Do you need planning permission for a wet room?

Author: Shaina Windler  |  Last update: Saturday, August 30, 2025

Planning permission is only typically required if you are building a new structure, changing the use of a building or making a major modification (e.g. an extension). Most internal alterations, like installing a disabled wet room, won't need planning permission.

Do you need planning permission for a wetroom?

Planning permission is not required for the installation of a wet room within a home when transforming an existing bathroom area. However, in the case of new build properties, the design of a wet room will involve applying for building regulations approval.

Do you need consent for a wet room?

You will need a building consent to: install a tiled wet area shower - as it involves critical building work that is not sanitary plumbing, such as carpentry and installing waterproof membranes.

What are the requirements for a wet room?

Wet room wooden floor structural rigidity
  • a subfloor within the wooden joist spaces will need to be constructed using plywood.
  • A minimum of 18mm ply should be installed between the joists, finishing flush with the top of the joists.
  • the 22mm floor former should then be installed above the ply lining.

What is the downside of a wetroom?

Everything could get very wet

The fact that the shower is no longer housed in something, it is somewhat inevitable that the whole room could get wet when in use. This can make it tricky to keep things like towels, toilet paper and any other soft furnishings dry.

Do I need planning permission for a garden room?

Does a wet room add value to a house?

Modern wet rooms are not only hugely practical, but they can also look incredibly stylish, meaning they will always add value to your home. The key aspect to getting it right is choosing the correct installer.

Do you need a special floor for a wet room?

No, you don't need a special type of floor for a wetroom. Most flooring you could use in a bathroom or even a kitchen can be used in a wetroom. However, you'll want to consider elements such as: Waterproofing.

Who is entitled to a wet room?

In particular, wet rooms are ideal for those with disabilities or whose mobility is impaired. Fortunately, homeowners may be eligible to get a Disabled Facilities Grant towards the cost of having a wet room installed in their home.

Can I install a wet room myself?

Yes, you can. with a wet room kit, installing a wet room try can be fairly simple. However, we'd still recommend that you get a professional in. A professional plumber or installer will be able to create a much cleaner, and more reliable, wet room which will deliver years of service.

Can I turn my shower into a wet room?

While it is possible to renovate your existing bathroom into a wet room, this may involve considerable work. From positioning the wet room shower tray to selecting the right tiles for the floor, there are lots of things to consider.

Does a sunroom need a permit?

Don't skip this crucial step! Permits can seem like a hassle and added expense when you just want to get started. But trust us, it's not worth the risk. Your local building department wants permits for good reason – to ensure the safety, legality, and structural soundness of additions like solariums.

Can you have a bathtub in a wet room?

Yes, it can be possible to put a freestanding bath in a wet room. However, it is not something we would recommend. This is because wet rooms are designed for use with a shower, rather than a bath. A wet room removes the need for an enclosure and usually uses a glass screen.

What are the electrical regulations for a wet room?

Wet Room Electrical Building Regulations

This section states that no mains voltage may be fitted in a wet room. This includes electric shaving sockets as well as light switches and standard sockets. All lights should be enclosed and mounted on the ceiling, with a pull cord switch installed for use.

What is considered a wet room?

A wet room is a completely waterproofed enclosure that encompasses the shower and often the tub. This space has been "tanked"—which means the floors, walls, and even the ceiling are sealed to keep moisture out. Plus it usually features a curbless shower entry that's level with the whole floor.

How do I create a wet room on a budget?

If your budget is limited, there are ways to reduce the cost:
  1. Opt for a vinyl floor rather than stone tiles. ...
  2. Use acrylic wall panels instead of tile. ...
  3. Go for a smaller wet room. ...
  4. Install grab rails and a shower seat separately later if needed. ...
  5. Look for specialist wet room companies as they may offer discounts on labour costs.

Does a wet room add value?

Will a Wet Room Add Value? Installing a wet room will definitely give your home the extra 'wow' factor when the time comes to sell. It will also add value as long as the wet room is properly installed. However, this is only the case if you add a wet room as an en suite or second shower room.

How long does it take to install a wet room?

In most cases, an experienced plumber or wet room specialist can install a wet room in as little as four days. However, don't be surprised if it takes a little longer.

How much does it cost to convert a small bathroom to a wet room?

Based on the size of your bathroom, wet room installation can cost anywhere from £3500 to £10,000. Labour costs will increase with additional features, such as underfloor heating or a shower screen.

What is the criteria for a wet room?

A wetroom is essentially a shower room without any barriers to entry. The most obvious difference is that a wetroom does not have a separate shower tray to step into. Instead, tile or stone continues on a level through into the shower area, where the floor slopes to allow water to drain away.

Why are wet rooms so expensive?

Wet room remodels typically cost about 20-30% more than traditional bathroom installations, according to Fixr data. The price may vary depending on factors like location and materials used. The high cost is due to the need for extensive waterproofing and specialized drainage.

What is the best flooring for a wet room?

However, if you opt for a wet area in your bathroom, then you could always try one of these options that also work well.
  • Tiles. Tiles are often the star of the show in a wet room as they can be used both on the floor and on walls. ...
  • Mosaics. ...
  • Marble. ...
  • Limestone. ...
  • Ceramic.

How often should a wet room floor be changed?

The frequency of changing a wet room floor depends on factors like the quality of materials used, maintenance practices, and general wear and tear. Well-installed and properly maintained wet room floors can last for many years before requiring replacement.

What is the disadvantage of wet floor?

An Excessive Amount of Water is Exposed to the Floor

This type of bathroom system has disadvantages, one being that the excessive amount of water exposed to the floor can make it unsafe for people to walk or stand on. The water creates a slip risk and can lead to injuries, especially for older people.

Are wet rooms still in style?

Wet rooms are growing increasingly popular with high-end renovators and interior designers. Think of these as a splash zone for your bathroom, an area where the shower and/or bathtub are placed, usually surrounded by tile, where the water can stay separate from your sink and toilet.

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