With bathroom suites getting cheaper all the time more and more people are choosing their own, getting them delivered and then arranging the installation separately.
This is great news for plumbers and customers alike. We prefer it as it saves time and keeps our turnover costs low, customers like it as large DIY stores and the internet often offer discounts comparable to those plumbers can get at trade stores and you can choose the exact suite you want from a huge range. However there are a few pitfalls to look out for if you intend to do this.
Ideally you should speak to a plumber prior to ordering because not all suites will be suitable for all installations. At Norton Plumbing we are happy to come out to help measure up and offer advice on which options may be more or less appropriate free of charge.
Beware of lengthy delivery times. Many direct to customer retailers take 6 or more weeks to deliver some suites; in contrast a plumbers merchants can often deliver a suite in 24-48 hours.
Try and find out as much as you can about the quality. Not all suites are equal, they may look very expensive and elegant on the outside but it’s the bits that are hidden away which will ensure its longevity. Many suites available via the internet and large retailers do not meet British water regulations as it is the responsibility of the installer not to fit them rather than the vendors not to sell them. Therefore wherever possible choose WRAS approved products, this is an assurance that you are buying quality.
If you are working to a budget try to avoid moving the bathroom furniture around, Baths and wash basins can normally be repositioned reasonably easily but moving a toilet can turn into quite a large job that will add extra cost to the installation.
Finally if the plumber isn’t present when the delivery arrives ensure that ALL the parts are delivered with the suite. Some companies are notorious for missing small but vital bits and it can be incredibly frustrating for both the plumber and the customer if on the day of installation it has to be postponed because something is missing. It can often take a long time to get the missing item(s) sent and you may have to wait until your plumber has space to fit you back into their diary.
