Bath Installation Cost

Would you like to discover the average cost to install a bathtub?

In this guide, we look at bathtub installation costs for a range of different baths, including walk-in baths, shower bathtubs and freestanding baths.

On average, installation of a new bath will typically be around £700.

We also cover the cost of old bathtub removal and the cost of a bathroom fitter, so you can see how much you should expect to pay in labour.

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How Much to Fit a Bath?

The average price to have a bath installed is £700. This covers the removal of the old bath and the supply and installation of the new bath. For this price, you can get a steel or acrylic standard, double-ended, corner, or shower over bath.

You can also choose from other types and materials, although this will increase the price of materials. Likewise, the overall cost can be impacted if the time needed to complete the job increases from a few hours to taking all day, especially if any plumbing work needs adjusting or floors and walls need repairing at the same time.

At the most expensive end, you can choose a bath made from natural stone or cast iron materials. These tubs are expensive to buy, and also more expensive to fit, but they do create a wow-factor in a room. The cost for these tubs will range from £1,800 to £11,500.

Other options that can increase the cost are whirlpool baths. These range from £950 to £3,500. You will also have to pay a premium for a walk-in bathtub, with prices starting from around £3,300. However, this can potentially reach in excess of £9,000 if any structual work is required to accommodate the bath and any design features.

New Bath Prices

The cost to supply and fit a bath will depend on a combination of the material the bath is made from and the type of bath you choose.

The following table will give you an idea of the price you can expect to pay for the supply, fitting, and removal of your old bath.

These prices assume that the new bath fits the same way as the old one, so there is no need to move any pipework.

Supply Costs Only

The cost of your bath will vary based on the type of bath you choose and the material you get it in. The following tables will give you the average prices for standard size baths.

Type of Bath

For ease of comparison, these prices are all for standard size acrylic tubs.

Material

For ease of comparison, these are the prices for standard size tubs.

Additional Materials

If you are getting a standard, built-in bath, you will also need bath panels. The number you need will depend on how your bath is fitted.

Additional Bath Installation Costs

It can often be cheaper to combine the installation of a bath with any other work you need to do in your bathroom. Some other jobs you might want to consider getting done simultaneously are given here.

Shower

While you have a plumber installing a new bath, you could also have a new shower fitted. Rather than the additional work of a separate shower unit, an over-bath shower is a common alternative. The average cost of installing a power shower is around £550, although this doesn't include if any additional waterproofing or tile work is required.

Bathroom Tiling

Tiling a bathroom can be a big job. When you take out your old bath, it is not unusual for some of the tiles surrounding it to break. This can mean that it is a good idea to get new tiles at the same time.

The cost of tiling will depend on how many tiles you get. Re-tiling a whole bathroom costs around £820.

Bath Taps

Most standard bathtubs come undrilled, so new taps are not typically included in bathtub installation costs. This allows you to choose the taps you want, and you can choose to have a single mixer tap or two separate hot and cold taps. The design of the bath you choose may limit your options.

Bath Panels

If you are having a standard, built-in bath installed, you will also need bath panels. A front panel typically costs £45 to £125, while an end panel costs £25 to £60.

Shower Screen

If your bath doubles as a shower bath, you will need a shower screen or curtain to keep water contained. Costs for shower screens can vary depending on size and style.

Labour Cost to Install a Bath & Timescales

When planning your budget for your new bath, remember to include the bath fitter cost. If you are getting your whole bathroom done, then this will only be a small part of the bathroom fitting cost.

Removing an old bath and installing a new one is a straightforward task. If there are no complications, the whole job can usually be done in 2 to 4 hours.

You should expect to pay £280 to £390 for this, which will include the removal and disposal of your old bath.

There are some situations where the installation costs will be higher.

Spa bath will require work with electrics, so will start at around £500. Walk-in baths also require specialist installation and will have a similar cost.

Especially heavy baths will require two people to install them, so it will cost £80 to £160 more.

If you need any pipes moving, you must pay for your plumber's time to complete this. You should expect to pay around £75 per hour for this.

FYI - An inset or recessed bath can be significantly more expensive than a regular bath, unless you're simply replacing an existing one. This is because additional work may be needed to create or adjust the area where it's to be positioned, and the costs can vary depending on what's required.

Factors That Impact Bath Installation Costs

Installing a bath is a relatively simple process. If it is not part of a larger project, the costs will be mostly dependent on the type of bath you choose. Most baths cost a fixed amount to fit, as it is a simple job for a trained plumber. There are a few factors that can cause the costs to be higher.

Weight of The Bath

If the bath you choose is made from an especially heavy material like stone or cast iron, then the installation costs will be higher. This is due to the fact that more than one person will be required to install this sort of bath.

You may also need to reinforce the floor to support the bath, which can also add to the final price.

Type of Bath

There is a very large difference in price between basic and standard options compared to more high-end choices. The most basic baths can be found for as little as £90. The average price of a bath is £350. Top-of-the-range and specialist baths can cost between £3,200 and £5,500.

