In 2024, I contacted Amerigas about purchasing our tank. After multiple unproductive conversations with customer service, I requested to speak with a supervisor. The supervisor directed me to 'review my contract,' emphasizing our commitment to the initial 3-year term. They mentioned that ending the contract early would incur a penalty fee and that selling us the tank was not an option. She informed us that the tanks have a lifespan of approximately 20 years. I inquired if they would replace our tank, given its age, and she replied that replacement would occur only if it were leaking.
* Despite the aging of our current tank, Amerigas has increased the annual lease charge by 12% over the past two years.
* Their propane gas prices for filling the tank are markedly higher than local market rates. When we attempt to negotiate, Amerigas remains firm, citing the contract that mandates all purchases and fillings must go through them.
* Amerigas frequently adds new fees to their services. According to the contract, "The fees and charges listed are not government-imposed, nor is any portion of them paid to any government agency. The company reserves the right to change its fees and charges at any time and without prior notice." Consequently, our financial burden has increased significantly over the past 4 years. Currently, there are three separate fees on top of the already inflated propane gas costs, with the contract detailing 20 "Fees and Charges" that Amerigas can impose at their discretion.
* Moreover, Amerigas recently entered our property without notice to install a tank monitor, a move permitted by the contract. Section 5 states that they have the right to access their equipment at any time. We, as lessees, are responsible for ensuring safe and unimpeded access, including keeping entry gates unlocked and clearing hazards such as ice, snow, water, and pets. From a customer service perspective, a simple call or email would have been appreciated, as we are held accountable for providing this access. If you're a renter, would you leave your door unlocked and kennel your pets just so the building owner can enter at any time?
We recently contacted Amerigas once more to request the purchase of our tank, but they denied our request again. Interestingly, we have heard that they have sold tanks to other homeowners in the past. According to Section 15 of our contract, "You and Company may mutually agree that Company will sell you the underground tank in lieu of physically removing the tank from (your) property."
* Considering terminating services with Amerigas is a costly decision. If your tank contains more than 5% propane gas at the time of contract termination, you will incur a fee. Therefore, you need to use up your propane gas and coordinate with another provider to time the transition. If you need a small amount of propane from Amerigas for coordination purposes, they will only deliver a minimum of 100 gallons and charge a will-call fee as well as a leak check charge, since the lessee drains the tank to less than 5%.
* Additionally, we are responsible for the excavation of the tank, furnishing fill, resurfacing, landscaping, and restoring our property. Amerigas will also bill us for a "tank pick-up fee." Based on our experience, there are likely additional fees we will be responsible for, as the 13-page Amerigas contract undoubtedly contains other loopholes that they will charge us for during the termination process.
We acknowledge that we followed the previous homeowner's decision to sign with Amerigas at the time of our home purchase. As newcomers to the propane gas supply, we were unaware of the available options. For those reading this, it is crucial to thoroughly review the Amerigas contract and fees when assuming home ownership. Additionally, compare local competitive prices and consider keeping your options open and flexible for purchasing propane gas. We're very disappointed and frustrated with Amerigas, as I'm sure you will be too. read more
