or anywhere ask for a cash price or if the guy does work on the side (outside of his company).
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
$700 is for labor only. Since it involves plumbing lines, the condo rules state it must be done by a licensed plumber. So some handyman from Craigslist won't be allowed. Are the installers from Home depot licensed plumbers?celia wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 1:21 pm If it's a simple installation, likely replacing an existing appliance, I've seen the delivery person install it for free. So it isn't just free delivery, but also installation. Try Home Depot and Lowe's.
Or does the $700 also include the price of the dishwasher?
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
I have replaced dishwashers in rental condos, and they too required licensed plumbers do the job.
I bought the dishwashers from Home Depot, they installed the new ones and took away the old ones for roughly $150. I never inquired if they used "licensed plumbers". I never even advised the condo board that I was replacing them, and if I had I would have given them the receipts from HD indicating that installation was included.
I bought the dishwashers from Home Depot, they installed the new ones and took away the old ones for roughly $150. I never inquired if they used "licensed plumbers". I never even advised the condo board that I was replacing them, and if I had I would have given them the receipts from HD indicating that installation was included.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Ask a friend or coworker for a plumber. Check Angie's List (it's free to join). It should be a $150 job
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
I bought a dishwasher from Costco for $700. I put it on my Costco Visa and it has a 4 year warranty as a result. That was $50 more than the cheapest I could find elsewhere, but had a 4 year warranty.
Do you know how much install, delivery and take away of old unit was? Zero. Nada. Nothing.
Go to Costco.
Do you know how much install, delivery and take away of old unit was? Zero. Nada. Nothing.
Go to Costco.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
How do they define plumbing lines? I'd read that as anything behind/upstream of the shutoff valve under the sink. Don't be afraid to break stupid rules if you can easily get away with it.knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 1:27 pm$700 is for labor only. Since it involves plumbing lines, the condo rules state it must be done by a licensed plumber. So some handyman from Craigslist won't be allowed. Are the installers from Home depot licensed plumbers?celia wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 1:21 pm If it's a simple installation, likely replacing an existing appliance, I've seen the delivery person install it for free. So it isn't just free delivery, but also installation. Try Home Depot and Lowe's.
Or does the $700 also include the price of the dishwasher?
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
I would guess that nobody in your building knows a licensed plumber needs to do the install. They just buy the dishwasher and have the store do the install and haul away. You should do the same....ignorance is bliss
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
$700 sounds reasonable for a licensed plummer in Chicago:
$200 for install/plummer
$100 for parking
$400 for security team
Sorry.
$200 for install/plummer
$100 for parking
$400 for security team
Sorry.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
We replaced our dishwasher by buying one on-line from Best Buy. Installation was included in the price so it was a better deal at the time then elsewhere. Best Buy sent a team of 2 guys out to deliver and install it. Everything went well.
As far as I know they installation team Best Buy sent out had all necessary licenses and credentials. I didn't ask any questions. They didn't volunteer any info. We're all good.
Maybe you need to get the install done when no one from the condo police is around. Best Buy had a pretty flexible schedule, maybe some weekday evening or the first thing on a Sunday morning would be possible.
As far as I know they installation team Best Buy sent out had all necessary licenses and credentials. I didn't ask any questions. They didn't volunteer any info. We're all good.
Maybe you need to get the install done when no one from the condo police is around. Best Buy had a pretty flexible schedule, maybe some weekday evening or the first thing on a Sunday morning would be possible.
The closest helping hand is at the end of your own arm.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
They sub-contract out to various licensed trades they have supposedly checked-out ahead of time but the delivery people probably aren't licensed tradesmen since they deliver a variety of appliances, many of which don't use water. For example, maybe they are bringing you a dishwasher and oven in the same visit and might be able to install both of them, but the delivery crew won't be a plumber and electrician. How hard is it to plug in a dishwasher and oven and attach the water lines? The hard part is lifting the stuff and getting it into position without damaging the floor.knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 1:27 pm$700 is for labor only. Since it involves plumbing lines, the condo rules state it must be done by a licensed plumber. So some handyman from Craigslist won't be allowed. Are the installers from Home depot licensed plumbers?celia wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 1:21 pm If it's a simple installation, likely replacing an existing appliance, I've seen the delivery person install it for free. So it isn't just free delivery, but also installation. Try Home Depot and Lowe's.
Or does the $700 also include the price of the dishwasher?
When I said "supposedly checked-out", they probably do background checks and verify some referrals/jobs they have done and confirm that they are licensed. (You can ask when you call up.) The tradesmen contract with HD ahead of time, probably at a fixed hourly cost. HD gets a cut of the cost, but to the consumer it is probably the same as if they called the tradesman themselves. The tradesman benefits since HD is sending them a steady stream of business so will often agree to the reduced price they get. We like it since if the job was done through HD, they guarantee it.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
... or ask some condo board members where they bought their dishwashers and who installed them. They can't forbid you from buying from HD and Best Buy. But really...