Moving the Waste and Taps

If you need to move the location of the waste and water, then this will make the job take longer. The added cost will depend on how long the plumber will take to complete the work. You can expect to pay around £75 per hour.

Whirlpool/Spa Bath/Walk-in Baths

Installing any of these varieties is more complex than a standard bath, and therefore can take longer as they often require the help of a specialist. As a result, you expect to add at least an additional £120 to £230 to your labour fees, not to mention the price of the bath itself.

What's Involved in Installing a Bath?

The installation of most baths is fairly straightforward. However, as the job involves plumbing and, in some cases, electrics, it is always recommended to hire a professional bathroom fitter to ensure your bathtub installation is done correctly.

With MyJobQuote, you can request multiple quotes from local bathroom fitters near you. It's fast, free, and there is no obligation to go ahead.

We have outlined the installation steps for the most common types of baths:

Before the Job Starts

• Turn Off Water — The first thing you need to do is turn off your home's water at the stop cock.
• Remove the Old Bath — Start disconnecting the bath, removing the overflow, taps, and waste, then lift the old bath out.
• Build the Cradle — Construct the new bath's cradle – this is the stand that holds the bath up and keeps it steady – and screw it into the new bath.

During the Job

• Fit the Taps and Waste — Fit the taps to the bath, then attach the waste. You will need to use some silicone to secure the washer in place before you attach the overflow with a screw.
• Position and Fix — Place the bath at the correct height and position, then fix it to the wall and floor using screws and a spirit level. For a freestanding bath, once connected to the existing plumbing, you are all done.
• Connect and Test — Attach the bath trap and drainage pipe, connect the taps, then turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. Whirlpool baths require an electrical access point fitted by a registered electrician to comply with building regulations before the pump can be tested.

After the Job

• Fit the Bath Panels — Fix the batons to the ground running along the open edges of the bath. These are used to attach the bath panels.
• Seal the Edges — Seal the edges of the bath using silicone to create a watertight seal to stop water from running down the wall and getting underneath the bath. To apply the sealant, you should first fill the bath – this stops the sealant from pulling away from the wall once it is set.

Types of Bath

When you are choosing the type of bath you want, there are two main decisions to make.

The first is the style of bath. You can broadly think about this as being a mix of the shape and features of the bath.

The second choice is the material that the bath is made from.

Design

The design of the bath you choose is most likely limited by the space you have available. Once you know which options you can choose from, you need to consider if any features are important to you, such as jets or accessibility.

Standard/Built-In Bath Cost

A standard tub will be flush against the wall on at least two sides, or as many as three. The sides not against the walls will be covered with bath panels. The taps and drain are at one end of the tub, and the opposite side of the tub is slanted for comfort. The price range for these tubs is £170 to £340.

Pros

• ✔ Plumbing is hidden
• ✔ Often the cheapest option
• ✔ The edge of the tub can be used for storage

Cons

• ✖ Fewer placement options
• ✖ Less choice in style

Corner Bath Cost

As the name suggests, corner baths are designed to fit into the corner of the room. They are an excellent choice when space is limited. They come in two options: a standard triangular tub or an offset tub with more space on one side of the taps. The price range for these tubs is £390 to £560.

Pros

• ✔ Can fit small spaces
• ✔ Lots of styles to choose from

Cons

• ✖ Standard options have less space inside

Freestanding/Rolltop Bath Cost

Freestanding baths do not have to be in the corner of your bathroom. They can be used as a centrepiece for the room. They are often viewed as a luxurious option. The price range for these tubs is £820 to £1,150.

Pros

• ✔ Wow-factor
• ✔ Easier to clean and maintain
• ✔ Easy installation

Cons

• ✖ More expensive
• ✖ Often only in larger sizes

Shower Over Bath Cost

These are tubs that double up as a shower. They often come in a P-shape, offering more space at the end with the shower. The price range for these tubs is £490 to £660.

Pros

• ✔ Space-saving option
• ✔ Allows both a shower and bath option

Cons

• ✖ Needs a shower panel or curtain
• ✖ Can be more difficult to install

Whirlpool/Spa Bath Cost

These baths have jets built-in - you can even get built-in lights for ambience. The price range for these tubs is £800 to £1,200.

Pros

• ✔ Jets
• ✔ Luxurious bath experience

Cons

• ✖ More expensive to install, as you may need an electrician

Walk-in Bath Costs

These are baths that have a watertight door, which allows you to walk in and out of the bath. This is a good option if you want a bath but can't safely get in and out of one. Walk-in bath prices range between £2,700 and £4,400.

Pros

• ✔ Easy access
• ✔ Can have a deeper bath

Cons

• ✖ Have to wait while the bath fills and drains
• ✖ More expensive

Inset/Recessed Bath Cost

These are tubs that are mostly hidden with only the rim on show. They can either be sunk into the floor or built into a pedestal that houses them. They have the feel of a swimming pool. The price range for these tubs is £170 to £260.

