Plenty of London homes have small outdoor spaces: a courtyard behind a terrace, a patio off a kitchen extension, a front garden with bins and bikes. An outside tap can be just as useful in these spaces, as long as it is placed and protected properly.
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Courtyards and side returns
Terraced houses often have a narrow side return beside the kitchen. That makes it ideal for an outside tap, because the kitchen’s cold-water pipe is usually just inside the wall, keeping the pipe run short and the job quick.
Front gardens
A tap at the front is handy for washing cars, bins and steps. The pipe may need to run further, from a downstairs toilet or kitchen, so the route matters. Make sure it is lagged and easy to isolate.
Patios with kitchen extensions
Modern extensions often have bi-fold doors and patios. Pipework may run under the extension floor, so it is worth planning the tap position before any final flooring goes down.
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Ground-floor flats
Outside taps are often possible for ground-floor flats with gardens, but check your lease, because external walls usually belong to the freeholder and permission may be needed.
Balconies
Balcony taps are less common and depend on the building, drainage and freeholder permission. A plumber can assess what is possible.
Small-space tips
- Choose a compact tap with a built-in double check valve
- Use a wall-mounted hose reel to save space
- Fit an isolation valve inside so you can drain it for winter
- Consider a lockable tap if the space is accessible from the street
Frequently asked questions
Can an outside tap be fitted to a rendered wall?
Yes. The hole is drilled and sealed so the render stays watertight.
Is a lockable outside tap worth it?
For front gardens and shared spaces, it can stop unwanted use.
How far can the pipe run?
A plumber will suggest the shortest practical route from a suitable cold-water pipe.
