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Settle an argument- downstairs loo or not…?

362 replies

TheBeaTgoeson1 · 13/04/2026 11:58

Please help settle an argument…

Starting on a small renovation. One person thinks that a downstairs loo is important as part of the work, there is space for it.

The other doesn’t see that it adds attraction to a property, and there’s a nice bathroom with loo at the top of the stairs…

Those who have or haven’t got one, who is reasonable?

(It would bring the total of loos in the house to two.)

OP posts:
Kidsrold · 13/04/2026 15:19

I wouldn’t buy a house with no downstairs loo because I’d want one and couldn’t be bothered with putting one in.

ZanyMaker · 13/04/2026 15:18

Buyers of our last house said downstairs loo was one of the selling points to them because their elderly parents would struggle with the the stairs to get to the upstairs bathroom when visiting. So, yes, if it fits with the plans then do it!

Loobyloot · 13/04/2026 15:17

We have four loos for four people (we live in a house that comes with DHs job and are super grateful!). That's about the best you can get. Have as many as possible.

Apprentice26 · 13/04/2026 15:15

Apparently they add 2 to £5000 to the value of your property and new build. Houses are not allowed to not have one so if that’s the market that you might be competing within years to come.
Definitely worth having

IMustDoMoreExercise · 13/04/2026 15:10

I wouldn't buy a house without a downstairs loo.

Busybeemumm · 13/04/2026 15:04

I would consider adding a shower as well as a loo if you have the space.

Busybeemumm · 13/04/2026 15:04

Definitely yes to a downstairs loo. So handy for guests and in case someone in the family is unwell and unable to climb stairs etc. It's so handy to have a second loo and will add value to your home.

Brightanddrywithsunnyspells · 13/04/2026 15:04

YES!! to the downstairs loo. It will be used constantly, and will help you sell the house further down the line.

FirstWorldProblemSolver · 13/04/2026 15:02

What lunatic would omit the downstairs loo when there is

a) space for it
b) only one other toilet in the house

downstairs loos are the most basic of house commodities nowadays

MrsVBS · 13/04/2026 15:02

Oops pressed the wrong vote button, downstairs loo essential, madness not to if there is space for one.

Cornonthecob17 · 13/04/2026 15:02

Essential for me. My dad couldn’t spend a lot of time at my old house because he couldn’t get upstairs to the loo. It was also a nightmare with multiple kids and two adults all sharing one loo. Moved recently and refused to see anywhere without a downstairs loo. We have ended up in a house with four toilets and it’s bliss 🤣

puddycat1 · 13/04/2026 15:01

Yes downstairs loo

Musicmummy63 · 13/04/2026 14:59

We managed to squeeze a loo in the space under the stairs. I was convinced it was too small but our bathroom fitter said he could do it, and it's the best thing we could have done! So handy, and as we are getting older, it will more than likely be needed more. Do it!!!

Katie0909 · 13/04/2026 14:58

Definitely add a boot room and loo. Once you have a second loo, you will wonder how you managed without it! They are popular with buyers and helpful as relatives age. I'd say its a no brainer as you have the space.

Imalittleelf · 13/04/2026 14:58

We have 2 loos. For a short time we had to make do with just 1...it was hard work and I really noticed not having 2 and we are a family of 4.

Also helpful as our spare bed is downstairs so visitors can use it at night time without having to Come upstairs and disturb people sleeping.

ThatLilacTiger · 13/04/2026 14:57

I wouldn't even view a house with no downstairs toilet. The minimum is a full suite upstairs with shower over bath and a toilet and sink downstairs. It's a waste of money renovating a home and not adding this important feature in.

Travelfairy · 13/04/2026 14:54

Omg one of the most important things. Saves guests trekking through the house, handy if anyone visiting with reduced mobility or if anyone in house has an injury...also if kids and potty training, the list goes on and on! It absolutely does add value to a home btw!!! And pretty much top of most people's wish list or even non negotiables... I used to work in property sales...it absolutely 💯 is worth it.

Peonies12 · 13/04/2026 14:54

If you have space and you can afford it; I’d do it. We’ve never had one and never minded though. But some people are obsessed with it

milveycrohn · 13/04/2026 14:53

New houses are built with a toilet on each floor, so this is now an accepted standard.
I would put one in the downstairs as well.
We managed to put one in (standard 1930s 3 bed semi) in understairs cupboard, which made a huge difference. Yes, it was smallish, but very useable, especially if you have DC

godmum56 · 13/04/2026 14:53

TheBeaTgoeson1 · 13/04/2026 12:08

Period property. 3 bedrooms.

Space wouldn’t be used without doing loo. Will also include a boot room/ cloakroom.

I’m team loo!!!

team loo here.

Poppy61 · 13/04/2026 14:53

Downstairs loo is invaluable, especially if you have disabled/injured family members. Look to the future when deciding; you never know what it holds. I would never have a house without a downstairs loo. Its something buyers usually look for now.

LavendarLilac2 · 13/04/2026 14:52

Single best addition we have added to our home! Our bathroom is upstairs and I hated guests trawling up and down our stairs as they would inevitably have a good nosey whilst up there!

Also, had a builder around for the past week and not a single pee or poo in my lovely bathroom 😂

Autumngirl312 · 13/04/2026 14:50

Definitely 2 loos. We only have 1, and wish we had room for 2 😪

I'd love one downstairs so that I don't have to navigate the stairs when absolutely desperate!

Smoggy1 · 13/04/2026 14:48

I've only got one loo and we manage fine.. however, we've got a separate toilet and sink next to the bathroom (bath with shower and sink), so we can still use the loo when someone's in the shower, so it's not a biggy. But if I didn't have a separate loo, I would absolutely want a second one.

Chamallo · 13/04/2026 14:47

100% downstairs loo. DP was against it when we renovated, and now he admits I was right (victory!) Ours is only about 2.5m2, but it’s got toilet, sink, washing machine, boiler, laundry basket, tool box, medicine cabinet… You can fit loads in if you plan the layout right.

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