Tap installation: Cost breakdown 2026

A new set of taps can do wonders for your bathroom or kitchen aesthetic and in the summer months, an outdoor tap can make washing the car a breeze - not to mention watering the garden.

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Are you looking to install an outdoor tap or want new taps for your bathroom or kitchen as part of a renovation? Getting an idea of pricing ahead of the project is a good place to start. 

How much does a tap installation cost in 2026?

The average UK cost of tap installation is £140 (labour only). However, prices will vary depending on the amount of work needed, the location of the water source, and the number of taps that need to be installed.

Next, let’s examine the costs involved in greater detail. Alternatively, find a plumber near you now to get an exact quote.

Tap installation costs in the UK

Here are some average costs to replace taps, including materials and labour:

• Cost to replace basin taps – £140-£220

• Mixer tap replacement cost – £140-£260

• Bath tap replacement cost – £200-£320

• Cost of kitchen tap replacement – £140-£240

• Cost of plumber to replace taps (labour only) – £80-£200

• Cost to install a Quooker kitchen tap - £300-£400 labour plus £1,500 for materials

How much does it cost to fit an outside tap in the UK?

Typical outside tap installation costs work out slightly less, fluctuating between £120-£200 for materials and labour.

However, the full cost depends on the pipework needed, the desired location of the tap, the accessibility of the water source, and whether you need a cold or hot water supply. 

Tap installation cost: Job estimator tool

Use our job estimator tool below to help calculate how much you should pay for a new tap near you.

Factors affecting the cost of tap installation

Whether indoor or outdoor, the total cost for tap installation will depend on various factors. Quotes provided by tradespeople will be calculated according to:

Accessibility of the water source

Location of the tap and accessibility of water source will be the first details a plumber asks in order to provide a quote. Kitchen and laundry room tap installations can be challenging if the tradesperson has to rework the plumbing to fit a new tap.

Style of tap

The type of tap you choose can crank up the overall price. If you’re watching your budget, try not to be tempted by fancy add-ons such as pull-out sprayers and touchless operation functions – these will only add to the cost.

Tap installation materials and equipment costs

If you purchase the taps ahead of the project, make sure to tell a tradesperson before sourcing the quote. If you already have them on hand, your plumber will not need to order them ahead of the tap installation. Other materials will be needed for proper installation, including the plumbing connections, copper and sealant, all of which will factor into the tap installation cost.

Hidden costs to watch out for

Outdoor hot water tap

An outdoor hot water tap is handy to have, especially for dog owners. A plumber can connect the outside tap to the hot water feed (normally under the kitchen sink) and fit an outside mixer tap. Although it will cost more than a standard outdoor tap with a cold water supply.

Location

As with most home renovation projects, costs in the capital tend to be slightly higher. Similarly, if your plumber has to travel a distance to get to your property, you might find the quote is more expensive.

Cost of hiring a plumber vs DIY

Depending on your experience, you might opt for the DIY approach.  To install your own tap, you will need to buy all of the pipework and fittings - not to mention the right type of drill if you don't already have one. 

Altogether, you can expect to spend around £80 on DIY tap installation. Our how-to guide has all the steps you need to know to install a tap yourself.

Request a quote from a checked plumber

Are you unsure if you have the DIY experience to install a tap yourself? Hiring a domestic plumber might be a better plan. 

Our request a quote feature is perfect for getting tap installation quotes – you post details about the job you want doing, and we’ll send it out to Checkatrade tradespeople covering your local area.

Alternatively, you can use our handy search bar to find checked plumbing services near you.

Plumber day rates UK

The average rate for a plumber to fit a tap is around £40-£60 per hour – depending on their experience, the complexity of the installation, and where you live.

For more information on prices, check out our guide to plumber costs.

Tap installation cost checklist

• Typical outside tap installation costs fluctuate between £120-£200 depending on how straightforward the task is and whether extra materials are needed

• Outside taps must be installed in line with current building regulations. Your plumber will be able to advise on this

• You may choose to supply materials yourself to lower installation costs. Always communicate this before sourcing a quote from a professional

Tap installation cost calculator 

To calculate the total cost of installing a tap, you'll need to factor in any new pipework needed (if you're installing a tap where there wasn't one before) and the materials required for the job.

Add on the cost of labour, and you should have a decent estimate for the price of the work. 

If in doubt, speak to checked tradespeople covering your local area to get accurate plumbing quotes for the job.

Tap installation costs: FAQs

How long does it take to install an outdoor tap?

Outdoor tap installation will vary depending on what your plumber discovers when they assess it (e.g. exposing pipework, needing to cut out cabinets, furniture needing moving, sorting drainage, etc). It's best to factor in a few hours, but it could take longer.

What are the benefits of installing an outdoor tap?

Installing an outdoor tap can make a range of outdoor activities more convenient. From washing the car and cleaning the patio to watering plants, having easy access to running water in the garden can make all the difference.

Can I get an outdoor hot water tap?

An outdoor hot water tap is handy, especially for dog owners who might want to clean a muddy pup in the garden (rather than in the house).

A plumber connects the outside tap to the hot water feed (normally under the kitchen sink) and fits an outside mixer tap. This gives you the option of an outdoor hot and cold water supply.

Installing an outdoor hot water tap takes a few hours to complete and costs between £50-£80. Our ask a trade article has plenty more information about what’s involved.

How long does it take to install a kitchen tap UK?

Most skilled tradespeople will only need about 1-3 hours to install new kitchen taps, though this will depend on your requirements. If you only need the taps to be replaced and there is no need for any reworking of plumbing, it will only take 1-2 hours.

If you also want a new sink installed at the time, a plumber will allocate an extra 1-2 hours for the entire job which will be reflected in your bill. If they find a burst or leaking pipe, the plumber will also need to repair that at the same time and add to the total cost.

Installing a boiling water tap will bump up the costs further.

How much does a kitchen tap installation cost UK?

Getting new taps installed can be a quick fix, whether as part of a kitchen renovation project or a standalone job to freshen up the look of your kitchen. What's more, the average cost for kitchen tap installation is relatively affordable, typically falling between £80-£150.

Can I install a tap myself?

Yes, but only if you have considerable plumbing experience and are familiar with the process of tap installation. However, considering the cost of tools and materials needed for installing your own taps is around £80, it's worth instructing a professional to avoid pitfalls that those unfamiliar with plumbing can run into.

Start your search for a checked plumber today with Checkatrade. Just enter your postcode below – it’s that simple.