Post By Admin
July 2, 2026If you’re thinking about putting a urinal in house bathrooms, the short answer is yes, it can be done.
But before you install one, there are a few things to think about first.
A home urinal can be practical in some situations. It can save water, free up the toilet, and make things easier for some households.
That said, it’s not always the right fit.
Space, plumbing access, drainage, and cleaning all play a part. In some homes, installing a urinal can be simple. In others, it may involve bigger plumbing changes.
In this guide, we’ll look at what to consider before adding a urinal to your house and when it’s worth speaking to a plumber.
Can You Put a Urinal in a House?
Yes, you can.
There is no rule saying urinals are only for public bathrooms. Plenty of homeowners install them in private bathrooms, sheds, pool houses, or man caves.
But like any plumbing fixture, it has to meet Australian plumbing standards.
That means:
- proper drainage
- correct waste connections
- suitable water supply
- proper ventilation
- floor waste in some setups
Before installing one, it’s worth checking what’s possible with your existing plumbing.
Why Would Someone Want a Urinal at Home?
For most households, a standard toilet does the job just fine. But there are some situations where a urinal can make sense.
#1 Convenience
In busy households, an extra fixture can help reduce bathroom wait times. This can be useful if multiple people are getting ready at the same time.
#2 Easier for Older Adults
For some older men, especially at night, using a urinal can feel easier and quicker than sitting or lifting a toilet seat.
#3 Toilet Training
Some families with young boys find urinals helpful during toilet training. It can make the process a little simpler.
#4 Water Savings
Some urinals use less water than standard toilets.
Waterless models use none at all. That can help reduce water usage over time.
What Should You Consider Before Installing One?
Just because you can install one does not always mean you should. Here are a few things to think about.
#1 Bathroom Space
This is the big one.
Most home bathrooms are already tight on space. Adding another fixture can make the room feel crowded.
If your bathroom is small, a urinal may not be the best use of space. A toilet is usually the more practical option.
#2 Plumbing Access
Installing a urinal is easier if there are already water and waste pipes nearby. If not, the job can get more complicated.
Moving pipes inside walls or under floors can increase the cost. This is especially true in older Melbourne homes.
#3 Drainage Requirements
A urinal needs proper drainage just like a toilet.
That includes:
- the correct waste pipe
- the right fall for drainage
- proper trap installation
- ventilation
Poor drainage can cause smells, slow draining, or blockages.
#4 Cleaning and Maintenance
Urinals need regular cleaning.
If they are not cleaned properly, they can smell. This is one of the main reasons some homeowners avoid them.
Like any bathroom fixture, maintenance matters.
#5 Who Will Actually Use It?
A urinal is useful for some people, but not everyone.
In many households, it may only be used by one or two people. That makes it worth asking whether the extra space and cost is really worth it.
#6 Future Resale Value
Not every buyer will love the idea of a urinal in the bathroom. Some may see it as useful. Others may see it as unnecessary.
If you plan to sell in the future, it is something to think about.
What Plumbing Is Needed for a Home Urinal?
This depends on the type of urinal and where you want it installed.
In most cases, you will need:
#1 Water Supply
Traditional urinals need a water connection for flushing. Waterless urinals do not, but they still need proper waste plumbing.
#2 Waste Pipe Connection
A urinal waste cannot just connect anywhere. It needs to connect properly into the drainage system.
#3 Trap Installation
A trap helps stop sewer smells from coming back into the bathroom. This is a key part of the installation.
#4 Venting
Good venting helps keep the drainage system working properly.
Without it, you can run into drainage problems. This is why urinal installation should always be done by a licensed plumber.
Can a Home Urinal Cause Plumbing Problems?
It can if it’s installed poorly or not maintained. Some common problems include:
- Bad Smells: This often happens when the trap dries out or the drain is not connected properly.
- Slow Draining: Build-up inside the waste line can slow things down over time.
- Leaks: Loose fittings or poor seals can lead to leaks behind walls or around the base.
- Blockages: Even though urinals are less likely to block than toilets, they can still clog if waste lines are too small or poorly installed.
When Should You Call a Plumber?
Call a licensed plumber if:
- you want to install a urinal in an existing bathroom
- you are not sure if your drainage can handle it
- there are no nearby water or waste pipes
- you notice bad smells after installation
- the urinal drains slowly
- there are leaks around the fixture
At Neighbourhood Plumbing, we help homeowners across Melbourne with bathroom plumbing upgrades, fixture installations, drainage changes, and blocked waste pipes.
If you’re thinking about adding a urinal at home, it’s worth getting proper advice before starting.
FAQs About Having a Urinal in a House
Is it legal to have a urinal in a house in Australia?
Yes, as long as it is installed to Australian plumbing standards.
Do home urinals save water?
They can. Some use less water than toilets, and waterless models use none at all.
Do urinals smell more than toilets?
Not if they are installed and cleaned properly. Bad smells usually point to drainage or maintenance issues.
Is a urinal cheaper than a toilet?
Not always. Installation costs can be similar or even higher depending on the plumbing work needed.
Can I install a urinal myself?
It’s not recommended. Plumbing work in Australia should be done by a licensed plumber.
Conclusion
Putting a urinal in your home bathroom is possible, and for some households, it can be a practical choice. But it’s not something to rush into.
Space, plumbing, drainage, cleaning, and long-term use all matter.
In some homes, it can be a handy extra fixture. In others, it may create more hassle than it’s worth.
If you’re thinking about installing a urinal in your bathroom, Neighbourhood Plumbing can help.
We assist homeowners across Melbourne with bathroom plumbing, fixture installations, drainage upgrades, and general plumbing repairs.
Neighbourhood Plumbing works with homeowners across Sunbury, Werribee, Balwyn, Campbellfield and Richmond for bathroom plumbing, drainage solutions, and fixture installations.
If you’re considering a bathroom upgrade, speak with our team before starting any plumbing work.
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
