Replacing a basin, toilet or tap

The short answer

A like-for-like basin, toilet or tap swap is typically a two to four hour plumbing visit. The complications are old isolating valves that will not close, waste pipework at a different height, and tiling that will not match once the old fitting comes off — so plan for a small amount of making good.

What the work involves

Isolating and draining, removing the old fitting, adapting supply and waste connections, setting and sealing the new unit, and testing for leaks under use.

Rules and responsibilities in Scotland

No certification applies to a like-for-like swap, but water regulations require appropriate backflow protection and a competent installation.

What commonly goes wrong

Buying a fitting with a different footprint from the old one, then discovering a bare strip of unfinished wall or floor behind it.

What it usually costs

Indicative ranges only, to help you judge a quote. They are not an estimate for your property — only the business doing the work can give you that.

• Fitting cost is often less than the fitting itself.
• Allow for tiling or flooring making good.
• Doing basin, toilet and taps together is one visit rather than three.

What to do, in order

1. 1Measure the existing footprint and waste height.
2. 2Choose a replacement with a similar footprint.
3. 3Check the isolating valves actually close.
4. 4Book plumbing and any making good together.
5. 5Test everything before the plumber leaves.

Local detail for the Lothians

• Older Edinburgh flats often have high-level or awkward waste runs from original conversions.
• Cast-iron soil stacks in tenements limit where a toilet can be moved to.
• Moving a soil connection is a much larger job than swapping the pan.

When you need a professional

Any change to soil pipework, or a move in position, needs a plumber and possibly building standards input.

Common questions

Can I move the toilet to the other wall?

Sometimes, but it depends on the soil stack position and the fall achievable. It is a bathroom project rather than a small work.

How long does swapping a toilet take?

Typically two to three hours for a like-for-like replacement.

Related pages

• Leaking taps and running toilets

  A drip or a running cistern is a small job that quietly adds to a metered water bill and stains the fittings.

• Tile and grout repairs

  Replacing cracked tiles and regrouting so a tired bathroom looks maintained again.

• Silicone and sealant renewal

  Replacing failed bath, shower and worktop seals before the water gets into the structure.