One call reaches a licensed local plumber who replaces water heaters on the South Shore, usually the same day. Know what a fair price looks like before anyone arrives.
(617) 549-573424 hours, 7 days
If the heater is on an upper floor, water is already heading to the unit below. Shut the supply valve, then call the downstairs neighbor or building manager before you call anyone else.
A standard 40 or 50 gallon tank replacement on the South Shore typically runs in the low to mid thousands installed. A quote far above that, or pressure to upgrade to tankless on the spot, is a reason to pause.
Ask on the phone: is the price flat or hourly, does it include the permit and disposal, and what is the warranty on the tank and the labor. A legitimate plumber answers all three without hesitation.
Tanks last 8 to 12 years. If yours is in that range and leaking from the bottom, it needs replacement, not repair. Anyone selling a repair on a leaking tank is wasting your money.
No. This is an independent referral site for the South Shore. Calls go to a local licensed plumber. Ask for the license number on the call.
Turn off the cold water supply valve on top of the heater, then shut off the gas valve or the breaker. Put towels down and move anything valuable off the floor. Then call.
The landlord's. Massachusetts requires landlords to supply hot water and to fix a failed heater promptly. Shut the valve, photograph the leak, and notify the landlord in writing today. If you need the number for a plumber because the landlord asked you to arrange it, that is what this line is for.
Usually the unit owner for the heater itself and any damage inside the unit; damage to units below or common areas goes through the association's master policy and your HO-6. Document everything before the plumber removes the old tank.
Yes. Massachusetts requires a plumbing permit (and a gas permit for gas units). A plumber who says you do not need one is a warning sign.
No. You pay the plumber directly for any work you agree to.