Managing a rental property in the Vancouver Lower Mainland means dealing with constant wear and tear. One of the most common: and annoying: calls a landlord gets is about a leaky, dripping, or outdated kitchen faucet.
For many landlords, the default is to call a general plumber. You wait all day, pay a $150 "truck fee" just for them to show up, and then get hit with an hourly rate while they wander through a big-box store looking for parts. At The Faucet Guys, we think that’s a waste of your time and money.
We specialize exclusively in faucets. No toilets, no water heaters, no mystery bills. Just straightforward package pricing and expert installation. Whether you’re upgrading a suite in Kitsilano or fixing a leak in a Surrey townhouse, this guide will show you how to handle faucet replacement like a pro.
Step 1: Assess Your Sink Configuration
Before you even look at a catalog, you need to know what you’re working with. Vancouver condos often have specific hole configurations that dictate what kind of faucet you can install.
- Count the holes: Peek under the sink. Do you see one, two, three, or four holes in the sink or countertop?
- Check the "Spread": If you have multiple holes, measure the distance between the centers of the outer holes. A standard 3-hole kitchen sink usually has an 8-inch spread.
- Standardization is Key: For landlords, we recommend sticking to a single-handle faucet. They are easier for tenants to operate and have fewer internal parts to break compared to two-handle models.
Best for: Older Apartments – If your sink has three holes but you want a modern look, choose a model that includes a deck plate (escutcheon) to cover the unused holes.
Step 2: Select a High-Durability Faucet
Don't fall for the cheapest "special" at the hardware store. Those budget faucets often feature plastic internal components that fail within 2–3 years under heavy tenant use.
At The Faucet Guys, we’ve curated a selection of faucets specifically for their reliability and modern look. Our all-inclusive packages range from $325 to $525, which includes the faucet and the professional installation.
Popular Styles for Vancouver Rentals:
- Industrial Pull-Down: Sleek, high-arc design that makes rinsing large pots easy. Best for: Modern Renovations.
- Matte Black Modern: Hides fingerprints and water spots better than chrome. Best for: High-end rentals. (Read more about Matte Black vs. Brushed Nickel).
- Classic Chrome: The most cost-effective and timeless option. Best for: Budget-conscious upgrades.
Step 3: Prep for Success (The Landlord’s Checklist)
Installation day shouldn't be a disaster. If you are doing this yourself or hiring a specialist, follow these prep steps:
- Clear the Cabinet: Tell your tenants to empty the area under the sink. You can't work around 40 bottles of cleaning spray and a bag of old sponges.
- Check the Shut-Offs: Locate the hot and cold water valves. If they are old multi-turn valves, they might be seized. This is a common issue in older Lower Mainland buildings.
- Pressure Check: Vancouver water pressure can be notoriously high (up to 110 PSI in some areas). High pressure kills faucets. Consider having a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) checked if you find yourself replacing faucets every few years.
- The Strata Factor: If the property is a condo, ensure you comply with strata bylaws. Many buildings require a licensed and insured installer to perform any plumbing work to protect against flood liability. (Learn more about Condo Faucet Replacement).
Step 4: Perform the Installation
If you're DIY-ing, here is the basic workflow. If you value your Saturday, skip to the "The Professional Advantage" below.
- Water Off: Close the shut-off valves and open the faucet to drain any remaining water.
- Disconnect: Use a basin wrench to disconnect the supply lines. Have a bucket ready for the "drip."
- Remove Old Unit: Unscrew the mounting nuts from underneath and lift the old faucet out. Clean the sink surface thoroughly.
- Mount New Faucet: Feed the new supply lines through the hole. Align the faucet and tighten the mounting hardware from below. Pro tip: Ensure it’s centered before you do the final tighten.
- Connect & Flush: Attach the lines to the shut-off valves. Always use braided stainless steel supply lines: they are much more burst-resistant than old rubber or plastic lines.
The Professional Advantage
Why spend three hours under a cramped sink when you could spend zero? The Faucet Guys offer a "One-and-Done" service. We arrive with the faucet of your choice, remove the old one, install the new one, and haul away the trash.
Compared to general plumbers who charge by the hour, our package pricing means you know the exact cost before we even knock on the door. No "surprise" labor charges because your shut-off valve was a bit sticky. Check out why package pricing is better for landlords.
Step 5: Document and Hand Over
Once the water is running and the leaks are non-existent, do two things:
- Photograph the Model: Take a photo of the new faucet and the model number. Save it to your property folder. If a tenant breaks a handle in three years, you’ll know exactly which cartridge to buy.
- Tenant Briefing: Show the tenant how the pull-down sprayer works. Remind them not to use abrasive chemicals (like bleach) on finishes like matte black or gold.
Why Vancouver Landlords Choose The Faucet Guys
We aren't your typical plumbing company. We don't fix toilets, and we don't dig up sewer lines. We focus only on faucets.
By specializing, we’ve perfected the process. We carry the best-performing faucets for the Lower Mainland's specific water conditions and offer them at prices that beat the big guys. Our installers are fast, clean, and fully insured: which is exactly what you need to keep your strata council happy and your tenants satisfied.
Stop the drips and the high bills. Whether you need a bathroom faucet refresh or a heavy-duty kitchen upgrade, we have you covered.
Ready to upgrade your rental? Browse our Faucet Packages and book your installation in minutes.