Do they require an electrician to install an oven or microwave? If not, it sounds like a condo board member is a plumber and is looking for more business.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
If you definitely decide your only option is to follow condo rules to the letter and pay thru the nose for a licensed plumber, I suggest you first confirm with the condo board that they require this for the replacement of an existing dishwasher. I can see some logic in requiring a plumber for an initial installation (even though I would DIY). However I consider replacement very different from an INSTALLATION since all of the required plumbing connections are already in place. Who knows, maybe there are some reasonable people on your condo's BOD.knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 12:46 pm Our run-of-the mill dishwasher needs replacing and our condo requires the installation be done by a licensed plumber.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Does this even count as "plumbing?"
There's a flexible hose after the shutoff valve that is probably connected to the dishwasher by a hose clamp, or something, right? I know I've done this twice before, and it was so inconsequential I don't even remember the specifics of it.
There's a flexible hose after the shutoff valve that is probably connected to the dishwasher by a hose clamp, or something, right? I know I've done this twice before, and it was so inconsequential I don't even remember the specifics of it.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Buy it from Home Depot/Lowe's/Costco and have them install it. No one from the HOA will dare say a thing, I bet.knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 12:46 pm Our run-of-the mill dishwasher needs replacing and our condo requires the installation be done by a licensed plumber. I sent photos to two different plumbers in Chicago. They both surprisingly quoted me $700! I could not believe why it was so high. In past I have it done for less than $150 by regular appliance installers.
There is nothing unusual about this dishwasher, so the quotes make no sense to me. Could someone shed some light on why they would charge this? It makes me afraid of ever having to use a plumber.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Or they had a bad experience where a not very competent owner or handyperson did some plumbing work which caused a leak or other problem for neighboring condo owners. It can be close shared premises in a condo.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
They actually do require an electrician if the installer has to put in a new outlet ( if old one was hardwired ).
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
As suggested above, double-check the HOA rules in case they don't actually require a plumber specifically.
In my state (Washington), even handymen and appliance installers are considered contractors and required to be registered with the state, bonded, and insured. I would think that should cover your condo association's concerns. There's nothing about a dishwasher replacement that should require an actual plumber.
The alternative, assuming the reason for the price is simply they're effectively fully booked at the moment, would be to simply say their schedule is full, and they're not interested in taking on overtime work instead of spending that time with their family, etc.
It seems you need to either keep searching for licensed plumbers genuinely interested in additional work, do it under the radar via a store installer or handyman, or appeal to condo board to allow you to use a handyman as an exception due to the hardship caused by the current contractor market conditions.
One last thought: There is a possibility a code-interpretation issue like this person ran into applies, and that drove the cost, although the contractor would likely have told you new requirements require more work than a normal replacement if that was the case:
https://rothmanshore.com/2014/05/11/rep ... -rewiring/
I call this a code-interpretation issue because in general, updated requirements like this only apply to new construction or renovations that directly affect the item covered by the code (eg, if you were moving the circuit that powers the dishwasher or plumbing for it to a different location in your kitchen), not for like in kind replacement or repairs. However, not all inspectors read the code the same way. A plumber or electrician facing a code change like that in an area where he knows from experience the inspectors reject the normal understanding of grandfathering might refuse to take on such work without updating to the latest code.
In my state (Washington), even handymen and appliance installers are considered contractors and required to be registered with the state, bonded, and insured. I would think that should cover your condo association's concerns. There's nothing about a dishwasher replacement that should require an actual plumber.
They're not overcharging. They're simply not interested in competing on price for small jobs in the current market.knightrider wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 12:57 pmThis sound borderline unethical, i.e way overcharging someone. If I ever had a real problem I would never call them.
The alternative, assuming the reason for the price is simply they're effectively fully booked at the moment, would be to simply say their schedule is full, and they're not interested in taking on overtime work instead of spending that time with their family, etc.
It seems you need to either keep searching for licensed plumbers genuinely interested in additional work, do it under the radar via a store installer or handyman, or appeal to condo board to allow you to use a handyman as an exception due to the hardship caused by the current contractor market conditions.
