How Much Does a Walk-in Bath Cost?

How Much is a Walk-In Bath?

A walk-in bath is a unique bathtub that allows users to walk-in via a door before shutting the door to make it watertight, enabling the user to have a bath without the requirement of stepping into it over the edge.

This design makes it far more accessible to people with mobility issues, the elderly and those who may struggle to use a standard bathtub.

The cost of a walk-in bath will vary depending on a number of factors, which will be covered throughout this guide. But first, let's look at the typical cost of a walk-in bath.

The cheapest walk-in baths will typically cost between £2,700 and £3,000 including installation and labour fees.

Walk-In Bath Installation Costs

The table below shows how much different types and sizes of walk-in baths cost in the UK. These prices include materials and labour.

Walk-In Bath Extra Feature Prices

As well as differences in quality, brand, and material, due to the likely users of a walk-in bath, there is a wide range of additional features that can be installed with the walk-in bath.

For example, things like handrails and anti-slip flooring are usually essential, along with a multitude of seating options from motorised seats to manual lifting seats.

At the higher end of the price scale, a luxury walk-in bath, complete with chromotherapy lights, motorised seats, and safety equipment, could cost between £9,950 and £10,450 to purchase and have installed.

The table below shows how much some common extra features cost to install with a walk-in bath.

Walk-In Bath Prices: Supply Only

The large bulk of the cost of installing a walk-in bath lies with the purchase of the bath itself.

As you can see from the table above, the more features that you opt for with your bath, the more expensive the bath will be. For example, a 1700mm x 750mm bath with chromotherapy lights and a motorised seat would cost, on average, around £4,600 without installation.

There are also additional supply costs to consider, as well as the features mentioned above.

Firstly, you will need to ensure that you have the bath itself, but each bath will have specific installation directions, meaning you will need to ensure the seals and fixtures match the bath that you are going to install. This can cost anywhere from £25 to £100.

From here, consider which features are essential to you. For example, some people who suffer from arthritis and require a walk-in bath will also incorporate a massaging whirlpool feature into their bath.

While certainly not inexpensive, it can prove to be very beneficial over the long term for comfort and pain relief. If you struggle with mobility in your legs, it may be incredibly worthwhile to invest in a motorised seat to make getting in and out of the bath easier. With a walk-in bath, the benefits usually far outweigh the additional investment.

Walk-In Bath Labour Costs & Timescales

Labour Costs

You will need a bathroom fitter to install your walk-in bath, with the average cost for installation being around £1,000.

Labour costs are based on how long the job will take, and as such, more complex bath designs are likely to cost more. Additionally, any preparation work required beforehand should also be factored into the overall costs of your new walk-in bath.

As an example, a simple walk-in bath installation may only cost around £500, but labour can potentially reach in the region of £1,500 depending on the extent of the job. Extra features such as motorised seats and chromotherapy lights will also add time to the installation process.

Timescale

Most walk-in baths can be installed within 1 to 3 days, but this can depend on a number of factors.

The majority of the job is usually completed within the first two days. This includes removing the old bath and adjusting any plumbing before installation can start properly. From here, everything will be put into place, the new bath will be installed, and the plumbing connected and fully tested.

If additional features or finishing touches are required, this may extend into a third day. More complicated walk-in bath installations or bespoke fittings can potentially take longer, depending on the amount of work involved.

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What's Involved in Installing a Walk-In Bath?

While you could potentially fit a walk-in bath yourself if you were proficient at plumbing and electrics, most users choose to hire a specialist fitter for their walk-in bath installation.

It’s also a good idea to get several quotes from different fitters to find the best contractor for your project and budget.

MyJobQuote makes it easy to get fast, free, no-obligation quotes from local bathroom fitters and plumbers who specialise in walk-in bath installations.

