Fixington

Replace a toilet

Trade: Plumber

⭐ Introduction

Replacing a toilet is a common home improvement or repair task that helps maintain bathroom hygiene and functionality. You might consider replacing your toilet if it’s leaking, damaged, inefficient, or simply outdated. Sometimes a replacement is needed due to wear and tear, new bathroom designs, or to improve water efficiency with modern, low-flush models.

A properly installed toilet ensures no leaks, good flush performance, and compliance with UK plumbing standards. This job usually requires a plumber because working with water supply and drainage involves specific connections and fittings.

🔧 What the job involves

Replacing a toilet primarily means removing the old unit and installing a new one in the same spot or, occasionally, relocating the toilet.

The plumber will:

  • Turn off the water supply and drain the toilet cistern
  • Disconnect the water inlet and waste pipe from the existing toilet
  • Remove the old toilet bowl and cistern carefully
  • Inspect and possibly replace the toilet’s waste flange and sealing components
  • Fit the new toilet, connecting it to the water supply and waste pipe
  • Secure the toilet to the floor, ensuring it’s level and stable
  • Test for leaks and proper flushing operation
  • Clean up the workspace

Depending on the plumbing layout and bathroom floor, there might be additional steps such as adjusting pipework or floor repairs. Toilets must be fitted so they waste no more water than necessary, ideally meeting the requirements of Building Regulations Part G (protection from water waste).

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Enquiry – Contact a Gas Safe-registered plumber or general plumber experienced in bathroom fittings. Ask about their availability and preliminary pricing.

  2. Survey and quote – The plumber visits your home to inspect the existing toilet, water supply, and waste pipe. They confirm it’s suitable for replacement or identify any additional work required. You then receive a written quote.

  3. Agree date and sign off – Arrange a convenient day for the work. Confirm costs, scope, and any warranty or guarantees.

  4. Day of works – The plumber arrives, turns off the water, removes the old toilet, installs the new one, tests everything, and tidies up.

  5. Wrap-up and payment – You inspect the work, ask any questions, and settle the payment (usually via card or bank transfer). Keep the invoice for records.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: £100–£200 for a straightforward replacement (including removal and fitting)
  • Toilet unit: £70–£300+, depending on model and flushing system
  • Parts and consumables: waste flange, seal, fixing bolts, pipe connectors (£10–£30)
  • Disposal: some plumbers include it; others charge up to £20 to remove the old toilet
  • Certification: usually no formal certificate needed unless linked with major plumbing alterations
  • Additional works: pipe repairs, floor repairs, relocating plumbing (can significantly increase costs)

For example, a basic replacement:
Labour £150 + Toilet £150 + Parts £20 + Disposal £15 = approx. £335

📊 What affects the price

  • Accessibility of the toilet (tight spaces may require more time)
  • Complexity of plumbing connections (corroded fittings or non-standard pipes)
  • Whether pipework or floor repairs are needed
  • If the toilet is being relocated, adding new pipe runs
  • Local labour rates (London and South East tend to be higher)
  • Urgency or short-notice bookings
  • Compliance with Building Regulations if other plumbing alterations are involved

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple replacement (“like for like”): around 1 to 2 hours
  • Replacement with minor pipework repairs: 2 to 4 hours
  • Relocating toilet or extensive plumbing: may take a full day or longer, especially if tiling or floorwork is required afterwards

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Replacing a toilet might be tempting for a handy homeowner, but plumbing skills and experience are important. You’ll need to:

  • Turn off water supply
  • Disconnect plumbing without causing leaks or damage
  • Ensure a proper seal to the waste pipe (preventing smells and leaks)
  • Avoid damaging the soil pipe or floor

Incorrect installation can lead to costly leaks and water damage, so hiring a qualified plumber is recommended unless you have good plumbing experience.

There are no specific UK regulations preventing DIY toilet installation, but failure to comply with Building Regulations or improper sealing can cause bigger problems.

💰 Typical UK price range

A typical toilet replacement costs between £250 and £450 including VAT. This estimate covers labour, materials, and disposal for a straightforward swap in most homes. More complex jobs can cost significantly more.

Always check if the quote includes VAT (at 20%), and ensure you receive a written quotation before work starts.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Clear the bathroom and ensure easy access around the toilet
  • Check if the existing toilet matches your replacement choice in terms of size and connection type
  • Ask the plumber about warranty on parts and workmanship
  • Arrange for someone to be home during the work or agree on access
  • Keep all paperwork, including the quote and final invoice, for future reference or possible warranty claims
  • After installation, avoid using harsh chemical cleaners in the first few days to protect seals and fittings
  • Periodically check the new toilet for leaks or unusual noises

Replacing your toilet is an investment in your home’s comfort and hygiene. With the right preparation and a trusted professional, it can be a smooth and stress-free process.