Appliance installation in Chicago: Plan the Hookup

Define the installation before comparing quotes

Ask each installer to quote the same appliance model and scope. Include disconnecting the old unit, bringing the replacement into the room, supplying connection parts, positioning and leveling it, testing operation and removing packaging. Ask whether haul-away includes disconnection or whether you must arrange that work beforehand.

Describe anything you want changed: appliance location, fuel type, water supply, drain connection, outlet or cabinet opening. Ask the installer to separate appliance placement from plumbing, electrical work and cabinet modifications. Have them name the person responsible for each part and explain how they will handle a problem discovered after removal.

Use itemized written quotes to compare the total scope. Request separate amounts for labor, connection materials, removal, access arrangements and any permit-related work. The supplied city and utility guidance does not establish an appliance installation price range, so request a quote for your actual setup. [1] [2] [3] [4]

Resolve electrical changes before delivery

Chicago's electrical-only permit instructions require a permit for installations or alterations of electric equipment before work begins. The city also says an electrical contractor cannot connect to defective or unsafe existing wiring and holds the contractor responsible for overloads when adding apparatus to existing loads. [1]

Before switching appliance models or fuel types, send the contractor the manufacturer's electrical requirements and ask them to assess the existing supply. Request a written description of proposed changes and who will obtain the permit. Do not treat the presence of an outlet as confirmation that the contractor has checked the installation.

The city limits stand-alone electrical-only permits to work outside a separate construction permit. Its broader permit guide includes Express Permit instructions for electrical work, plumbing work and nonstructural interior alterations. If your appliance purchase forms part of a remodel, ask the contractor to confirm the appropriate route with the Department of Buildings. [1] [4]

Arrange gas disconnection before moving the appliance

Peoples Gas advises customers to have older, uncoated brass connectors replaced with stainless steel or plastic-coated brass connectors. It directs customers to use a qualified professional and warns against moving appliances because movement can break an old connector. Do not pull a gas appliance out to photograph its hidden connection. [2]

Ask who will inspect the connector, disconnect the old appliance and connect the replacement. Confirm those arrangements with the delivery and haul-away teams so nobody starts moving the unit before the professional completes the necessary work. Include connector assessment in the scope instead of assuming delivery includes it. [2]

If you smell gas or discover a damaged gas line, Peoples Gas instructs you to leave the area immediately and call 866-556-6002. Stop installation preparations and follow that emergency instruction. [2]

Separate gas service upgrades from appliance hookup

Peoples Gas accepts applications for new natural gas service, service upgrades and service relocation. Ask your contractor whether the proposed appliance work requires one of these utility changes. Confirm this before committing to a delivery appointment. [3]

For service installation, the utility asks for a completed application at least one week before excavation. Submit the property site sketch and liability waiver with the application or within three business days afterward. You must meet its service installation requirements before scheduling and notify the utility when the site is ready. [3]

Peoples Gas says service installation will typically begin within ten business days after that readiness notification. Treat this as a utility planning milestone. Ask for your property's schedule before booking the appliance installer; this guidance does not promise that an appliance hookup will take ten business days. [3]

Prepare access and agree on completion checks

Measure the cabinet opening and the delivery path, including doorways, turns and stairs. Share the measurements and appliance dimensions with the installer. For an apartment or condo, ask building management about delivery hours, elevator reservations, protection requirements and permission for any shared utility shutdown.

Ask which hoses, cords, connectors or other parts the installer will supply. Agree on the response if the appliance does not fit or the existing connection needs repair: who authorizes extra work, how the installer prices it and whether they leave the appliance connected or return later.

Before the installer leaves, ask them to demonstrate the agreed operating checks, explain accessible controls and shutoffs, and document unfinished work. Keep the appliance instructions, invoice and any permit information together. Request a named contact for installation problems and clarify which issues belong with the appliance seller.

Peoples Gas service installation planning milestones

Choose the next step for your installation

Your hiring checklist

1. Share the exact model number and manufacturer's installation requirements.
2. Measure the opening and delivery route; send accessible photos without moving a gas appliance.
3. Get a written scope for disconnection, hookup, parts, testing and haul-away.
4. Ask who will assess electrical changes and handle any required permit.
5. Arrange professional gas connector assessment before removal.
6. Confirm building access, elevator bookings and any shutdown permissions.
7. Agree on extra-work authorization and completion checks before the appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an appliance replacement need a Chicago permit?

Define the work before deciding. Chicago's electrical instructions require a permit for installations or alterations of electric equipment before work starts. The supplied guidance does not establish a blanket exemption for appliance replacements. Ask the contractor or Department of Buildings to confirm requirements for your specific connections and changes. [1] [4]

Can I pull out my gas range to check the connection?

Peoples Gas warns customers against moving appliances because an old connector can break. Have a qualified professional assess the hidden connector and handle removal or replacement as needed. [2]

How far ahead should I arrange a gas service upgrade?

Peoples Gas asks for the service application at least one week before excavation and supporting documents with the application or within three business days. After you meet the installation requirements and notify the utility, it says installation typically begins within ten business days. Ask for your property's schedule. [3]

What should I ask about an installation quote?

Ask whether the quote covers disconnection, connection parts, positioning, testing and haul-away. Request separate pricing for proposed hookup changes and clarify who authorizes extra work. Confirm what happens if the appliance does not fit or the installer finds an unsuitable connection.