Fixington

Bathroom TV Installation

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Bathroom TV installation is a specialised electrical job that involves fitting a television display safely within your bathroom environment. Many homeowners choose to add a bathroom TV to enjoy music, news, or soaps while relaxing in the bath or getting ready in the morning.

Because bathrooms are wet rooms with high humidity and water risks, installing electrical devices like TVs requires careful planning, the right equipment, and professional expertise. This job is typically needed when:

  • You want to upgrade or add a TV in your bathroom.
  • You have no existing wiring that meets safety standards for electrical devices in wet areas.
  • You need to ensure the installation complies with UK electrical safety regulations.

A qualified electrician can make sure your bathroom TV is installed safely and works reliably in a challenging environment.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing a bathroom TV is not simply about mounting the screen on the wall. The process includes:

  • Choosing a TV model rated for use in bathrooms or selecting a suitable waterproof enclosure.
  • Assessing your bathroom’s electrical supply to ensure it can support the TV safely.
  • Planning a power supply route that keeps cables away from water sources, often involving IP-rated (Ingress Protection) outlet boxes.
  • Installing dedicated circuits or spur connections in line with Part P of the Building Regulations on electrical safety.
  • Installing a TV socket, typically on a switched fused spur to isolate power easily.
  • Mounting the TV or enclosure securely, often on a tiled or plasterboard wall designed for wet environments.
  • Testing the installation for safe operation and correct earthing/grounding.
  • Providing certification of electrical work where required.

Because of the moisture risks, ventilation, and proximity to water (sink, bath, shower), strict safety standards must be followed. Your electrician will choose suitable cables, outlets and mounting accessories designed specifically for bathrooms.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry
    Contact a qualified, Part P-registered electrician who has experience with bathroom electrical work. Discuss your requirements and provide details about your bathroom layout.

  2. Site survey and quote
    The electrician visits to assess your bathroom’s wiring, wall material, and likely cable routes. They check ventilation and electrical supply. They provide a detailed quote covering parts, labour, and any certification.

  3. Scheduling the installation
    Agree on a convenient date and time. Confirm any specific preparations you need to do beforehand (e.g., clearing access).

  4. Day of the works
    The electrician arrives with approved materials, begins work by installing or upgrading circuits, running cables, fitting suitable outlets, and mounting the bathroom TV or casing.

  5. Testing and certification
    The electrician tests all electrical circuits and appliances, ensuring compliance with building regulations. They issue any necessary certification or a Part P compliance certificate.

  6. Job completion and advice
    The electrician explains how to operate any isolators or switches safely and advises on maintenance and care for your bathroom TV setup.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Electricians typically charge between £40 and £70 per hour, depending on location and experience.
  • Materials/parts: Waterproof TV enclosures or purpose-built bathroom TVs can cost from £150 upwards; wiring, switches, fused spurs, mounting brackets may add another £50–£150.
  • Extras: Wall reinforcement or tiling repairs, if required, can increase costs.
  • Disposal: Minimal, unless old TVs or electrical components need removal.
  • Certification: Electrical safety certification or Part P compliance certificates may cost around £50–£100 depending on the electrician.

Example itemisation for a straightforward install:

  • Labour (4 hours): £200
  • Materials: Cable, fused spur, mounting bracket: £120
  • Waterproof enclosure or TV: £200 (customer supplied or electrician can advise)
  • Certificate: £75
    Total: approx. £595

📊 What affects the price

  • Access to existing wiring and rear of walls
  • Complexity of the electrical circuit needed (new circuit vs. tapping in)
  • Compliance with Part P Building Regulations
  • Whether the installation requires extra wall work (e.g., chasing or boxing cables)
  • Need for waterproof TV housing versus specialised bathroom TV
  • Location within the UK (London and South East tend to be more expensive)
  • Urgency or non-standard working hours

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple replacement or direct swap of an existing bathroom-safe TV: 1–2 hours
  • Standard bathroom TV installation with new circuit and waterproof enclosure: 3–5 hours
  • Complex installs involving new wiring, wall modifications or multiple TVs: up to 1–2 days

Most basic installs can be done within a half to full working day.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Bathroom TV installation involves working with electrical wiring in wet environments, which poses serious safety risks. Under the UK’s Part P Building Regulations, all new or altered electrical installations in bathrooms must be done by a qualified electrician who can self-certify or notify local building control.

Common risks for DIY attempts include:

  • Electric shock or fire risk from incorrect wiring or insufficient IP ratings
  • Water damage to electrical components
  • Voiding insurance due to non-compliant electrical work
  • Removal of warranty on branded bathroom TVs if installed incorrectly

Due to these factors, it is strongly recommended you hire a professional electrician with bathroom-install experience rather than attempt it yourself.

💰 Typical UK price range

A typical bathroom TV installation in the UK can range roughly from £400 to £900, depending on complexity. This includes labour, materials, and certification costs. VAT at 20% is usually applicable to these services.

This estimate assumes installation of a mid-range waterproof enclosure or purpose-built bathroom TV, plus necessary electrical work. Premium TVs or extensive rewiring will increase the price.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Confirm your electrician is Part P registered and experienced with bathroom electrical work.
  • Discuss the exact TV model or enclosure you want to install — certain products are better suited for wet rooms.
  • Clear access to wall space and power sockets before the electrician arrives.
  • If you plan to supply the TV, inform the electrician so cable and bracket specs can be matched.
  • Keep all receipts, certification paperwork and user manuals for warranty and future reference.
  • Regularly inspect the bathroom TV and surrounding area for moisture ingress and call your electrician if you see any issues.
  • Consider insurance implications — inform your home insurer about the new electrical installation.

By following these tips and using a qualified professional, you can enjoy your bathroom TV safely and confidently for years to come.