The Complete Guide to LADWP's Free Toilet Replacement Program
LADWP covers 100% of the cost to replace outdated toilets in multifamily buildings with ultra-high-efficiency models. No cost to you. No capital outlay. No hidden fees.
This guide covers who qualifies, how much you'll save, what the process looks like, and what property managers need to know before applying.
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What Is the LADWP Toilet Rebate Program?
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) funds a program that replaces outdated, high-flow toilets in apartment buildings with ultra-high-efficiency models — at zero cost to the property owner.
LADWP covers everything: the toilet, professional installation, new supply lines and hardware, and haul-away of old fixtures. No rebate paperwork where you pay first and wait for reimbursement. No capital outlay. The utility pays for the entire project.
Why does LADWP pay for this?
Los Angeles imports 85% of its water from hundreds of miles away. Toilets account for roughly 30% of indoor water use in multifamily buildings. For LADWP, funding toilet replacements is cheaper than building new water infrastructure or purchasing additional water rights.
The math works for the utility: replacing a single 3.5 GPF (gallons per flush) toilet with a 1.1 GPF model saves approximately 7,000 gallons per year per unit. Multiply that across thousands of apartments, and the conservation impact is massive.
What "no cost" actually means
This is not a traditional rebate where you purchase equipment and wait for reimbursement. LADWP directly funds the project through the SoCal WaterSmart platform. You don't purchase toilets, hire installers, or file for reimbursement. The entire project — from fixtures to labor to disposal — is covered.
Current status: The program is active for qualifying multifamily properties. Funding is allocated annually on a first-come, first-served basis. With LADWP sewer rates increasing through 2028, the savings value grows every month you wait.
LADWP Toilet Rebate Eligibility: Who Qualifies?
The primary program targets multifamily apartment buildings. Here are the specific requirements.
✓ You Likely Qualify If:
- Apartment building with 5+ units
- Current toilets are 1.6 GPF or higher
- Located within LADWP service territory
- Building owner or authorized manager
✗ Not Currently Eligible:
- Single-family homes (see alternatives below)
- Buildings with toilets already at 1.28 GPF or below
- Properties outside LADWP territory
- Buildings with fewer than 5 units
Understanding the GPF requirement
Many property owners think their buildings already have "low-flow" toilets. But 1.6 GPF models — which became the federal standard in 1994 — still use 45% more water per flush than today's ultra-high-efficiency 1.1 GPF models. If your building was built or last renovated before 2014, most toilets likely qualify.
Not sure what's in your building? Check the toilet tank. The GPF rating is stamped between the seat hinges. Or skip the detective work entirely — a free building inspection takes less than an hour and tells you exactly how many units qualify.
Condos, HOAs, and commercial properties
Condominium associations may qualify if the building meets the unit count threshold and the HOA authorizes the replacement. Commercial properties have a separate rebate structure — approximately $300 per toilet through the LADWP commercial program. Mixed-use buildings should contact an LADWP-approved provider to determine which program applies.
Prior participation
Buildings that previously participated may still qualify if units still have 1.6+ GPF toilets. If your building received replacements years ago but some units weren't included — or if turnover resulted in old fixtures returning — you can re-apply for the remaining eligible units.
Not sure if your building qualifies?
We'll tell you in one phone call. Schedule a free building assessment and get your exact eligibility, unit count, and savings projection.
Check Eligibility — FreeWater Bill Savings: What to Expect After Upgrading
The savings are significant — and they grow every year as LADWP sewer rates continue rising. Here's the math.
The water savings math
An average resident flushes approximately 5 times per day. Replacing a 3.5 GPF toilet with a 1.1 GPF model saves 2.4 gallons per flush — that's 12 gallons per person, per day. In a 2-person unit, that's 8,760 gallons saved per year.
Even replacing a 1.6 GPF toilet (the "low-flow" federal standard) with a 1.1 GPF model saves 2.5 gallons per flush, per person, per day — roughly 3,650 gallons per unit per year.
