If your outside tap has started dripping, has been damaged by frost or has simply reached the end of its life, replacing it is usually a quick and straightforward job. In most cases, the replacement can be completed during a single visit with minimal disruption. This guide explains what you can expect when you book an outside tap replacement with EPM.

Before Your Appointment

There's very little you need to do before we arrive. If you know where the isolation valve or internal stop tap is located, that's always helpful, but don't worry if you don't – our engineer will locate it if required. If there are any parking restrictions or access instructions, please let us know when booking so we can plan ahead.

What Happens During the Visit?

When your engineer arrives, they'll first inspect the existing outside tap and the surrounding pipework to confirm that a replacement is the most suitable solution. Most outside taps have their own isolation valve, allowing the tap to be replaced without interrupting the water supply to the rest of your property. Where this isn't possible, the main water supply may need to be isolated for a short period while the work is carried out. Once the old tap has been removed, the new tap will be installed, checked for leaks and tested to ensure it's operating correctly. Before leaving, the engineer will make sure the work area is left clean and tidy and answer any questions you may have.

How Long Does It Usually Take?

A straightforward outside tap replacement typically takes around one hour to complete. The exact time can vary depending on the condition of the existing installation and how easily the pipework can be isolated.

Things That Could Affect the Job

While most outside tap replacements are straightforward, every property is different. Occasionally we may find:

• There isn't a suitable isolation valve fitted.

• Existing pipework is damaged or heavily corroded.

• The tap or fittings have seized over time.

• Access to the pipework is more restricted than expected.

Minor adjustments are often part of the job and can usually be completed during the visit. If we discover anything that significantly changes the scope of work, we'll explain the available options before carrying out any additional work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my water be turned off? Usually not. Most outside taps have their own isolation valve, meaning the replacement can often be completed without interrupting the water supply to the rest of the property. If this isn't possible, the main water supply may need to be turned off for a short time. How long will the replacement take? Most replacements are completed in around one hour. Will you test the new tap? Yes. Before we leave, we'll test the new installation and check that everything is working correctly. Will you tidy up afterwards? Yes. Our engineers always aim to leave the work area clean and tidy once the job has been completed.

Key Points

Typical appointment: Around 1 hour Engineer required: One plumber

Typical visits required: Usually one visit

Materials: Usually completed using materials carried on our engineers' vans.

Property disruption: Water will often remain on throughout the replacement. If the main supply needs to be isolated, this is usually only for a short period.

Access required: Access to the outside tap and, if required, the internal stop tap.

Things that could affect the appointment: Restricted access, damaged pipework, seized fittings or the absence of a suitable isolation valve.