What is a Fittings, Fixtures & HWU Supplier?

A Fittings, Fixtures and Hot Water Unit (HWU) Supplier provides the bulk of your internal plumbing and bathroom hardware — including tapware, toilets, sinks, shower heads, mixers, and your hot water system. They may be a large plumbing merchant, a bathroom/kitchen supplier, or a specialist in appliances and energy solutions.



This package is generally ordered in one go during rough-in stage, but actual delivery may be split into rough-in items (for plumbing install) and fit-off items (installed at the end of the build).

What does a Fittings, Fixtures & HWU Supplier do?

Your supplier will complete works according to your agreed scope of supply.


Typically, they will:

  • Help specify compatible plumbing fixtures and tapware based on your rough-in layout
  • Quote supply of all internal plumbing fixtures and fittings
  • Recommend a suitable hot water system (gas, electric, solar, heat pump)
  • Deliver to site in one or two stages as needed (rough-in + fit-off)
  • Provide spec sheets and warranty documentation for each item


Some may also offer showroom consults or package pricing if you're sourcing all from one supplier.

Tip: Lock In Tapware and HWU Details Before Rough-In

Don’t leave your tapware selection to the last minute — different mixers require different wall depths or pipe spacing. Your plumber can’t rough it in without knowing what’s being installed.


And when comparing HWUs, look for capacity, energy efficiency, and how it will be mounted — ground, wall, or internal cupboard?

What to look for in a Fittings, Fixtures & HWU Supplier

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Brand, model, finish, and quantity clearly listed for each item
  • Confirmation of compliance with Australian Standards and WELS ratings
  • Delivery plan (one drop, or staged delivery)
  • Compatible HWU for your energy source and plumbing layout
  • Willingness to coordinate specs with your plumber


It’s helpful if they provide a consolidated schedule that your plumber can work from directly.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from suppliers, you’ll need:

  • Room-by-room list of what’s required (e.g. kitchen mixer, wall basin set, dual flush toilet)
  • Plumbing layout or rough-in diagram (if available)
  • Your preferred tapware style and finish (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, etc.)
  • Site address and timeline for delivery
  • Whether HWU will be electric, gas, or solar boosted

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need to know the exact model of HWU before rough-in?

    Yes — each model has different pipe spacing, clearance, and mounting requirements. Confirm your unit before your plumber starts.

  • Can I do two separate deliveries (rough-in now, fit-off later)?

    Absolutely. Just make sure your quote reflects this, and the plumber knows when the fit-off gear is coming.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.