Cost to supply and fit 4 radiators and 11 thermostatic valves

busymumof3

We are looking to replace 4 radiators which are awkwardly sized. At the same time we thought we may as well replace the thermostatic valves on the other 7 radiators which have seen better days. I have already purchased the valves. All radiators would be sited in the same place, just be a bit smaller. There is very little space under the floor so hatches would be cut in the floor.

I had a plumber round today and he has quoted me £860 for this which appears excessive as he has said it will take one day with his apprentice. I asked what proportion of this would be radiator costs and he said more than £400. I told him I knew I could purchase the radiators a lot cheaper than this - 1 double 700 x 900mm
1 double 700 x 400mm
2 single 400 x 1400mm

He said he wasn't interested in only fitting as he makes money on the supply. In our last house I had 8 double radiators replaced and one new one fitted by Scottish Gas for £1500 who replaced all pipework at that time. I would have expected an independent tradesman working on a Saturday to be a bit more competitive than this. Does anyone have any views?

Tom_Jones

Why don't you buy the rads yourself and look in the back of the local paper for another plumber. I would say fitting should be around £250 - £300.

busymumof3

Thanks Tom_Jones

That is now my plan. I am currently looking at radiator sites. I find it amazing that he actually put his hands up to making 100% markup on the radiators. Doesn't sound as if he has been introduced to the wonderful world of online shopping! He said that if a customer supplied then his hourly rate would just increase!!

That was my gut feeling about the labour too 8 hours at up to £25-£30 an hour plus VAT sounded reasonable to me.

raymond

Dont forget that at least one major online retailer of radiators sell crappy ones but they are cheap

never_enough

raymond wrote:

Dont forget that at least one major online retailer of radiators sell crappy ones but they are cheap

Do we have to guess which one?

busymumof3

Thanks Guys

I'm looking at Myson or Stelrad, the compact style with the top and side panels. I have priced both much cheaper than than the plumber was quoting. He said he would fit stelrad or Delongie.

Do you rate the Myson, Stelrad or Delongie. Are any better than the others? Got another plumber coming round tomorrow so will tell him it is for fitting only.