Toilet installation cost factors
Several factors affect the cost of getting a new toilet installed. For example:
Emergency installation. If a plumber has to quickly come and do a rush installation, they may charge an emergency fee for the expedited service. The plumbing may also cost a little if the plumber has to travel a far distance before installing the toilet.
Plumber rates. Some plumbers, particularly those with more experience, may charge more for their services. Others have experience in a wide range of plumbing disciplines, and you may pay a little more for that body of knowledge. Plumbers also charge different rates for their services, and some charge by the hour. Complexity. Your toilet installation cost will typically cost more if the job takes longer or involves complicated steps or repairs.
The number of toilets you’re installing may affect the price, as well. Each toilet requires different connections and positioning, so a plumber may either add hours or flat fees for each unit you have put in.
The type of toilet often has a significant effect on the cost of installation. This is due to both the labor cost and toilet prices. Some toilets require special skills to install, such as composting toilets. Because some plumbers may not have experience with these non-traditional toilets, you may have to pay a premium to find someone with experience.
Toilet removal. The plumber may charge a fee for taking your old toilet to the appropriate recycling facility. The plumber may also charge extra for dismantling your existing toilet.
Additional work is needed to make adjustments to the sewer line, supply lines, waste pipe or water lines in some cases. Regardless of the type of toilet you have, whether it’s an American Standard, TOTO or another brand, the plumber has to make sure everything connected to the toilet is working. This may add to the toilet cost.
Cost of major leaks and clogs
A simple fix to unclog a toilet may not cost a lot of money — project costs for a simple toilet repair run about $100 to $250 — but complicated clogs can increase plumbing costs dramatically. To unclog a severe blockage, your plumber may need to take apart the toilet and snake the main drain. Your plumber may even need to replace a toilet drain pipe.
If your leak has soaked the drywall in your bathroom, you may also need to tear out the wall and replace it. If a plumber finds your sewer line clogged with tree roots (a rare circumstance), a simple repair can transform into an expensive plumbing problem. The cost to remove a serious blockage from your pipes can cost several hundred dollars. Replacing wax rings or installing a new flange may be more expensive, too, because the plumber has to remove the toilet entirely to access the old flange or wax ring. The plumber then needs to reseat and reseal the wax ring, flange and toilet.
Surprise costs to watch out for
Removing an old toilet often reveals unexpected problems, which can lead to surprise costs. These problems may include:
Unexpected leaks around the toilet or in the pipes
A cracked flange, which causes a wobbly toilet
An improper wax ring seal replacement or compression
Poor caulking around the toilet base
Sometimes homeowners discover more expensive problems, such as plumbing lines that must be repaired or modified to fit the new fixture, water damage to the floor underneath or around the toilet or water damage to the wall behind the fixture.
How to save money
You can save money by choosing a different type of toilet or by finding ways to reduce the installation costs. One way to save is by having several toilets installed at the same time. In this case, the homeowner may pay less per toilet than if they had the plumber install one toilet per visit. You may also want to consider having them all done by the same plumber in one visit.
Choosing a less expensive toilet or one that may be easier to install can save you money, too. One-piece and two-piece toilets, for example, may cost less to install than a smart toilet or wall-hung toilet.
When doing a full bathroom remodel, your contractors might be able to secure deals or discounts on new toilets. Don’t hesitate to ask them how to save money on this project. How to hire a toilet installer
When hiring a plumber or toilet installation service, ask the right questions and provide them with the information they need to assess the job. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Ask the pro how much experience they have with your specific kind of job. Tell them about the type of toilet you want or have purchased, and ask if they’re familiar with the procedures for installing it.
Tell them how many bathrooms you have and all the details about those that will be getting a new toilet. Include information about where the toilet will be located, what’s surrounding it and if there are any potential space issues.
Ask how they charge — by the hour, for a flat fee or a combination of both.
Ask about free estimates. Then, have three or more plumbers provide you with their prices and keep track of their costs.
Check your local municipality to see which credentials a plumber needs to have to install a toilet. Then, ask if each plumber has the credentials required in your area.
FAQs
Can I install a toilet myself?
In some situations, you might be able to install a toilet yourself. However, it’s always better to get a pro to do it. This can prevent potentially expensive leaks due to floor and ceiling damage. How long does it take to install a toilet?
It’s difficult to say precisely how long it takes to install a toilet because each installation is unique. To get an estimate based on your situation, chat with a pro.
Can a handyman change a toilet?
If the plumbing is already in place, yes, a handyman can change a toilet in many cases. How often should you replace your toilet?
You should replace your toilet whenever it malfunctions or shows signs of significant damage. However, because toilets are durable, they can last many years without needing to be replaced.