Why Does Toilet Installation Cost So Much in NZ? (And How You're Probably Overpaying)

That "$150 toilet installation" quote you saw? It rarely ends up being that cheap. Most homeowners actually pay $300-$600 because of:

"Just a small extra..." fees (pipe adjustments +$150, floor repairs +$200)
Specialist toilets (Smart/wall-mounted models add $200+)
Winter tax (June-August prices jump 20%)

Real kicker? Many plumbers don't mention these extras until they're on-site.

4 Costly Traps Plumbers Don't Always Mention:

"Surprise Removal Fees" ($50–$100)

60% of quotes exclude disposal.

Sneaky Trick: They'll charge extra to haul away your old toilet.

"After-Hours Tax" (+50–100%)

Got a weekend leak? Emergency fees apply.

Smart Move: Schedule installations Tuesday-Thursday.

"Hidden Repair Bombs" ($100–$500)

Older homes = cracked pipes, rotten subfloors.

Red Flag: If they won't inspect first, walk away.

"Fake Warranties"

Budget installers often skip leak protection.

Must Ask: "Show me the warranty in writing."

How to Save Money on Toilet Installation

1. DIY What You Can (If You're Handy)

Remove the old toilet yourself (saves $80–$120)

Buy standard parts in advance (saves $30–$60)

2. Avoid Peak Season (June–August)

Plumbers charge 10–20% more in winter.

3. Choose the Right Toilet

Best for savings: Standard floor-mounted models (easiest to install).

Avoid headaches: Imported toilets often need costly adapters.

4. Get 3+ Quotes & Compare Carefully

Check if the price includes:
    Removal of old toilet
    Pipe adjustments
    Waste disposal
    Warranty

When Should You Definitely Hire a Pro?

Never DIY Toilet Installation If:

Your home is pre-1980 (asbestos in flooring/pipe insulation risks)

You're relocating the toilet (even 10cm requires costly pipe rerouting)

You're in an apartment (body corp rules + shared waste stacks = nightmare)

One wrong move could mean:
$2,000+ in water damage repairs
Structural rot from undetected leaks
Legal issues if you breach building codes

FAQs: What Homeowners Really Want to Know

Q: Why do quotes vary by $200+ for the same toilet?

A: It's usually due to:
    Warranty length (1 year vs. 3 years)
    Registered vs. unregistered plumbers
    Hidden fees (some include disposal, others don't)

Q: Who pays if there's a leak after installation?

A:
✔ If it's a plumber error → Their warranty should cover it.
✖ If it's a faulty toilet → You'll need to deal with the supplier.

Q: How do I know if a quote is fair?

A: A trustworthy quote should list:
    Labour cost per hour ($65–$95)
    Materials needed
    Potential extra charges
    Company registration details

Q: What's the cheapest way to dispose of an old toilet?

A:
    DIY dump run ($10–$20 at a recycling center).
    Council collection (some areas offer free pickup).
    Pay the plumber ($50–$80, but easiest).

Final Warning: Why Skipping a Registered Plumber Could Cost You Thousands

A dodgy installer might save you $100 now, but could leave you with:

Leaks damaging floors ($500+ repairs)

Voided home insurance (if work isn't certified)

No recourse when things go wrong

Always verify licenses on Plumbing NZ's website - it takes 2 minutes but saves years of headaches.

Smart homeowners compare at least 3 registered plumbers before choosing. Start your search today!