Mobility Bathroom FAQs | Wet Rooms, Showers & VAT Relief
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General Assisted Bathroom FAQs

01 What is a mobility bathroom?
A mobility bathroom is a bathroom designed to be safer, more accessible, and easier to use for people with reduced mobility, disabilities, or age-related needs. It typically includes features such as level-access showers or wet rooms, walk-in baths, slip-resistant flooring, grab rails, and easy-to-use controls. Our Mobility bathrooms are fully bespoke. Tailored to your home, preferences, and care requirements — and are a smart investment if you want to stay independent and comfortable for longer.
02 Can mobility bathrooms still look stylish and modern?
Today's mobility bathrooms are completely bespoke and stylish not clinical in anyway. With countless wall panel finishes, flooring choices, and furniture styles. You can choose from modern, minimalist looks or warm, homely designs — all while integrating essential safety features. Our advisors work with you to create a space that's practical, beautiful, and tailored to your taste.
03 How much does a mobility bathroom cost?
Since every bathroom is unique, Costs vary depending on the size of the bathroom, the type of adaptation and the products chosen, Because every bathrrom is unique, we always provide a free, no-obligation home consultation and quote so you can explore your options without pressure. If eligible, VAT relief can also help reduce costs significantly.
04 Can I get a free home assessment before installation?
Yes — at Able Bathing, we offer free, no-obligation home consultations across Scotland. During this visit, one of our specialists will assess your space, discuss your needs, and talk you through the best options for your home, needs and budget. We'll also explain, VAT relief, and design choices so you can make an informed decision with no pressure.
05 How long does a full bathroom adaptation take from start to finish?
Timelines vary depending on the bathroom, but most installations are completed within 5–7 days. Smaller conversion can be finished in just a few days, while more complex bathrooms may take slightly longer. We always provide a clear timeline before work begins and keep disruption to an absolute minimum.

Wet Room FAQs

01 What is a wet room and how does it work?
A wet room is a fully waterproofed bathroom where the shower area is level with the floor meaning there's no raised shower tray, step, or threshold. Instead, water drains away through a built-in floor gradient shower tray and concealed drainage system. Because the entire space is sealed and waterproof, you can safely shower without worrying about leaks or splashes. Wet rooms are ideal for creating a modern, open-plan bathroom and are particularly beneficial for people with mobility needs, as they offer completely barrier-free access.
02 Are wet rooms suitable for elderly people or those with limited mobility?
Wet rooms are the safest and most accessible bathroom solutions for older adults and people with reduced mobility. Their level-access design eliminates trip hazards, while non-slip flooring and carefully positioned grab rails provide extra support and confidence. Because there's no shower tray or step to navigate, they're also suitable for wheelchair users and for those who may require carer assistance in the future. Many of our customers in Scotland choose a wet room to help them stay independent at home for longer.
03 Can I have a wet room upstairs in my home?
With proper installation, a wet room can be added to both ground-floor and upstairs bathrooms. The key is expert waterproofing, floor reinforcement (if needed), and correct drainage design — all of which our team at Able Bathing handles during the planning and installation process. Whether you live in a modern property or a traditional Scottish home with timber floors or even a concrete floor a wet room can be installed.
04 How much space do I need for a wet room?
Wet rooms are very flexible and can be designed to suit bathrooms of almost any size. While a larger room allows for a more open layout, many of our clients in Edinburgh and Glasgow choose to convert smaller bathrooms into practical, fully functional wet rooms. Clever design choices, such as glass screens and wall-mounted fittings, can maximise space and comfort even in compact rooms.
05 What are the main safety features of a wet room?
Wet rooms are designed with safety as a top priority. Key features typically include non-slip flooring, level-access entry, thermostatically controlled showers (to prevent scalding), strategically placed grab rails and mobility aids.
06 Can a wet room be installed in a small bathroom?
Yes wet rooms are one of the best solutions for small bathrooms. Because they remove the need for bulky trays and enclosures, they create a more spacious feel and maximise usable floor area. Even in tight spaces, careful planning ensures the water drains properly and the rest of the room stays dry. Compact wet rooms are especially popular in smaller Scottish properties, cottages, and upstairs bathrooms.
07 Are wet rooms easy to clean and maintain?
Wet rooms are generally easier to clean than traditional bathrooms, there are fewer places for dirt and limescale to build up. No-grout wall panels and slip-resistant flooring reduce mould and bacteria growth. Regular cleaning with non-abrasive products is all that's usually needed to keep your wet room looking like new.
08 How long does a wet room installation take?
Installation time depends on the size of the bathroom and the level of customisation, but most wet rooms can be completed in 5–7 days. Our team will always provide a clear timeline during your free home consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
09 Do wet rooms qualify for VAT relief in Scotland?
Yes, you may be eligible for zero-rated VAT. We can guide you through the process and help with the necessary documentation.
010 What's the difference between a wet room and a walk-in shower?
The main difference is in the floor and layout. A walk-in shower has a low-profile tray but still has a step up in to the shower area, while a wet room is fully waterproofed and open-plan, with level-access flooring and no visible tray. Wet rooms are the more future-proof option. They offer more space for carers, mobility aids, or wheelchairs and remove every potential trip hazard. They're considered the best long-term solution for accessibility and independence.
11 Are wet rooms worth it if I plan to live independently for longer?
Absolutely. Many homeowners choose a wet room as part of a "future-proofing" plan, even if they don't currently have mobility challenges. Because they're barrier-free, adaptable, and easy to maintain, wet rooms can support independent living for decades — potentially delaying or avoiding the need to move home in the future.
12 Can a wet room be adapted for wheelchair use?
Yes, wet rooms are ideal for wheelchair users. The open-plan, step-free design allows wheelchair users to move freely, while reinforced flooring and wall-mounted support rails make transferring safer and easier. We can also install additional features such as fold-down seating, wider doorways, and accessible storage.

