State-run plumbing
Unlike most states, Kentucky licenses plumbers and issues plumbing permits through the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction's Division of Plumbing. Water heater replacement requires a state plumbing permit and inspection, so ask any plumber whether the permit is included.
Water across Kentucky
Louisville treats Ohio River water, which is moderately hard. Lexington draws from the Kentucky River and reservoirs, and central Kentucky's limestone means hard water in many wells. Bowling Green sits in karst country with hard groundwater. Wherever the water is harder, tanks need flushing yearly. Kentucky repairs typically run $150 to $600 and gas tank swaps about $1,300 to $2,900; see water heater replacement.