How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Toilet? [2024]

Has your toilet seen better days? Do you want to modernise your bathroom with a new toilet?

Replacing a toilet could cost anywhere from $150 to $400, depending on the type of toilet and how easy the job is. A straightforward job should cost from $150 to $250, but on average toilet replacement costs between $300 and $400 or more if plumbing needs to be moved

Even though toilets are not exactly the sexiest fixtures you will ever buy, there is no denying how indispensable they are. But how much should you expect to pay to have a new suite installed?

This article will help you figure out:

• The different types of toilet suites available
• How much an installation may cost
• How much toilet suites cost

What type of toilet suite?

There are four main types of toilet suites you will come across:

Close coupled toilet: this is a very common design, where the cistern sits directly above the toilet pan.

Wall faced toilet: this toilet has a hidden cistern, with the toilet flush against the surface of the wall.

Back to wall toilet: this toilet suite and cistern is attached to the bathroom wall, with no pipes visible.

Wall hung toilet: similar to the wall faced style, except this toilet is fixed directly to the wall. The most stylish and expensive option.

There are other types of toilets, find out here to know what is a rimless toilet?

What type of toilet outlet do you have?

If you are replacing an existing toilet, and want to swop it out without any other work, you need to know what type of toilet outlet you have. There are "S trap" or "P trap" toilet outlets. S trap toilets empty through the floor, while P trap toilet pipes exit through the wall. You can usually tell the difference simply by looking at your toilet outlet. If there is no visible connection to the wall, it is probably an S trap toilet.

© Geberit

#hiptip: All modern toilets are required to be dual flush for water efficiency, make sure yours is WELS compliant

Do I need to use a licensed tradie?

Yes. A toilet is part of your plumbing system, and needs to be installed by a licensed and qualified plumber. If you are undertaking a complete bathroom renovation and replacing your toilet as part of this job, your bathroom renovator needs to be appropriately licensed and use a plumber for this job.

© emme designs

#hiptip: If you are not a plumber, don't DIY. You need to be qualified and licensed to carry this work out

Hiring a plumber

When it comes time to hiring a plumber make sure they are right for your job. Some questions to ask then include:

• Are you licensed?
• Are you insured to work in my home?
• How long will my job take?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• Do you have references I can follow up?
• Can I see examples of your work?

© hipages

 

How much does a toilet cost?

Of course, before you replace your toilet, you're going to have to choose a new toilet. Depending on the toilet you choose, it can cost as little as $150 or up to $1000 or more for a floor-mounted hidden cistern or wall hung toilet. On average, a good quality floor-mounted vitreous china toilet costs between $350 and $650.

For an idea here are some current prices:

• $424 for a Porcher Cygnet square closed coupled toilet
• $510 for a Geberit Sigma50 flush plate (chrome)
• $906 for a Geberit Sigma 75 wall hung pneumatic cistern (cistern only)
• $1035 for a AXA Uno close coupled BTW suite
• $1312 for a Laufen by Laufen wall hung pan (cistern seperate)

© JLT Renovations

How much does toilet installation cost?

Plumbers rates for toilet replacement are based on their hourly rates and start at about $55 per hour. Because plumbers install so many toilets, they are often able to give you firm installation quotes. A relatively easy installation might cost between $150 and $250 for replacing your toilet, but on average, toilet replacement costs between $300 and $400.

If you are installing a more complex unit, such as a hidden cistern or wall hung toilet, then expect to pay considerably more for your plumbers time.

Read more: How much does a plumber cost?

In some locations, rebates are available for replacing old toilets with new, water-saving toilets. The rebates can come in the form of installation rebates of up to $100 or even larger rebates for purchases of approved toilets and installation combined. Approved toilets must have at least 3 or 4 Star WELS water ratings and usually are recognised top Australian made brands.

#hiptip: Get at least three quotes before you commit to hiring anyone, so you can compare price and level of service

Getting quotes from plumbers

Experienced plumbers can usually give you a reasonable cost estimate in advance. You might find that a qualified Master Plumber who charges a higher hourly rate will turn out to be less expensive than a less well-equipped or experienced plumber who charges a budget rate, so don't make a judgement based on their hourly charge alone. Choose a plumber who is well-established in your area and you'll probably choose the best plumber at the best price.

The best way of finding out the cost of your project to get quotes from local plumbers. This will give you a sense of what market rates currently are.

* All the costs and prices quoted were sourced at the time this article was written. They are indicative, may vary locally, are subject to market forces and should only be used as a guide.