What every quote should include
A complete installation quote covers seven line items:
- Site survey — included or separate fee?
- Tank cost (if installer is supplying), or confirmation of customer-supplied tank handling
- Excavation (underground only) — depth, fill material, dewatering if needed
- Tank set and anchoring
- Regulator(s) and yard line — distance, material, depth
- House connection and second-stage regulator
- Pressure test, permits, and inspection
Questions to ask each installer
- What's the state propane installer license number?
- Do you handle permitting, or do I?
- What's the typical lead time from contract to installation?
- Are appliance conversions (e.g. NG → propane) included or separate?
- What warranty applies to the installation work?
- Who's responsible if the install fails inspection?
- Do you bundle first-fill propane or is that separate?
Compare apples-to-apples
The headline 'installation price' is often misleading because installers bundle differently. Compare on all-in total to operational: site prep + tank + install + permits + first fill. Get this in writing from each candidate.
What's negotiable
- First-fill propane rate if the installer is also your future propane dealer
- Bundled appliance work (range conversion, water heater)
- Lead time — installers often have slack in the schedule that lets them prioritise specific dates
- Permit handling — installer doing it usually nets out cheaper than DIY permitting
FAQ
How many installation quotes should I get?
At least three. For higher-value projects (underground installations, large tank sizes), four to five quotes is reasonable.
Can I install the tank myself?
No. Every US state requires a licensed propane installer. DIY installation is illegal and uninsurable.