installation fee

USAGE SUMMARY

"installation fee" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to the cost associated with installing something, such as a new electronic device. For example, "The installation fee for the new cable box is $30."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Is there a one-time installation fee?

The New York Times - Tech

There is generally a one-time installation fee of at least $99 as well.

The New York Times

Subscribers pay a specified monthly service charge in addition to an initial installation fee.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"You are the one who paid the installation fee," he said.

The New Yorker

If they come one minute outside of it, the installation fee is on them.

The New York Times

Most ASPs charge a one-off installation fee, but much of their revenue comes from monthly subscriptions.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Installation fees and the dish can cost another $500 ,though discounts abound.

The New York Times - Tech

The new computers cost about $400 each, not including installation fees.

The New York Times

One contract, advertised only as "Free for six months", would have cost £500 over 18 months once installation fees and line rental were factored in.

Independent

Motorized blackout shades — which Mr. Borenstein estimates would cost a minimum of $1,000 for each window, plus installation fees — are scrapped.

The New York Times

Installation fees can reach $300, and monthly fees start at $30 or so and can reach more than $200 for the fastest lines.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing pricing, clearly specify if the "installation fee" is a one-time charge or if it applies regularly. This prevents misunderstandings and increases transparency with customers.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly differentiating the "installation fee" from other recurring charges, such as monthly service fees. State explicitly that the "installation fee" is a separate, one-time cost.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "installation fee" functions as a compound noun, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig indicates it's grammatically correct and commonly used to denote a specific charge. For instance, "The installation fee is $100."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "installation fee" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe the one-time cost associated with setting up a service or product. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it often surfaces in the context of discussing consumer costs for services like internet, cable, or home appliances. While alternatives like "setup cost" or "connection charge" exist, "installation fee" is direct and widely understood. When using this phrase, clarity is key: ensure you differentiate it from recurring service fees to avoid confusion. Finally, remember that companies may occasionally offer promotions to waive this fee, so it's worth inquiring about potential discounts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

setup cost

Focuses on the expense related to setting something up, broader than just installation.

connection charge

Specifically refers to the fee for connecting to a service like internet or utilities.

activation fee

Emphasizes the cost of activating a service, often used for subscriptions or accounts.

service initiation fee

A more formal way to describe the charge for beginning a service.

initial setup payment

Highlights the payment made at the beginning for setting up a product or service.

one-time setup charge

Specifies that the setup cost is only charged once.

deployment cost

Used when referring to installing and configuring software or systems.

configuration fee

Relates to the cost of configuring a device or software to work correctly.

implementation fee

Commonly used in business contexts to refer to the cost of implementing a new system.

onboarding fee

Specifically associated with the cost of bringing a new customer or client onboard.

FAQs

How is "installation fee" different from a service fee?

An "installation fee" is a one-time charge for setting up a service or product, while a service fee is usually a recurring charge for the ongoing provision of that service. Consider alternatives like "setup cost" or "connection charge" if the distinction isn't clear.

What's another way to say "installation fee"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "setup cost", "connection charge", or "activation fee". The best choice depends on what is being installed.

Is it common to have an "installation fee"?

Yes, it's very common to have an "installation fee" for services like internet, cable, and certain home appliances. This fee covers the cost of the technician's time and any necessary equipment for the initial setup.

Can the "installation fee" be waived?

Sometimes companies offer promotions where they waive the "installation fee" to attract new customers. It's always worth asking if there are any current promotions or discounts available.