Savings by building size
| Building Size | Est. Annual Water Savings | Est. Annual Cost Savings | 5-Year Total Savings* | Added Property Value** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 units | 140,000+ gallons | ~$2,700 | ~$16,500 | ~$54,000 |
| 50 units | 350,000+ gallons | ~$6,500 | ~$40,000 | ~$130,000 |
| 100 units | 700,000+ gallons | ~$13,000 | ~$80,000 | ~$260,000 |
| 200 units | 1,400,000+ gallons | ~$26,000 | ~$160,000 | ~$520,000 |
*5-year projections account for scheduled LADWP sewer rate increases through 2028.
**Property value calculated at 5% cap rate: annual savings ÷ 0.05 = added value.
Why sewer rates make this urgent
LADWP sewer service charges are doubling by 2028 — from $5.80/HCF in 2024 to $11.96/HCF. A 100-unit building that does nothing will pay roughly $45,000 more per year in sewer costs alone by 2028. Reducing water usage before those rates hit is the single most effective way to contain operating costs.
The property value angle: Every $1 saved in annual operating expenses adds $20 in property value at a 5% cap rate. A 100-unit building saving $13,000/year = $260,000 in added property value. This is a free capital improvement that directly increases your building's sale price or refinancing position.
Hidden savings most owners miss
Water bills are just the headline number. Ultra-high-efficiency toilets also deliver:
- Reduced maintenance calls: Modern flush mechanisms have fewer moving parts and better performance
- Fewer clogs: Advanced flush technology moves waste more effectively than old 3.5 GPF models
- Tenant satisfaction: New fixtures are a tangible amenity improvement
- ESG/sustainability reporting: Measurable water conservation data for institutional owners
- EBEWE compliance: Better water benchmarking scores for buildings over 20,000 sq ft
What Toilets Does LADWP Provide?
Property managers worry about quality when they hear "no cost." Here's what's actually installed — and why these toilets outperform what's currently in most buildings.
WaterSense Certified
Every toilet carries the EPA WaterSense label — independently tested and verified to use at least 20% less water than standard models while meeting strict performance criteria.
Ultra-High-Efficiency
Rated at 1.1 GPF or lower — 31% more efficient than the 1.6 GPF "low-flow" standard and 69% more efficient than older 3.5 GPF models. Premium HET (high-efficiency toilet) classification.
MaP Tested Performance
MaP (Maximum Performance) testing verifies real-world flush performance. These models score 600g+ — meaning they flush better than old 3.5 GPF toilets, not worse. The "low-flow toilets don't work" myth is from the 1990s.
ADA compliance
ADA-compliant models (comfort-height, elongated bowl) are available for units that require them. The installation team identifies ADA requirements during the pre-inspection and provides appropriate models — no additional cost.
The quality question, answered
"Free" doesn't mean cheap. These are the same name-brand, WaterSense-certified models sold at plumbing supply distributors. LADWP specifies quality standards because every toilet that fails becomes a warranty issue for the utility. They have a direct incentive to install fixtures that perform.
How the Rebate Process Works: Step by Step
The entire process — from first call to finished installation — typically takes 3-4 weeks. Here's exactly what happens at each stage.
Step 1: Free consultation & building assessment
Call (310) 320-0611 or fill out the online form. Have this information ready:
- Building address
- Total number of units
- Approximate building age or last renovation
- Whether you're the owner or authorized property manager
You'll receive a preliminary eligibility assessment, estimated savings projection, and a scheduled date for the pre-inspection.
Step 2: Pre-inspection
An inspector visits your property to verify current toilet GPF ratings across units. They'll check the stamp between the seat hinges on a sample of toilets, count eligible units, note any ADA requirements, and assess plumbing compatibility (supply line sizes, flange condition, rough-in dimensions).
If some units don't qualify (already have efficient toilets), those are excluded. The rest move forward. You'll receive a final count of eligible units and the total savings projection.
Step 3: LADWP approval
The application is submitted through SoCal WaterSmart, LADWP's official rebate platform. Approval typically takes 5 business days.
What can cause delays: incomplete building information, buildings under ownership dispute, or high-volume application periods. Having accurate unit counts and clear ownership documentation accelerates the process.