One last thought: There is a possibility a code-interpretation issue like this person ran into applies, and that drove the cost, although the contractor would likely have told you new requirements require more work than a normal replacement if that was the case:
https://rothmanshore.com/2014/05/11/rep ... -rewiring/
I call this a code-interpretation issue because in general, updated requirements like this only apply to new construction or renovations that directly affect the item covered by the code (eg, if you were moving the circuit that powers the dishwasher or plumbing for it to a different location in your kitchen), not for like in kind replacement or repairs. However, not all inspectors read the code the same way. A plumber or electrician facing a code change like that in an area where he knows from experience the inspectors reject the normal understanding of grandfathering might refuse to take on such work without updating to the latest code.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
My condo didn't have any water shut offs; it had to be done at the street. This could only be done And that is how I learned that the developer paved over half of the building shut offs when they converted from apartments to condos, without installing shutoffs for every faucet.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
I should have been a plumber.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Last time we had a dishwasher replaced it cost us $50 - we used the 'plumber' supplied by [Home Depot / Lowes] when we bought the washer, and they hauled away the old one! That's hard to beat. It would have cost me that much just to get rid of the old washer.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
It's a dishwasher with a power cord, a water line (hose), and a drain line (hose). This isn't real plumbing work. If you choose not to do it yourself, then have the store where you bought it send their installer for <= $100 and be done.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
I'm surprised at folks suggesting circumventing regulations put forth in condo docs. (Note: not the original poster.)Ruger wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2017 1:41 pm I have replaced dishwashers in rental condos, and they too required licensed plumbers do the job.
I bought the dishwashers from Home Depot, they installed the new ones and took away the old ones for roughly $150. I never inquired if they used "licensed plumbers". I never even advised the condo board that I was replacing them, and if I had I would have given them the receipts from HD indicating that installation was included.
It's relatively easy to enforce and mitigate the likelihood that "Bob" in 13A doesn't do something silly on a Sunday morning that affects 12A, 11A, 10A, etc. Will some folks do as they please? Sure. But if you want carte blanche to do as you wish (mostly), purchase a stand alone home.
In my time serving on the condo board serving our ~350 units, I've found that most folks pass around information about good/bad installation practices to the point that they synchronise with administration's requirements for licensure almost automagically. Many condo associations have message boards/chatrooms to discuss just these sorts of issues.
In the last year, our buildings saw an increase in the popularity in bidets. Five were installed. Two by licensed plumbers (no requirements names list - the folks used their choices and we recorded the proof of licensure and insurance) and three using ... handymen (they did not notify Administration of their plans to install). The three by handymen leaked, causing many thousands of dollars of damage. Repair costs were assessed to the unit owners, as well as fines for violating the binding agreements they signed when they moved in.
As an aside, we're not a heavy handed board. We do default to code, though, if we cannot achieve unanimous consensus. Just ask Admin or someone on the board. It's good to know someone on the board, anyway.
Polymath.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
It's an appliance
Do you need a plumber to hook up your clothes washing machine? The installation is nearly identical.
Do you need a plumber to hook up your clothes washing machine? The installation is nearly identical.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Hard to find folks to do work lately, everyone is booked!
You're Chicagoland so go to Abt in person or online and order your dishwasher, they'll do white glove delivery and install. Make sure to haggle with them on price, helps if you're buying more stuff.
I love Abt and am in no way affiliated. I'm sure most Condos in Chicago area you've seen an Abt truck outside delivering any manner of appliances.
Other option if you really want to have a license plumber, if you have a social site for your condo see if anyone else is interested in plumbing work. Maybe you can co-ordinate the dates and get someone to do the work (maybe a dishwasher and water heater or toliet etc.).
You're Chicagoland so go to Abt in person or online and order your dishwasher, they'll do white glove delivery and install. Make sure to haggle with them on price, helps if you're buying more stuff.
I love Abt and am in no way affiliated. I'm sure most Condos in Chicago area you've seen an Abt truck outside delivering any manner of appliances.
Other option if you really want to have a license plumber, if you have a social site for your condo see if anyone else is interested in plumbing work. Maybe you can co-ordinate the dates and get someone to do the work (maybe a dishwasher and water heater or toliet etc.).
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Same experience.Whirlpool DW from Lowes.$99 installation,no sales tax.
PS: I live in a Condo.
All the Best, |
Joe
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
They won't let ABT do the instal? ( for those who don't know ABT is a Chicago area base retailer who has consistently won kudos from Consumer Repoerts...my own experiences in the more than 40 years I have used' them are incredible) Given that they are one of the most reputable outfits in the country and 100 percent stand behind everything I find that really surprising. And ABT will charge very little for the install. I'd choose them over a licensed plumber any day.
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Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
Plumbers are giving you outrageous quotes because it's not their job to install appliances.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
I have been looking for a new washer and dryer and went on Costco website. if you are a member, they deliver and install the items for no upcharge. Might want to check if it applies to dishwashers.
Re: $700 to install a dishwasher seem by a plumber?!
In my area Lowe's seems to hire random people to do installs. I was naive enough to think they had competent Lowe's employees doing this.