What Does a Bathroom Installation Involve?
Understanding the typical workflow of a bathroom installation helps you know what to expect. While every project is unique, a professional bathroom fitter will generally follow a structured plan to ensure a smooth and logical progression from start to finish. This organised approach minimises delays and ensures each trade completes their work at the correct time.
- 1. Consultation and Design: The process begins with you and your chosen fitter discussing your ideas, requirements, and budget. They will measure the space, assess the existing plumbing and electrics, and offer advice on layout, fixtures, and finishes.
- 2. Detailed Quotation and Contract: You should receive a detailed, written quotation that breaks down all costs for labour and materials. Once agreed, a formal contract is essential. A JCT "Homeowner Contract" is a good example of a fair and clear agreement.
- 3. Stripping Out the Old Bathroom: The team will disconnect the water and electricity before carefully removing the old suite, tiles, flooring, and any other fittings. This includes organising the responsible disposal of all waste, often through skip hire.
- 4. First-Fix Plumbing and Electrics: This is the crucial structural stage. Plumbers will run new pipework for the new locations of the basin, toilet, shower, and bath. Electricians will install new wiring for lighting, extractor fans, shaver sockets, and heated towel rails.
- 5. Plastering and Preparation: With the new pipes and wires in place, the walls and ceiling may need to be boarded and plastered to create a smooth, flat surface. If you're installing a wet room, this is when the specialist tanking (waterproofing) systems are installed.
- 6. Tiling and Flooring: The tiling can now begin. This is a highly skilled job that defines the look of the room. Once the wall tiling is complete, the new flooring is laid. This could be floor tiles, luxury vinyl, or another waterproof flooring solution.
- 7. Second-Fix Plumbing and Electrics: The second-fix stage involves connecting everything up. The sanitary ware (toilet, basin, bath) and shower enclosure are installed and plumbed in. Electricians will fit the light fixtures, switches, and the extractor fan.
- 8. Installation of Furniture and Fittings: Vanity units, cabinets, mirrors, the shower screen, towel rails, and toilet roll holders are all fitted at this stage, bringing the room together.
- 9. Decorating: Any non-tiled walls and the ceiling are painted using specialist bathroom paint that is resistant to moisture and mould. The skirting boards and door frames are also painted.
- 10. Final Snagging and Handover: The fitter will conduct a final inspection with you to create a "snagging list" – a list of any minor adjustments or finishing touches that are needed. Once you are completely satisfied, the project is signed off and handed over to you.
Understanding the Costs of a New Bathroom in the UK
The cost of a new bathroom installation can vary significantly depending on the size of the room, the quality of the fixtures and fittings, the complexity of the work, and your location in the UK. Costs are typically higher in London and the South East due to higher labour rates. The total price is generally a combination of labour, materials, and waste disposal.
Here are some guide prices to help you budget for your project.
Budget Bathroom Refurbishment
Estimated Cost: £2,500 – £5,000
This typically involves a like-for-like replacement of your existing suite (bath, toilet, basin) in the same positions. It includes standard-quality materials from well-known trade suppliers, basic tiling around the wet areas (bath/shower), and simple decoration. This is a great option for refreshing a tired bathroom on a tight budget.
Mid-Range Bathroom Installation
Estimated Cost: £5,000 – £10,000
This is the most common price bracket for UK homeowners. It allows for better quality sanitary ware, taps, and showers, as well as more extensive tiling or the installation of wall panels. You may be able to make minor layout changes, such as moving a basin. This price range could also accommodate features like a heated towel rail and built-in vanity units for a more polished, modern look.
High-End or Luxury Bathroom Project
Estimated Cost: £10,000+
For a high-end project, the sky is the limit. This budget allows for significant structural changes, such as moving walls or relocating the entire bathroom. It covers premium materials like natural stone tiles, designer fixtures, freestanding baths, and custom-built cabinetry. This category also includes complex installations such as a walk-in shower or a fully waterproofed wet room.
How to Choose the Right Bathroom Fitter on ServiceTasker
ServiceTasker is designed to help you find trusted tradespeople with confidence. When you receive quotes from bathroom installers on our platform, taking a few extra steps will ensure you hire the best professional for your job.
- Review Their Profile Thoroughly: Look at their full profile. Read their business description and look at the photos of their previous bathroom installation projects. This gives you a feel for the quality and style of their work.
- Check Customer Reviews: Reviews from previous ServiceTasker users are an invaluable resource. Look for comments on their communication, punctuality, cleanliness, and the overall quality of their finish.
- Verify Qualifications: Don't be afraid to ask for proof of qualifications. If your project involves electrical work, they must provide a Part P-certified electrician. Ensure they have the right expertise for the job.
- Confirm Their Insurance: A reputable bathroom fitter will have Public Liability Insurance. This protects you and your property in the unlikely event of an accident or damage during the installation. Ask to see a copy of their insurance certificate.
- Get Detailed, Written Quotes: Don’t just rely on a verbal estimate. Request a detailed, itemised quote from at least three different bathroom fitters. This allows you to compare costs accurately and ensures there are no hidden extras.