Step 4: Installation
This is where 250,000+ installations of experience matters. Professional teams handle:
- Scheduling: Coordinated with property management to minimize disruption
- Tenant notice: 24-48 hours advance notice provided per California law
- Speed: 75 toilets per day. 20 minutes per unit. A 100-unit building is done in 1-2 days
- Hardware: New supply lines, wax rings, and mounting bolts — included
- Testing: Every toilet tested before the team leaves the unit
- Haul-away: Old toilets removed and recycled. Nothing left behind
Step 5: Post-inspection & sign-off
A final inspection verifies every installation meets LADWP program standards. You receive completion documentation for your records. Water savings begin immediately — you'll see the reduction reflected on your next billing cycle.
What you actually do: Sign one authorization form. That's it. We handle 100% of the process — eligibility verification, LADWP application, tenant coordination, installation, inspection, and documentation. One form from you. We do the rest.
Ready to see how many toilets qualify in your building?
Schedule a free building inspection. We'll tell you the exact unit count, estimated savings, and timeline.
Schedule Free InspectionWhat Property Managers Need to Know Before Applying
The most common reasons property managers hesitate — and the facts behind each concern.
It's funded by ratepayer conservation dollars. For LADWP, paying $300/toilet is cheaper than building new water infrastructure or purchasing additional imported water rights. The utility saves money by reducing demand — which is why they cover 100% of the cost. This is public utility economics, not a sales gimmick.
Tenants receive 24-48 hours advance notice. Each installation takes 20 minutes — less disruptive than routine maintenance. Tenants don't need to be home. Across 250,000+ installations, tenant cooperation is rarely an issue. New fixtures are a tangible upgrade most tenants appreciate.
A 100-unit building is completed in 1-2 days. 75 toilets per day, 20 minutes per unit. Professional crews coordinate through property management, work floor-by-floor, and leave each unit clean and functional. This isn't a weeks-long construction project.
Licensed, insured installation teams with hundreds of thousands of completed installs. New supply lines, wax rings, and mounting hardware are standard on every unit. Each toilet is tested before the team leaves. The risk of damage from professional installation is lower than the ongoing risk from aging fixtures and deteriorating components.
If your "low-flow" toilets are 1.6 GPF — the federal standard since 1994 — they still use 45% more water per flush than today's 1.1 GPF models. You likely still qualify. Only buildings with toilets already at 1.28 GPF or below are ineligible. Check the GPF stamp between the seat hinges.
Even when tenants pay the water bill, owners benefit 5 ways: (1) regulatory compliance with EBEWE, SB 407, and LA Plumbing Ordinance, (2) reduced maintenance calls and fewer plumbing issues, (3) lower tenant turnover — lower utility costs reduce effective rent and turnover costs $3K-$5K per unit, (4) higher property value from free fixtures worth $200-$400 per toilet, and (5) better water benchmarking scores.
How the LADWP Program Compares to Other LA Water Rebates
Several water conservation programs operate in the Los Angeles area. Here's how they compare — and when each applies.
| Program | Who Qualifies | What's Covered | Cost to Owner |
|---|---|---|---|
| LADWP Multifamily Toilet Replacement | 5+ unit apartments in LADWP territory | Toilet + installation + removal | $0 — fully covered |
| LADWP Residential Rebate | Single-family homes in LADWP territory | $250 rebate per toilet | You pay upfront, receive rebate |
| LADWP Commercial Rebate | Commercial properties in LADWP territory | $300 rebate per toilet | You pay upfront, receive rebate |
| MWD SoCal Toilet Rebate | Pre-1994 buildings in MWD territory | Rebate per qualifying toilet | Partial cost — varies by cycle |
| LADWP TAP Program | Large commercial/multifamily (custom) | $7/1,000 gallons saved, up to $2M | Performance-based rebate |
| LADWP Turf Replacement | Residential/commercial in LADWP territory | Lawn-to-landscape conversion | Rebate per sq ft |
Can you stack programs?
In some cases, yes. The LADWP TAP (Technical Assistance Program) can provide additional rebates based on measured water savings beyond the toilet replacement. A building qualifying for both programs can receive the free toilet replacement and performance-based TAP payments — up to $7 per 1,000 gallons saved, with project caps up to $2 million. This is the highest-value rebate combination in LADWP territory.
Outside LADWP territory?
If your building receives water from a different utility (LADBS, Glendale Water, Burbank Water), the LADWP program doesn't apply. However, the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) offers separate rebates through participating member agencies. Check with your local water provider or SoCal WaterSmart to find programs in your service area.
