Walk-in tub checklists

Ask every salesperson: what is the tub's fill volume in gallons; will my water heater handle it and is any upgrade included; does this model need a dedicated circuit and is that in the price; which door type and does my bathroom have the clearance; what exactly is excluded; who installs, and are the plumbing and electrical trades licensed; what is the cash price versus the financed price.

Require in the contract: the exact model, itemized scope including plumbing, electrical, tile and wall repair and old tub disposal; who pulls permits; start and completion dates; payment milestones with meaningful money held to completion; the manufacturer's product warranty and the installer's labor warranty attached as documents; and the cancellation terms with the deadline stated.

Test at handover, with the installer present: the tub is level; a complete fill produces no leak at the door; the drain empties in the stated time; every jet, blower, heater and control works; the faucet reaches temperature without dropping; and there is no damage to walls, floor or door casing.

Collect at handover: the owner's manual, approved cleaning products list, warranty documents, the model and serial number, and a local service phone number for pump and gasket work.

How to choose

Bring a second person to every appointment

In-home selling to older homeowners is the known pressure point in this category. A second reader changes the dynamic.

Never sign the same day

Take the contract away. A company that will not hold its price for 48 hours is telling you the price is not real.

Get exclusions listed, not implied

Ask for a written line: 'not included — water heater, electrical circuit, tile repair, permits.' Silence is not a quote.

Confirm the cancellation deadline

In-home sales contracts often carry a right-to-cancel period. Ask what applies to yours and note the exact date in writing.

Hold back final payment

Keep a meaningful amount tied to the full-fill leak test and drain timing passing.