WRAS Approved Kitchen Taps

WRAS approval settles an argument you didn't start. A landlord's compliance file, a new build specification, or a plumber signing off a mains-fed installation each want the same proof: that a tap's materials and design have been independently tested against the water fittings regulations, not simply described as safe by whoever made it. Most domestic kitchens never need to produce that proof, and that's exactly why this range exists for the ones that do.

What WRAS approval actually means

WRAS approval means a tap's materials and design have been independently tested against the water fittings regulations and listed by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme. It's granted to a specific product rather than a whole range, so one approved model from a maker doesn't put the rest of their catalogue on the list too. Established manufacturers build to the same regulations across their range whether or not each individual model has gone through testing, so the absence of approval doesn't by itself mark a tap as worse. It just means nobody's paid to have it checked.

Who needs it

Four situations settle the question outright. Letting the property puts a landlord's compliance file in your hands, and approval is the easiest evidence to hand over. Fitting a new build or working to a written specification usually makes it a stated requirement rather than a preference. Commercial premises expect it as standard. And if your installer or water supplier has asked for it directly, the decision's already been made for you.

Outside those four, approval is reassurance rather than a requirement, and choosing well from an established maker matters more than the certificate ever will. That's not a reason to look past this range if none of the four apply to you: it simply means you're buying extra peace of mind on top of a tap you'd have been happy with anyway.

Approved and compliant aren't the same thing

This is the distinction worth carrying into a shortlist. Approved means tested and listed. Compliant usually means the manufacturer states the product meets the requirements, without independent testing behind the statement.

Both phrases appear in product copy across the industry, sometimes used interchangeably, and the difference is easy to miss when they sit side by side. If approval genuinely matters for your installation, check the official WRAS approvals directory for the exact model reference rather than relying on how a listing is worded. Approvals also run for a limited period rather than lasting indefinitely, so a claim printed on older packaging is worth confirming against a live entry.

Shopping the range

Every product listed here already carries WRAS approval, which is the point of browsing it rather than filtering a wider one yourself. If you're specifying a Zip HydroTap installation specifically, the Zip WRAS approved range covers that ground directly, since a large-scale installation often asks for the assurance in writing. For everything else, the full kitchen taps range sits alongside this one, with finish and function to choose from once approval's settled.

Why shop with The Tap Collection

Every order includes free mainland UK delivery and the full manufacturer warranty, and you can spread the cost with Klarna or PayPal Pay in 3 at checkout. Our UK based team is happy to help with finish matching advice and compatibility questions: email info@thetapcollection.co.uk or send us a message through our contact form. We are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and aim to reply within 24 hours on working days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a WRAS approved tap?

A WRAS approved tap has had its materials and design independently tested against the water fittings regulations, then listed by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme. The testing checks whether the parts touching water are safe and whether the design could let contamination back into the supply. Approval applies to the specific product, not the whole brand, so it's worth checking the model rather than assuming a whole range is covered.

Is WRAS approval a legal requirement?

No, but complying with the water fittings regulations is, and approval's one recognised way to show a tap meets them rather than the only one. Because it's documented and easy to verify, many installers, landlords and specifiers ask for it as standard practice. If you're unsure whether it applies to your installation, your installer or water supplier can confirm what's required.

What is the difference between WRAS approved and WRAS compliant?

Approved means a product has been tested and appears on the official listing. Compliant usually means only that the manufacturer states it meets the requirements, without independent testing behind that claim. Both terms turn up in product descriptions, often used loosely, so if approval genuinely matters for your installation, look for the listing rather than trusting the wording alone.

Do I need a WRAS approved tap for my own home?

For most domestic kitchens, no, and buying from an established maker matters more than the certificate. Approval becomes the deciding factor if you're letting the property, fitting a new build, working to a specification, or if your installer or water supplier has asked for it. Outside those cases, treat it as reassurance rather than a requirement.

How can I check whether a tap is WRAS approved?

Search the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme's own directory by manufacturer or product name, since it's the authoritative source rather than any retailer listing. Approval is recorded against specific model references, so confirm the exact model you're buying rather than assuming the whole range shares the same status. That's the safest check before it goes in your basket.

Does WRAS approval expire?

Yes, approvals run for a limited period rather than lasting indefinitely. That means a tap can be genuinely approved today and lapse later if the manufacturer doesn't renew it, so a claim printed on old packaging isn't proof of current status. Check the official directory for a live entry before relying on it.

Do you offer free delivery?

Yes, we offer free mainland UK delivery on all orders.

Orders are processed within 24 hours (Monday to Friday) and typically arrive within 1–4 business days. Please note that offshore regions and the Scottish Highlands may incur additional charges.

Do you offer finance or payment plans?

Yes, we do, we offer Klarna and PayPal Pay in 3 at checkout, allowing you to split your purchase into three interest-free payments with no fees, subject to approval.

Do you offer bulk or wholesale orders?

Yes, we can accommodate bulk and wholesale orders for selected products and projects.

If you’re purchasing multiple items for a trade, commercial, renovation or development project, please request a quote with the products and quantities you require.

Depending on the order size and brand, we may be able to offer tailored pricing, lead-time information and product recommendations.