Once you’ve found the right contractor for your project, here’s an overview of the process of getting a walk-in bath installed:

Before the Job Starts

• Home Survey and Measurements — Your contractor will measure your bathroom to agree the layout, make sure your walk-in bath fits, and assess access for carrying out the work.
• Plumbing and Electrics Check — They will check the plumbing and electrics to make sure they're all suitable and identify any updates or changes that need to be made.
• Quote and Options — Your fitter will provide you with a finalised quote for the cost of completing your walk-in bath project to the agreed specification.
• Preparation and Scheduling — Once you agree to go ahead, the materials will be ordered, and your fitter will schedule your installation and start planning your project.

During the Job

• Removal and Disposal — Your contractor will remove your old bath or shower and any old plumbing, the space is checked, and any issues addressed, before it is prepared for your new bath.
• Services Setup — The new water feeds and waste pipes are installed, and any necessary electrical work is completed by a qualified electrician.
• Fitting the Walk-In Bath — The new walk-in bath is installed, levelled, connected to the water feeds and waste pipes, and all the fittings and seals are installed to the correct specification.
• Sealing and Finishing — The area around the bath is made good and finished with any tiling and waterproof sealant, and any panels, trims, and accessories are fitted.

After the Job

• Testing and Handover — The fitter fills and empties the bath to make sure there are no leaks and the door works properly, before demonstrating the operation and safety features of your new walk-in bath.
• Certification — You will be provided with all the appropriate paperwork, including any necessary certificates and product or installation guarantees.
• Clean-Up — Finally, they will clear away any packaging and debris before making sure the area is clean and ready for use.
• Aftercare — You will be left with any instructions or guidance on the ongoing maintenance and care of your new bath, and what to do if you have any issues.

UK Grants and Tax Relief for Installing a Walk-in Bath

Within the UK if you are eligible it is possible to get government-backed support on the cost of installing a walk-in bath. Below we take a look at the options available, if you are unsure whether or not you qualify, you can check with HMRC, your local council or ask Citizens Advise for more information.

• 0% VAT Relief - If a walk-in bath installation is required to help someone with disability needs or suffering from a chronic illness, then the supply and installation can be zero-rated for VAT. This can be applied via your supplier or bathroom fitter, although a declaration of eligibility is required as confirmation.
• Reduced 5% VAT for homeowners - If you are 60 years old or over, you may qualify for a reduced VAT rate on walk-in baths and other mobility aids for the bathroom and elsewhere around the home, even if you're not classed as unfit or disabled.
• Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG): Some local councils provide grants to help cover the cost of adapting homes to help those with disabilities with independent living. Grants are issued following an occupational therapy assessment, and can cover a range adaptations including providing an accessible bathroom (walk-in bath installation, widening doors, lowering sinks and adding hand rails etc).

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Additional Walk-In Bath Installation Costs

There may be some additional costs to consider outside of the supply and installation costs, primarily relating to preparing the bathroom for a walk-in bath.

Plumbing Upgrades

Your plumbing will need to be in good working condition to have a walk-in bath installed. There are also some upgrades that could make the walk-in bath easier to use and safer.

Here are some examples of plumbing improvements you may need or choose to have:

• Re-routing existing bath drainage system.
• Pipework repositioning.
• Improvements to drainage capacity.
• Rapid drain technology within modern or renovated homes.
• Installing thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) for safety.

Your plumber will be able to advise whether any of these need to be added to your walk-in bath cost, but be aware that plumbing alterations can increase both material and labour costs.

Electrical Work

If you plan on incorporating things such as chromotherapy lights or motorised seats into your walk-in bath, you must ensure that the electricity network within your house can cope in compliance with electrical safety requirements related to the bathroom.

This could be anything from adding a few extra lights in strategic places to undertaking a complete rewire which costs around £4,000 on average.

Bathroom Extension

If your bathroom is not quite large enough for a walk-in bath, you may want to consider some alterations to your home.

This will drastically increase the overall cost of a walk-in bath, but if it is an investment for the long-term enjoyment of your home, it might be worth the outlay.