Walk-In Shower FAQs

01 What is a walk-in shower and how is it different from a wet room?
A walk-in shower is a shower area with a low-profile tray, designed to provide easier, safer access than a traditional enclosure. Unlike a wet room, which has level-access flooring and is fully waterproofed throughout, a walk-in shower contains water within a defined shower zone like a traditional bathroom with a shower. It still offers excellent accessibility and modern style.
02 Can I replace my bath with a walk-in shower?
Yes — bath-to-shower conversions are one of the most common projects we complete across Scotland. We simply remove the existing bathtub and replace it with a low-threshold shower tray and screen, often re-using the same plumbing points to minimise disruption. This is a quick, effective way to make your bathroom more accessible and safer, especially if stepping into a bath has become difficult.
03 How long does a walk-in shower installation take?
Most walk-in shower installations are completed in 5 to 7 days, depending on the size of the bathroom and whether additional work is needed. Our team will provide a clear timeline after your free home consultation.
04 What safety features can I include in a walk-in shower?
Walk-in showers can be fitted with a wide range of safety features, including non-slip trays, grab rails, thermostatic controls, built-in seating, fold-down benches, and handheld shower heads. Many of these features are especially helpful for older adults, people with limited mobility, or anyone planning to age in place. All safety features are installed to enhance accessibility without making the space look clinical.
05 Will a walk-in shower look clinical or like a hospital bathroom?
No — modern walk-in showers are designed to look stylish and contemporary, with sleek glass panels, designer fixtures, and elegant wall finishes. Even with essential safety features, the space will look like a modern, premium bathroom rather than a care facility. At Able Bathing, we offer dozens of wall panel finishes and fittings so your shower suits your personal taste and home style.
06 Can I have a walk-in shower installed upstairs?
Yes — as long as your existing plumbing and floor structure are suitable, walk-in showers can be installed on any floor of your home. Our installers will assess your property during a free consultation to make sure the right drainage and waterproofing measures are in place. It's a popular upgrade in upstairs bathrooms throughout Edinburgh, Glasgow, and across Scotland.
07 Are walk-in showers suitable for people with dementia?
Yes — walk-in showers can be designed with dementia-friendly features such as simple lever controls, temperature limiters, contrast-coloured fixtures, and non-slip flooring. Clear, clutter-free layouts and minimal visual complexity also make the space easier to navigate, helping reduce confusion and anxiety. However a full wet room would normally be the better option to eliminate any step ins and trip hazards.
08 Do walk-in showers qualify for VAT relief or grants?
Yes, you may qualify for zero-rated VAT. Our team can provide guidance on eligibility and paperwork during your consultation.
09 How much space do I need for a walk-in shower?
Walk-in showers are highly versatile and can be designed to fit bathrooms of almost any size. As a general guide, you'll need about the same space as a standard bath, but custom trays and screens mean we can often make them work in tighter areas too.
010 Can a walk-in shower be installed in place of a corner bath?
Yes — many homeowners choose to replace bulky corner baths with walk-in showers to free up space and improve accessibility. This type of installation is usually straightforward and can significantly modernise your bathroom layout.

Walk-In Bath FAQs

01 What is a walk-in bath and how does it work?
A walk-in bath is a specially designed bathtub with a low-threshold door that allows you to step in and out easily, without the need to climb over a high bath edge. Once inside, the door seals watertight and the bath fills as normal. Many models also feature built-in seating, slip-resistant flooring, thermostatic temperature controls, and even hydrotherapy jets. Walk-in baths are ideal for anyone who wants to continue enjoying a relaxing soak but needs a safer, more accessible way to bathe.
02 Can I replace my old bath with a walk-in bath?
Yes, your existing bath can be replaced directly with a walk-in bath without major structural work. Our team simply removes the old bath and installs the new one, connecting it to your current plumbing and drainage. This makes walk-in baths a popular choice for quick upgrades. Many installations in Scotland are completed within a few days, transforming your bathroom with minimal disruption.
03 How long does a walk-in bath installation take?
Installation time depends on the size of your bathroom and the specific model chosen, but most walk-in baths are installed in 2–5 days. Our team will give you a clear installation timeline during your free home consultation.
04 Are walk-in baths safe for elderly people?
Safety is the biggest benefits of a walk-in bath compared with a traditional bath with Features like slip-resistant flooring, low-entry doors, thermostatic temperature control, and built-in seats help reduce the risk of accidents.

What to Expect During Your

Free, No-Obligation Home Consultation

1. A Personal, Expert Home Visit

One of our friendly, fully vetted home assessors will visit at a time that suits you. They're experienced specialists who understand mobility challenges — so you can feel confident you're getting trusted advice in the comfort of your own home.

2. Understanding Your Needs

We'll take the time to listen carefully to the difficulties you're experiencing with your current bathroom — from accessibility concerns to safety risks — and talk you through the best options to solve them. Every recommendation is tailored to your lifestyle, mobility, and future needs.

3. Bespoke Design & Clear Quotation

After assessing and measuring your bathroom, we'll create a custom design and provide a clear, detailed quotation for your new mobility bathroom — with absolutely no pressure to proceed. You'll have everything you need to make an informed decision in your own time.

Home Assessment Visit

VAT Exemption

PAY NO VAT

The assessor will inform you about possible VAT exemptions on bathroom adaptations, offering significant savings.