Replacing a water heater: questions to ask before you hire

California’s plumbing classification, C-36, includes “installation of any type of equipment to heat water” and “all gas appliances, flues and gas connections” according to CSLB’s official description (CSLB C-36). That is why this directory lists C-36 licensees. It does not tell you which of them install water heaters — ask.

Before the estimate

Know what you have. Note whether the current unit is gas or electric, tank or tankless, and its approximate size; a business can quote more accurately with a photo of the label.
Check the license first. Follow our license-check guide.
Get three written bids for the same scope, as CSLB suggests.

What to ask

Is the estimate itemized? Unit make/model, labor, parts (valves, connectors, venting), permit fees, and haul-away of the old unit.
Who pulls the permit? The City of Lancaster lists “Residential Water Heater” and “Commercial Water Heater” permits among its online permit types, and Palmdale’s fee schedule lists a charge for water heaters. Ask whether a permit and inspection are included, and confirm with your city or county building department. See the Lancaster permits page and Palmdale Building and Safety.
What changes might the code require? Venting, gas connection and relief-valve discharge details can differ from the old installation. Ask the business to explain any added items before you agree.
What do the warranties cover? Manufacturer warranties and the business’s workmanship warranty are different; ask for the terms in writing.
Timeline and payment. CSLB’s tips: avoid paying more than 10% down or $1,000 (whichever is less) and don’t let payments get ahead of the work.

Safety note

If you smell gas, leave the building and call your gas utility or 911 from outside — do not wait for a quote. For a leaking tank, shutting off water to the heater is a common first step; your plumber or utility can show you where the valves are.

General information only. This directory is not a contractor and does not give plumbing advice or quotes. It does not know which listed businesses take which jobs — contact the business directly, verify its license at CSLB, and make your own decision. You contract with and pay the business directly.

Next steps

Browse Lancaster or Palmdale licensed-plumber listings, and read how to check a license on CSLB.