Site Prep Checklist (Hot Tubs, Saunas & Cold Plunges)
Site Prep Checklist (Hot Tubs, Saunas & Cold Plunges)
Last updated: 1 February 2026
This checklist prevents the two classic high-ticket problems:
- “It arrived and we can’t get it into the garden.”
- “It’s here but we can’t power or install it.”
A) Measure access (do this before you buy)
Walk the full route from the road to the final location and check:
- Narrow gates and doorways (measure width)
- Steps (how many? how steep?)
- Tight corners or turns
- Gravel or soft ground (pallet trucks struggle)
- Slopes
- Overhead obstacles (trees, roof edges)
- Distance from the road to final position
If access is tight, email photos or video to help@steamandoak.co.uk before ordering.
B) Prepare the base (stable and level)
Hot tubs
- Stable, level, load-bearing base
- Consider weight when filled + people (very heavy)
- Avoid uneven decking unless engineered for the load
Saunas
- Stable, level base
- Drainage considerations if outdoors
- Allow airflow and service clearance
Cold plunge tubs
- Stable base
- Consider chiller airflow and noise placement
- Plan drainage for cleaning and refills
C) Electrical planning (UK)
Most large wellness equipment needs a dedicated electrical supply. Plan for:
- RCD protection
- Outdoor isolation switch
- Safe cable routing
- Installation by a qualified electrician
Do not rely on extension leads for permanent installations.
D) Water & drainage (where applicable)
- Nearby water source for filling and top-ups
- Drainage plan for water changes
- Avoid draining into unsuitable areas (local rules vary)
E) Delivery day checklist
- Someone on-site to receive delivery
- Access route fully cleared
- Pets and children kept away
- Camera ready for packaging condition photos
- Confirm kerbside drop location with driver
Next steps
Delivery & installation:
View delivery & installation guide
Hot tubs:
Shop hot tubs
Hot Tub Buying Guide (UK)
Saunas:
Shop saunas
Sauna Buying Guide (UK)
Cold plunge tubs:
Shop cold tubs
Cold Plunge Buying Guide (UK)
Buying guides hub:
View all buying guides
Need help planning? Contact us at help@steamandoak.co.uk or call 03330 1515 33.