How to save money on new bathroom?

SonOfPearl

I moved into a new house last year and I've finally decided to get the bathroom done out. My wife and I went to MFI and used their free design service to get some inspiration. The service was worthwhile for the ideas and nice 3D pictures, but the quote was extortionate (it was £3,500 just for the labour costs and delivery - before any materials costs).

I don't want to ask a detailed question about my quote, but a more general plea - what is the best way to go about getting a new bathroom that will enable me to pay a good price without getting ripped off? Are independent fitters much cheaper than chains like MFI? How can I check if a company is any good? Is it better to buy materials myself or let them do it for me?

I basically haven't got a clue and since knowledge is power, I'm in a weak position! :rotfl:

Any advice would be VERY gratefully received!

DNK

Independant fitters will would be cheaper but they can still mess you around.
From reading on here, the general concensus is never let MFI, B&Q etc do the installation of anything. If you find a nice suite from there at a good price then go for it but check EVERYTHING when it gets delivered as quite often there is a missing or broken part which you have to report within a short timescale of the delivery date.
I'm doing my bathroom now,and have bought items from Ebay and online stores, leaving out the chain stores altogether.

Make sure you get at least 3 quotes for comparison for installation. Try and get recommendations for them, that's often the best way.
I'm finding now though with quotes, installers have 2-3 months of work already as alot of people are doing up there homes rather than moving and it's getting towards the summer which is busier for building etc.

Have fun! I know I have :rolleyes:

rdpro

I don't know how far you are into Wales, but I've had a good quote over in Bristol from a 30+ years in the trade plumber/fitter - he gave me a sheet of all his fixed prices which I can scan and mail you if you like. He also recommended a local plumbers merchant who can beat all the chain stores for the suite ("talk to the owner, mention my name, he'll give you better discounts than his daughter will" )

booty40uk

Hi SonofPearl

Like you say, MFI and the others are good for getting the designs but are way over on the installation costs. You would be better to get an independent fitter but always ensure that you get recommendations first. Also ask for references and dont be afraid to follow up on them, even to the point of going to look at the work.

There are many bathroom suppliers in your area........i use a couple myself. I,m not sure exactly where you are but there are a few in Dowlais. There is also the www to shop around on which can save ££££ also. I have bought a few bathrooms on ebay evn and had no problems at all. I generally supply for customers myself but some like to go and sort it out themselves. Down to personal preference and whether you can be bothered in the end.

£3500 installation sounds high to say the least, but then again i dont know what the job entails. My next one is booked in for 3 weeks time and is less than that for supply and fit.

HTH

Andy