Advice Needed: Cost to Install Bath Shower Mixer Tap

FonsoBoy123

Hi,

I wasn’t sure where to post this, so I hope it’s in the right place. I’m looking for advice on how much a plumber might charge to install a bath shower mixer tap.

I live in a housing association property, and our bath/shower mixer tap has broken. The lever that switches between bath and shower snapped off, and the tap started jamming, water would come out of both the tap and shower head and top of tap simultaneously whenever it was turned on. Eventually, it began dripping constantly.

I reported the issue to the housing association.

Last Friday, a representative visited our home regarding a separate complaint (about a contractor breaking into our house—long story, see my other post if you want to know more. While she was here, she looked at the tap, took photos, and said she’d pass them on to their contractor to arrange a replacement tap.

Today, a plumber came out and I was told he would replace tap. However, after removing the bath panel and inspecting, he claimed the housing association had given him the wrong information and that he didn’t have the correct tap in his van.

What I don’t understand is, why remove the bath panel if you already know you don’t have the right part?

He reattached the panel and then started fiddling with the tap. He managed a temporary fix to get the lever working again, but it’s clearly not going to last.

In the process, he snapped part of the spout on end of tap and made the situation worse. The tap now pours hot water slowly but continuously and can’t be fully turned off. He left abruptly without resolving the issue.

I’ve contacted the housing association again, and they say they’ll order the correct tap and contact me once it arrives. Based on past experience, I’m not confident they’ll get it right—or do it promptly.

So I’ve taken matters into my own hands and ordered the exact replacement tap myself, which is due to arrive tomorrow. I’m now considering hiring a competent plumber to install it, assuming I get permission from the housing association first.

Does anyone know roughly how much it would cost to have a plumber install a bath/shower mixer tap? I’m on a water meter, so I’m paying for every drop that’s currently leaking out. It’s very frustrating.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

ic

A picture of the tap, and maybe what he found under the bath could tell a thousand words.

FonsoBoy123

Here are some pictures of tap, I don't know what he saw when removed bath panel, he removed it and put it back very quick. Barely a quick glance. 

I got the feeling he didn't want to do job as space was too tight so just made excuses. To get out of there. I could be wrong but that's the impression I got.

I would remove bath panel and take photos but can't get down on floor to do it due to medical reasons. 

molerat

A lot depends on where in the country you are but I expect you wouldn't see much change out of £200.

WIAWSNB

Alternatively, tho' it ain't a completely satisfactory solution, the working parts from the new tap can almost certainly be transplanted fairly easily - both tap cartridges + handles, the water diverter, even the new nozzle.
Do you know a competent DIYer or handyperson? 
Can you shut off the supply to that tap? Aren't you losing all your hot water?!

bjorn_toby_wilde

WIAWSNB said:

Alternatively, tho' it ain't a completely satisfactory solution, the working parts from the new tap can almost certainly be transplanted fairly easily - both tap cartridges + handles, the water diverter, even the new nozzle.

Only if it’s the same make and model surely?

Bigphil1474

We've used the same plumber for years. We had a kitchen tap supplied and replaced last year and it cost £100. We had a bathroom sink plug device and toilet flusher replaced this year, and that cost £110. Assuming the tap is identical, I'd be surprised if it took a decent plumber more than 15 minutes to replace. £100 should cover it.

WIAWSNB

bjorn_toby_wilde said:

WIAWSNB said:

Alternatively, tho' it ain't a completely satisfactory solution, the working parts from the new tap can almost certainly be transplanted fairly easily - both tap cartridges + handles, the water diverter, even the new nozzle.

Only if it’s the same make and model surely?

Absolutely. I was going by the OP's description; "...ordered the exact replacement tap myself", but it would have to be pretty 'exact'. 

bjorn_toby_wilde

WIAWSNB said:

bjorn_toby_wilde said:

WIAWSNB said:

Alternatively, tho' it ain't a completely satisfactory solution, the working parts from the new tap can almost certainly be transplanted fairly easily - both tap cartridges + handles, the water diverter, even the new nozzle.

Only if it’s the same make and model surely?

Absolutely. I was going by the OP's description; "...ordered the exact replacement tap myself", but it would have to be pretty 'exact'. 

Oops. Missed that bit. Sorry.