On average, the cost of building a bathroom extension is about £1,300 per square metre.

Aesthetic Improvements

You could also take the opportunity to make some visual improvements to your bathroom at the same time as installing a walk-in bath.

For example, the cost to tile a bathroom is around £750 or you could pay around £450 to install a new toilet.

Factors That Impact Walk-In Bath Costs

When purchasing and installing a walk-in bath, several cost factors come into play, from the initial price of the tub to installation and additional features. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:

Basic vs Luxury Models

Basic Models:

Standard walk-in baths typically start around £1,200 to £4,000. These models usually include a simple door, seat, and grab bars.

Luxury Models:

For hydrotherapy jets, air jets, and quick-drain systems, prices can increase to £2,000–£4,000 or more.

Installation Complexity

Basic Installation:

The installation alone can range from £550 to £2,500, depending on factors like the complexity of the plumbing and the type of walk-in bath.

Structural Modifications:

If modifications to the bathroom are required (e.g., widening doors, adding reinforcement, or updating flooring), costs can increase significantly, sometimes adding £800 to £4,000.

Electrical Work:

Walk-in baths with features like heated seats, air jets, or lights often require electrical wiring upgrades, which could add an additional £400 to £1,600.

Drain and Plumbing Adjustments

Rapid Drain Systems:

Adding a rapid drain system or upgrading plumbing for faster water flow may add £400 to £1,200.

New Plumbing Lines: Some homes may need new hot water lines or additional plumbing work if the bathroom is older, costing £400–£1,200 more.

Additional Features and Accessories

Therapy Features:

Add-ons like hydrotherapy jets, chromotherapy lights, aromatherapy, or heated surfaces can each add several hundred pounds to the base price.

Safety Features:

Anti-scald technology, grab bars, slip-resistant floors, and easy-to-reach controls may come at an additional cost but are often worth the investment for safety.

Quick-Fill Taps:

These can cost an extra £160 to £650 but can reduce wait times for filling the tub.

Types of Walk-In Baths

Soak Walk-In Bath Cost

Average cost: £2,000

These baths are basic walk-in baths that consist of a watertight door and are ideal for a relaxing soak without any additional features. Not only are they the cheapest models, but they are best for those who want a simple bath with easy access.

Pros

• ✔ Cheap
• ✔ Easy to Install

Cons

• ✖ No features
• ✖ Can look plain and boring

Hydrotherapy (Whirlpool) Walk-In Bath Cost

Average cost: £3,500

Hydrotherapy walk-in baths are equipped with strong jets to create a massaging effect for the user. This is primarily designed for muscle relief and circulation improvement, helping with ailments like arthritis and joint pain.

Pros

• ✔ Massaging effect
• ✔ Comfortable and relaxing

Cons

• ✖ More costly than others
• ✖ More complex installation

Air Jet Walk-In Bath Cost

Average cost: £3,500

Similar to hydrotherapy baths, air jet walk-in baths use soft air pressure to provide a much softer massage. This is ideal for those with ailments like fibromyalgia, as the firmer hydrotherapy baths may be too much for the condition.

Pros

• ✔ Massaging effect
• ✔ Comfortable and relaxing

Cons

• ✖ More costly than others
• ✖ More complex installation

Lay-Down Walk-In Bath Cost

Average cost: £2,500

These baths are longer, more like traditional baths, but still feature a walk-in door to allow the user to lie down. These are best for those who want the traditional experience without the access issues.

Pros

• ✔ Ability to lie down
• ✔ Look more traditional

Cons

• ✖ Take up more surface area
• ✖ Slightly more complex to install

Walk-In Shower/Bath Combos

Average cost: £3,000

These bath combos feature a walk-in bath combined with the addition of a shower, giving you a choice between the two. Not only is a shower often more convenient, but they can also prove cost-effective and potentially save you money when used effectively if you are using less water than a regular bath.

