Bath Tap Replacement – What to Expect
Bath taps take a lot of daily use. If your taps are dripping, stiff to turn, leaking around the base or simply worn out, replacing them is usually the most practical solution. Repairing internal components is sometimes an option, but when taps are old or tired, fitting new ones is the better long-term answer.
Most bath tap replacements can be completed during a single visit. This guide explains what you can expect when you book a Bath Tap Replacement with EPM.
Before Your Appointment
To help us prepare, it is helpful if you can:
Send us a photograph of the bathroom before we arrive, so we can see the access and bath panel situation ahead of the appointment.
Let us know whether you are supplying your own taps or would like us to source them.
Ensure there is clear access to the bath before the engineer arrives. If a bath panel needs to be removed, please let us know whether it can be lifted easily.
If there are any parking restrictions or access instructions at your property, please let us know before the appointment.
What Happens During the Visit?
When the engineer arrives, they will inspect the existing taps and pipework connections before work begins.
Where isolation valves are fitted and working correctly, only the bath supply will need to be isolated. If isolation valves are not fitted or are not working, the mains water supply will need to be turned off while the taps are replaced. Where isolation valves are absent, we will fit them where possible as part of the job.
The existing taps will be removed and the new taps fitted. Where the pipework and fittings are in good condition, the new taps will be connected using the existing supply pipes. Once fitted, the taps will be tested to confirm there are no leaks and that both hot and cold supplies are working correctly. The work area will be left clean and tidy before the engineer leaves.
How Long Does It Usually Take?
A straightforward bath tap replacement is typically completed in around 1 to 1½ hours.
If access is tight, for example where there is restricted space around the bath or a bath panel needs removing, the appointment is usually around 2 hours.
Things That Could Affect the Job
Bath tap replacements are generally straightforward, but access and the condition of existing pipework can affect the time needed. Occasionally we may find:
The space around the bath is restricted, for example where a toilet or wall limits working room, making the job more time consuming.
The bath panel is fixed or difficult to remove, slowing access to the pipework connections.
The existing isolating valves are seized or have not been fitted, requiring the water supply to be isolated at the mains.
The flexible hoses or fittings are corroded and need replacing.
The existing pipework requires minor adjustment before the new taps can be fitted.
The tap holes in the bath do not suit the new taps.
Minor adjustments, such as replacing corroded flexi hoses or fittings, are carried out as part of the job. We will let you know what was needed before we leave. If anything more significant comes to light, we will flag it with you before proceeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I supply my own taps?
Yes. We are happy to fit taps you have already purchased. Please let us know when booking so we can confirm they are suitable for your bath.
Will you need to turn off the water?
Where isolation valves are fitted and working correctly, only the bath supply will need to be isolated and your water elsewhere in the property will not be affected. If isolation valves are not fitted or not working, the mains supply will need to be turned off while the taps are replaced.
Can you replace just one tap?
In most cases we would recommend replacing both taps at the same time. Mixing old and new taps can result in uneven flow or pressure, and the remaining tap is likely to need replacing before long anyway.
Will you use the existing pipework?
Where it is in good condition, yes. Any minor adjustments or replacements will be carried out as part of the job.
Will you check for leaks before leaving?
Yes. We will test both taps fully and confirm there are no leaks before the engineer leaves.
Key Points
Typical appointment: Around 1 to 1½ hours for a straightforward replacement. Around 2 hours where access is restricted or the bath panel needs removing.
Engineer required: One plumbing engineer.
Typical visits: One visit for most replacements.
Materials: New bath taps, supplied by EPM or provided by you. Flexi hoses, fittings and isolation valves replaced or fitted where required.
Property disruption: Where isolation valves are fitted and working, only the bath supply will be isolated. Where isolation valves are not fitted or are not working, the mains water supply will need to be turned off during the replacement.
Access required: Clear access to the bath and, where applicable, the bath panel before the engineer arrives.
