Check where the waste can go
Mark the toilet, bath or shower, basin, door and window on a rough plan. Identify which fittings you want to move. The position of the toilet’s waste pipe and access through walls or floors can limit a new layout.
For a bath-to-shower change, ask the installer to check the tray or floor detail, waste route and screen clearance. A picture of the desired finish does not establish whether that arrangement can be built in your room.
Have products checked before paying for them
Send the installer the exact shower, taps, tray, screen and toilet specifications. The water supply, pressure requirements, waste connections and fitting clearances must suit those products. Check delivery dates and inspect for damage before removing the existing bathroom.
- Shower and taps compatible with the water supply
- Tray, screen and waste compatible with each other
- Enough space to open doors and reach controls
- Fixing requirements suitable for the walls or floor
- Access for future maintenance and replacement parts
Specify the work underneath the finish
Ask for wall and floor preparation, waterproofing, tile coverage, trims and sealing to be described separately. Naming a tile range alone does not specify the construction of a wet area.
Confirm who assesses ventilation and electrics. Some bathroom alterations may need building regulations approval, including electrical changes near a bath or shower. Check the applicable route with the installer or building control before work starts.
Agree access to the toilet and shower
Tell the contractor if this is your only bathroom. Ask which facilities will be unavailable, for how long, and what can be reinstated between stages; do not assume daily access will be possible.
If damaged surfaces are exposed during strip-out, request photographs, a repair description and a price before authorising extra work. At handover, record outstanding items and keep product instructions, care guidance and any required certificates.
