How to Move a Toilet That’s Too Close to the Wall

If your toilet feels cramped or sits awkwardly close to the wall, you're not alone. Sometimes, building contractors make mistakes. Poor placement is a common issue in bathroom layouts, but it's not always a full remodel situation. In many cases, moving a toilet just a few inches is possible with the right tools and technique, like using an offset toilet flange.

This guide breaks down how to move a toilet, when it’s DIY-friendly, and when it’s best to call in the pros.

Can You Move a Toilet Without a Full Bathroom Renovation?

Yes, in many cases, you can move a toilet without tearing up the whole bathroom. If you only need to shift the toilet a few inches forward, backward, or to the side, an offset toilet flange may do the trick. This small part adjusts the connection point between your toilet and the drain line, allowing for minor placement changes. It’s a common plumbing toilet repair you can do on your own if you feel comfortable.

What Is an Offset Toilet Flange and How Does It Work?

A toilet flange is the part that fits your toilet to the drain pipe in the floor. Standard toilet flanges sit directly on top of the drain pipe. However, an offset toilet flange sits to the side of the drain center, meaning you can shift the location of the toilet by up to 1-2 inches in any direction. This gives you a little flexibility when you’re dealing with tight spaces or misaligned plumbing.

How to Move a Toilet Using an Offset Flange

Here’s a step-by-step look at how to relocate a toilet using an offset flange. If you’re a confident DIYer, it’s doable, but don’t hesitate to call a professional if you're unsure at any stage.

1. Turn off the water supply and drain the toilet tank and bowl.
2. Disconnect the water supply line. If it looks worn or corroded, this is a good time to replace it.
3. Remove the toilet, being careful not to damage the porcelain, your flooring, or yourself. You’ll need to unscrew the bolts at the base and rock the toilet back and forth to break the seal. If you’re removing a commercial toilet, you may also have to disconnect it from the wall.
4. Remove the old flange and scrape off the old wax ring with a putty knife. Clean the area thoroughly.
5. Install the new offset flange. Dry-fit the offset flange to determine which direction you want the toilet to move, then secure it to the floor using screws.
6. Apply a new wax ring to the base of the toilet. Align the new mounting bolts into the slots on the offset flange.
7. Reinstall the toilet, making sure it sits level over the new flange. Apply even pressure to compress the wax ring and ensure a watertight seal. Tighten the bolts evenly, alternating sides to prevent cracking.
8. Reconnect the water line, turn the valve back on, and test for leaks.

How Hard Is It to Move a Toilet?

A slight adjustment using an offset flange is moderately difficult, but it’s manageable for an experienced DIYer. However, if you’re relocating the toilet more than a few inches (especially to a new wall), it becomes a major plumbing project. You’ll need to reroute the drain line and possibly cut into the slab — tasks that only an experienced plumber should handle.

If you’re going through the trouble of moving your toilet, make sure you know the signs you might need to replace it. After all, if your toilet is on its way out, this is a great time to choose a new model.

How Much Does It Cost to Move a Toilet?

The cost of moving a toilet in a bathroom varies widely based on how far it needs to go. A small repositioning of just a couple of inches will be much cheaper than a full relocation to a different part of the room. If your move involves cutting into concrete or rerouting plumbing through joists or walls, expect the cost to rise further.

When Should You Call a Professional Plumber to Move Your Toilet?

Not sure if you should move your toilet on your own? Here are a few signs it’s time to call a pro:

• You’re moving the toilet more than a few inches.
• The floor needs to be cut or rebuilt.
• You’re not comfortable disconnecting water or waste lines.
• The toilet is leaking or showing signs of damage.

A licensed plumber will ensure proper slope, venting, and sealing so you don’t end up with future leaks or drainage issues.

How to Reposition a Toilet With Professional Help

Moving a toilet doesn’t always mean tearing up the bathroom. With the right tools (like an offset flange) and some plumbing know-how, it’s possible to improve your bathroom layout without a full renovation.

Whether you’re simply shifting your toilet a few inches or planning a major bathroom upgrade, the licensed plumbers at Roto-Rooter can help. From toilet removal and flange installation to complete sewer line work, we’ll make sure everything flows in the right direction. Schedule your appointment today to see how we can help.