Water Heaters - Unknowledgable Female - Need a new water heater

I just found out that my water heater is leaking. So, I am assuming it will have to be replaced. I am a single female, who knows nothing about replacing the water heater, fee's etc. Someone told me that there will be county inspection fee's and all together could cost me up to $1000.00. Once the water heater is installed, say by Home depot or Lowe's, do I have to have an inspector come out? What is involved with installing a water heater cost wise? Thank you for your help!!

baileyginger, Welcome to the DIY Forums.
Not sure where you live but $1000 seems steep for a water heater including installation. Ask when you buy one, how much the total cost is. This figure should include any permit fees. Good luck.

Depending on the size, the level of quality (usually reflected in the warranty)

whether it's a conventional versus a power vented unit and any special

problems encountered with the installation,(Iv'e seen installations where it's

nec. to cut a hole in some finished basement wall) your cost will probably

start at 1/2 of that figure and some areas require a permit to replace a

water heater, some don't. One thing some areas require when replacing a

water heater, is doing an update to your chimney. If this is required, that

thousand dollar price may be more realistic.

Here in San Diego, a gas WH at HD will run about $250 to $400 depends on size, etc. Electrics are less. Install is $290. City permit is $89. The plumber will pull the permit. After the install is complete, you have to call the city to arrange for an inspector to come out and sign off.

If there are conditions in your home which are not up to current codes, these will have to be fixed at additional cost. This would be the exception rather than the rule; but could include such things here as routing of the TP outflow pipe.