

Is $7,000 to replace bathtub with shower/tub surround a fair price?
Project Details
My bathtub faucet started to turn on spontaneously, so it clearly needed a replacement. Initially, I thought it would just be a faucet replacement. The plumber said he would have to cut out a panel to access it and then all the surrounding panels would need to be replaced as well. He then recommended a complete tub replacement with a shower/tub surround instead of just replacing panels and sliding glass doors, saying they would just "be a problem" over time. The initial quote was for $6k, which was also supposed to include repairing a small copper pipe in the basement shower that was fully accessible without any drywall work. Since the new tub would be white, I updated the bathroom toilet to match (it was colored to match the old tub). The new bathtub and toilet were installed, but the plumber left the walls above the tub to the ceiling and between the tub and toilet exposed to studs and insulation. He said he would come out the next day to complete the basement pipe repair as he didn't have the needed parts. The next day, I called the plumber back and was told he would not be back to fix the basement pipe because the original work was not up to code. He then told us we would have to have a contractor come out to replace the drywall! The estimate provided by the plumber was sent via an email link that is now unavailable. The invoice received had costs over $7k for the tub install, $805 for the toilet (which is a model available for $99-300 elsewhere), and $1800 for drywall repair! The total charges are nearly $10,000! Mind you, there is nothing fancy about the tub (no jets, etc.). I'm wondering if these charges are typical or completely overpriced. This is from a "reputable" company, which is unbelievable!
Quote Details
Complete replacement of the existing bathtub. - Installation of a new shower/tub surround. - Standard tub model (no jets, etc.).
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More Details
Category
Bathroom Remodeling
Price
$7,000
Quote Date
May 16, 2025
Location
Iowa
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