Bathroom Renovation: Where to Start?

This is the step most homeowners overlook — and it's the one that can derail an entire renovation budget if discovered mid-demolition.

In a real 2026 Brisbane bathroom renovation we analysed, asbestos removal and disposal (certified contractor, safe disposal) came to $2,271.50 including GST. This is now a line item we automatically include in cost estimates for pre-1990 homes on Reno Ready.

The most common mistake is calling builders before you know what you want. Without a design brief, you'll get wildly different quotes, spend weeks chasing tradespeople for clarifications, and likely end up with a bathroom that's “fine” rather than exactly what you envisioned.

Use Reno Ready to configure your tiles, vanity, tapware, and structural changes — then generate an AI preview. This becomes your design brief. Builders can quote faster and more accurately when they can see exactly what you want.

A standard Australian bathroom renovation (medium-sized, full strip-out) typically costs between $18,000 and $30,000 for quality finishes. Premium materials and structural changes push this higher.

The “surprises” budget is real — industry rule of thumb is 15–20% above your baseline estimate. Common culprits include waterproofing failures, rotted substrate behind tiles, and plumbing relocation that wasn't apparent until walls were opened.

In Australia, plumbing work must be carried out by a licensed plumber — this isn't optional. Moving plumbing fixtures (toilet, shower, basin) requires a plumbing permit in most states, which your contractor should organise.

Electrical work (new circuits, exhaust fans, heated towel rails) similarly requires a licensed electrician and certificate of compliance. Budget for these as separate line items — they're not usually included in a builder's base quote.

Never accept the first quote. Get at least three from licensed bathroom renovation specialists — not general builders. Specialist bathroom renovators carry appropriate waterproofing certifications and understand the tolerances required for wet areas.

When comparing quotes, ensure each covers: demolition, waterproofing (to AS 3740), tiling (floor and walls), plumbing and fixtures, electrical (exhaust fan, lighting), painting, and a completion certificate. A quote missing these line items is hiding costs.

A professional full-strip bathroom renovation takes 10–20 working days. Plan accordingly — organise access to another bathroom, communicate clearly with your contractor about staging, and don't schedule the renovation around immovable dates (holidays, guests staying).

The biggest delays come from: tile orders not arriving on time, plumbing inspections requiring re-booking, and waterproofing cure times (minimum 24–48 hours before tiling can begin). A good contractor will sequence these into the schedule — ask about this in your initial meeting.