Pros

• ✔ Ability to take a bath or a shower
• ✔ Water savings

Cons

• ✖ Larger surface area
• ✖ More complex to install
• ✖ More expensive

Bariatric Baths

Average cost: £4,500

These baths are designed with a wider seat and a much more spacious interior to accommodate any larger users, whilst still providing a safe and comfortable experience.

Pros

• ✔ Larger space within the bath
• ✔ Accommodates more users

Cons

• ✖ Requires more surface area within the bathroom

Building Regulations and Walk-In Baths

There are no specific building regulations that apply directly to the installation of walk-in baths themselves. However, there are several relevant UK building regulations related to any plumbing, electrical work and safety requirements that need to be adhered to.

Plumbing work must meet Part G requirements in relation to sanitation, hot water safety and scald prevention, particularly in homes with elderly or vulnerable occupants. While not all work requires a registered installer, using a qualified and experienced contractor helps ensure the correct installation process and procedures are being followed.

Any electrical work for a walk-in bath (for example powered seats, pumps, or lighting), must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations and legally can only be carried out or signed-off by a qualified and registered electrician. If there are any emergency safety alarms, buzzers, pull cords or other systems in place, these must remain fully operational unless advised otherwise.

Alternative Types of Accessible Baths

There are some alternatives to walk-in baths that may be more suitable for you personally.

Walk-In Showers

Walk-in showers are much more common, and in fact, most homes will probably feature one anyway. Of course, for those with access or mobility issues, there are ways to make the walk-in shower much more convenient for the user.

For example, the installation of a shower seat can make this experience easier, as can handrails. These are fairly easily installed and obtained, and shouldn't be too costly either.

Bath Lifts

If you have a traditional bath and do not wish to change this to a walk-in bath, you can install a bath lift. Now, the price of a bath lift varies from around £200-£1,000 depending on the level of quality you opt for.

For example, a motorised bath lift may cost up to £1,000, while a simple semi-manual lift may cost as little as £250. There are many options across a range of different brands for you to choose from, and some even feature additional features like a reclining seat.

Wet Rooms

Installing a wet room will transform your entire bathroom into a large shower. This means that you can access it with ease, and once you've finished the room will then drain via a floor drain with sloped flooring to avoid pooling.

The key feature of this option is the extra space to allow wheelchairs, regular chairs and any other mobility assistance equipment within a modern and easy to clean space.

With fewer edges and seals than a traditional bath or shower, the build-up of dirt and mould is naturally kept to a minimum. However, with professional waterproofing and additional drainage, installing a wet room can become an expensive project.

Checklist: Hiring a Walk-In Bath Installer Near You

Consider the following points before hiring a professional to install your walk-in bath:

• Have you been provided with multiple quotes? Don’t settle for the first price you’re given. Reach out via MyJobQuote to at least three professionals in your area and request a quote in writing. This helps ensure you get a fair rate and can compare ideas for the project.
• Do they have reviews or testimonials? Check the online presence of each company and review their MyJobQuote profile for customer feedback. Positive reviews often include examples of past work, giving you a clearer sense of skills and reliability.
• Have you asked for personal recommendations? Referrals from friends, family, or neighbors who have had a similar project are invaluable. Seeing completed work firsthand is one of the best ways to assess an installer’s ability.
• Do they have the relevant qualifications? Ensure the installer has appropriate credentials for plumbing and any electrical work required for installing your walk-in bath. Qualified professionals reduce the risk of mistakes and ensure compliance with building regulations.
• Do they have public liability insurance? It may not be a legal requirement, but any reputable tradesperson should be insured. At minimum, this will include public liability insurance, covering against personal injury or accidental damage.
• Is waste removal included? By having an itemised breakdown of what’s included, you can ensure there aren’t any hidden extras or parts of the job you’re expected to complete yourself, such as waste removal.
• Will they handle any sign-off documentation? Ask if they can self-certify any work that needs to be officially signed-off, such as providing a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate or completing any electrical certifications.

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