Pros

• ✔ Hidden plumbing
• ✔ Tubs are shallower, so cost less

Cons

• ✖ Installation can be more expensive
• ✖ Can't easily change to another style of bath

Double Ended Bath Cost

These are baths that have the taps and drain located on the longer side of the bath. This allows for both of the short sides of the bath to be angled for comfortable sitting. In larger models, you can fit two people at the same time. The price range for these tubs is £230 to £500.

Pros

• ✔ More sitting options
• ✔ Space for two people

Cons

• ✖ May be limited due to the location of pipes in the room

Material

The material that the bath is made from will change the look and feel of the bath. Different materials will hold heat differently and will feel different against your skin.

Cast Iron Bath Cost

Cast iron tubs have been around since the 1800s. They most often have an enamel surface bonded to the iron. They were common in older homes but are now more of a specialist item. The price range for these tubs is £1,300 to £2,400.

Pros

• ✔ Wow-factor
• ✔ Retains heat well
• ✔ Low maintenance

Cons

• ✖ Very heavy, and more expensive to install
• ✖ Expensive up-front costs

Copper/Brass Bath Cost

Both copper and brass baths are very similar in look and features. These are pure metal baths, and they have a very classic look. They are a design choice for those wanting a decadent and statement bathroom. The price range for these tubs is £2,200 to £4,400.

Pros

• ✔ Antibacterial
• ✔ Durable
• ✔ Environmentally-friendly

Cons

• ✖ Expensive
• ✖ Requires special cleaning products

Stone Bath Cost

Stone baths can be made from a range of materials, so there are a lot of options to consider. They are a natural material, so they are more expensive, but they are beautiful to look at. The price range for these tubs is £5,400 to £7,600.

Pros

• ✔ Durable and long-lasting
• ✔ Comfortable

Cons

• ✖ Heavy, and more expensive to install
• ✖ Requires reinforced flooring due to the weight

Acrylic Bath Cost

The price range for these tubs is £170 to £230.

Pros

• ✔ Wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colours
• ✔ Good heat retention

Cons

• ✖ Easily scratched
• ✖ Can be overly flexible and feel insecure

Steel Bathtub Cost

These tubs are a strong and durable option. They are made from galvanised steel, so they are hygienic and easy to clean. The price range for these tubs is £330 to £500.

Pros

• ✔ Strong and durable material
• ✔ Retains heat to maintain it's temperature
• ✔ Hygienic, and easy to clean

Cons

• ✖ Heavy, and more expensive to install

What Size Bath?

The space you have in your bathroom will be a large factor in determining the size of the bath that you choose. The bath can fit flush to three walls, so it is quite easy to find a space to fit a tub in most bathrooms. You just need enough space to the side of the bath for climbing in and out of the tub – 1m should be plenty of space.

A good option for a small bathroom is a corner tub. These can fit well into small spaces.

When measuring the space for your bath, don't forget that tiles have thickness. This means if you measure between tiled surfaces, you will actually have a little more space for the bath than it appears.

Standard bathtubs in the UK are typically between 500 and 550mm high, although there are some variations (for example low-level baths for easy access or luxury freestanding bathtubs). The table below provides some average costs based on length and width.

Cost of Removing Bath

If you want to replace your existing bath with a new one, most plumbers will include the cost of this in the bathtub installation cost.

If you are not replacing your bath, simply having it removed is quite a quick and easy job that should take no more than an hour. You will likely pay the minimum charge for the time of the labourer you use.

The cost will depend on your location, but you should expect to pay £60 to £90. It is much more cost-effective to have this work done as part of other work, such as fitting the new items in the bathroom.

Checklist: Hiring a Bathroom Fitter for your Bath Installation

Getting a bath fitted is a specialist job. There are plenty of things that can go wrong, especially if you are installing a bath with electric pumps for the jets. Finding the right installer can make a big difference in how well the bathtub installation is completed.

Here are a few key things to look for when you are looking for a bathroom fitter.

• Are they a member of a recognised trade body? Look for a bathroom fitter who is part of the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installers (BiKBBI) or the Kitchen, Bathroom, Bedroom Specialists Association (KBSA).
• Are they WaterSafe approved? WaterSafe is the UK's national register of approved plumbers. Hiring a WaterSafe-approved plumber means their work meets Water Regulations.
• Do they have insurance? Public liability insurance protects you in case something goes wrong during your bathtub installation.
• Will they provide an itemised quote? Ask for a breakdown of your bathtub installation costs so that you know what is included and whether there are any additional costs.
• Are they experienced in bathtub installations? Find out how long they have been fitting baths and whether they have experience with your specific bath type, particularly if you are installing a whirlpool or free standing bath.
• Do they have examples of similar work? Ask to see photos of previous bathtub installations, or check their MyJobQuote profile for examples of comparable work.
• Do they have positive reviews? Check their MyJobQuote profile to read the feedback they have received from previous bathtub installation customers.