Do you bother getting a permit to replace the water heater?
I called the county permitting office and they do require a permit to replace a water heater. Since it's highway robbery to pay a licensed plumber to do anything, I was wondering if most people ignore the permit issue when dealing with the heater, or is it better to go ahead and pay the plumber for liability reasons? thanks
Depends on if you want your insurance to cover the expenses from a potential flood or fire caused by said water heater.
water heater replacement always legally requires a permit and approval from the authority having jurisdiction. See IRC R105.2
And remember, building inspectors also use the internet.