How much does a greywater system cost?

There are two types of greywater reuse systems, a Greywater Diversion Device (GDD) and a Greywater Treatment System (GTS). Both systems vary considerably in prices so it’s important to familiarise yourself with each system, check out our detailed post on what you need to know about reusing greywater before you get started.

The following table provides estimated costs for supply and installation of greywater reuse systems for a typical household.

Type	GDD	GTS
System	$750 – $2,500	$8,000 – $10,000
System installation	$250 – $1,000	$1,500 – $4,000
Dripline installation (40cm – 50cm)	$750 – $1,000	n/a
Retrofit plumbing works (1-2 fixtures)	$400 – $1,000	$400 – $2,000
Greywater-ready plumbing (laundry only)	$200 – $500	$750 – $1,500
Greywater-ready plumbing (whole house)	$750 – $1,500	$750 – $1,500
Local government application fees	$240	$240
Consultant fees for site assessment and application submission to Council with plans (optional)	$100 – $500	$100 – $500

Costs can vary between products, here is a list of things to look out for when you are shopping around:

Type of greywater system: If you’re simply after a system to irrigate the garden and lawns then opt for the cheaper option, a Greywater Diversion Device (GDD). If you plan to reuse greywater in the household, you will need a Greywater Treatment System (GTS) to ensure greywater can be used after high quality treatment.
Greywater-ready plumbing: Building a new house but not sure if you want to install a greywater system? Speak with your builder about installing greywater-reading plumbing to allow for the future connection of a greywater system. This installation allows for the consideration of the greywater system unit location, power supply, irrigation top-up water source location and any routing of greywater irrigation. You can have savings of up to 50% in installation costs compared to retrofit plumbing works and minimise any site disturbance for future installations.
Greywater treatment systems: Review reuse methods that the system has been approved for and if this suits your requirements for domestic use e.g. toilet flushing, cold water supply to washing machines,
Approved greywater system: A GDD or GTS must be approved by the Department of Health. A current list of approved greywater systems in Western Australia can be found on the Department of Health website.
Pump and pressure line requirements: In addition to the greywater system, additional fixtures like a pump may be required where the system is located uphill from the house. This will depend on site-specific factors. Find out if your property is suitable for greywater reuse.
Site plans: Take note of the size of the greywater system and irrigation area. This will help you to determine the best location for installation whilst achieving all setback distances. At a fee, a consultant, like an experienced greywater installer, may assist you with preparing the plans, carrying out a site assessment and submitting the application to Council on your behalf. This is optional, as a homeowner you can lodge the application yourself.
Maintenance program: Ongoing maintenance at set frequencies is required for greywater systems. It is best to enquire about these costs before purchasing a greywater system. At a minimum, costs will be involved for the following:
- GDD: replacement of filter and sensor probe;
- GTS: annual inspection by a service person and maintenance of the disinfection unit (e.g. replacing chlorine).