Possibly a good LFS?

Unless this shop is an advanced aquarist shop that specializes in something, it sounds like hes going to go out of business.
 
how can you deny business to someone that doesn't bring in a water sample? Kinda shoot the whole "new Customer" thing down. I can understand a return policy with needing the water but as a shopper? That shop will not last. either that or that policy won't last. other than that policy it sounds like a very good shop.
 
Well, from what I can tell the place is going to be getting it's money more from the small exotic animals and marine fish than the freshwater stuff.
 
He may be a concerned hobbyist, that has high hopes. It is most likely they will adjust their practices to stay in business. It will be easy to to do the QT thing, though may cost more for him to have additional tanks and their care, up front.

The water sample issue may be a recommendation and a way to cover himself on a dead fish issue. He will probably still sell the fish, but with a more limited guarantee.
 
More LFS in Chicago are requesting a water sample from you tank to extend your fish warrenty to 1-3 weeks. Otherwise you get a 24 hour warrenty
 
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