Frequently Asked Questions
LADWP covers 100% of the cost — toilets, installation, and old toilet removal. For commercial/multifamily properties, the program value is approximately $300 per toilet. For residential properties, approximately $250 per toilet. There is no cost to the property owner in the multifamily program.
Yes. The program is currently active for qualifying multifamily properties. Funding is allocated annually on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact an LADWP-approved installation provider to confirm current availability for your building.
Total timeline is typically 3-4 weeks from first contact to completed installation. Breakdown: pre-inspection (1-2 days), LADWP approval (~5 business days), installation scheduling (1-2 weeks), installation itself (1-3 days depending on building size). Each individual toilet takes approximately 20 minutes.
WaterSense-certified, MaP-tested ultra-high-efficiency toilets rated at 1.1 GPF or lower. Name-brand models that exceed EPA standards. These flush more effectively than older 1.6 GPF toilets thanks to advanced flush valve technology. ADA-compliant models available.
Tenants should be notified 24-48 hours in advance per California law, but they do not need to be present during installation. Each toilet takes approximately 20 minutes to replace — less disruptive than routine maintenance. Tenants return to a new, fully functional toilet.
Buildings typically see a 15-35% reduction in water usage. The range depends on current toilet GPF, occupancy, and usage patterns. A 100-unit building replacing 3.5 GPF toilets with 1.1 GPF models saves approximately 700,000 gallons and ~$13,000/year in water and sewer costs. With sewer rates doubling by 2028, the savings value increases annually.
The program provides WaterSense-certified models in standard white. Specific brand availability varies by program cycle. All models are name-brand, MaP-tested, and rated for commercial use. If you have specific requirements, discuss them during the consultation — options may be available depending on the program cycle.
Most "low-flow" toilets are 1.6 GPF — the federal standard since 1994. These still use 45% more water per flush than the 1.1 GPF ultra-high-efficiency models provided through the program. If your toilets are 1.6 GPF, you likely still qualify. Only toilets already at 1.28 GPF or below are ineligible.
Yes. LADWP covers 100% — including the new toilet, all installation hardware (supply lines, wax rings, mounting bolts), professional installation, and haul-away of old fixtures. There are no hidden costs. No additional plumbing charges. Everything is included.
Yes, the program can be phased. However, completing all eligible units at once is more efficient — it reduces coordination time, minimizes tenant disruption across multiple visits, and locks in current program availability before funding cycles change.
No fixed application deadline, but funding is allocated annually on a first-come, first-served basis. Program availability can change with each funding cycle. With LADWP sewer rates scheduled to double by 2028, every month of delay increases your operating costs. Earlier participation = more cumulative savings.
Single-family homes aren't currently eligible for the free replacement program. However, LADWP offers a $250 residential rebate per toilet through SoCal WaterSmart. The Metropolitan Water District (MWD) also offers rebates for pre-1994 homes. Both require homeowner purchase and application for reimbursement.
All installed toilets carry a manufacturer warranty. Professional installation teams test every unit before leaving — water supply, flush function, and leak check. If issues arise post-installation, contact the installation provider for warranty service. With 250,000+ installations, quality control processes are proven.
You need proof of building ownership or a property management authorization letter, your LADWP account number, and basic building information (address, unit count, building age). That's it. The installation provider handles all LADWP paperwork, rebate applications, and program documentation on your behalf.
Why 500+ Property Managers Trust Planet Optima
We've installed more LADWP rebate toilets than any other provider in Los Angeles. Here's what that means for your building.
Trusted by the largest property managers in LA
"Planet Optima has been a great partner. Their team is professional, efficient, and makes the entire process seamless for our property managers."
"We've used Planet Optima across multiple properties. The coordination, speed, and quality of work is consistently excellent. Our tenants appreciate the upgrades."
"Professional from start to finish. They handled everything — scheduling, tenant notices, installation — and completed our building ahead of schedule."
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Related Resources
Explore more guides, tools, and information about water conservation programs in Los Angeles.
Your Building Qualifies. The Program Covers Everything. What Are You Waiting For?
LADWP sewer rates are doubling by 2028. Every month you wait costs your building more. Schedule a free inspection and lock in your savings.
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