At BP Building Concepts, we know the value of a great bathroom can’t be understated. Whether in frequent use by one, two or ten people, it’s a functional space that bookmarks our days with showering and bathing routines, while also providing a haven for relaxation and self-care.
A great bathroom renovation can not only do wonders for that specific space, but also enhance the look and feel of your entire home. But there’s a lot to consider with the process, from your preferred design and aesthetics to the labour involved, and crucially – the overall cost.
Let’s delve into the spectrum of costs your renovation may involve, as well as estimated timeframes and key variables to consider.
For personalised advice, contact our team at BP Building Concepts today.
How Much Does It Cost To Renovate a Bathroom in Australia?
According to 2023 data from the Housing Industry Association of Australia (HIA), the average bathroom renovation in Australia costs $26,000. However the range of potential costs below or above this average can vary considerably.
HiPages, an Australian marketplace connecting tradies to homeowners and businesses, estimates the potential range as anywhere from $8,000 to $35,000. Other industry experts put the lowest figure at $2,000 (for a few small changes), and the high end of the range at $45,000 or more.
Below are the three main pricing levels and the estimated range of costs. The final figure will depend on a range of factors, including the size of the bathroom and the costs of materials, labour and permits.
Low-Range Bathroom Renovation
Estimated cost: $5,000 to $15,000
A budget bathroom renovation is often just a minor facelift, involving small cosmetic changes rather than alterations to the main fixtures.
Some of the most common changes include:
- New accessories or hardware, like tapware, door and cupboard handles, toilet roll holders, or shower heads and curtains
- New paint for the tiles, walls or bathtub
- New bathroom vanity or shaving cabinet
- New lighting, including heat lamps or LED lights.
Mid-Range Bathroom Renovation
Estimated cost: $15,000 to $35,000
A step-up from its budget counterpart, this mid-tier renovation may involve changes to the overall structure and layout of the room. It’s also an opportunity to invest in higher-quality materials and fittings.
Some of the most common changes include:
- New tiles – including ceramic over porcelain tiles, or a tile feature wall
- New shower screens, either frameless or semi-frameless
- Larger and more contemporary showers, including double and walk-in showers
- A freestanding bathtub
- Energy-efficient lighting fixtures
- New heating solutions, like underfloor heating.
Premium Bathroom Renovation
Estimated cost: $35,000 to $45,000+
A price point of roughly $40,000 or more will allow you to undertake a full-scale renovation, with major layout changes and demolition work, products from luxury brands, and a larger team of professionals.
Some of the most common changes include:
- Design work for a bespoke bathroom, potentially with architects or interior designers involved
- Cabinetry and benchtops with custom designs and luxury materials
- High-end tiling options, including porcelain, stone or homemade tiles or elaborate feature walls
- High-end shower options and a freestanding bathtub
- High-end mood lighting and heating solutions, including built-in LED light strips, underfloor heating and heated towel rails.
Your Bathroom Renovation Budget: 6 Key Variables To Consider
In addition to the three basic price brackets above, there are a number of factors to consider while you’re in the initial planning stages.
The main variables to keep in mind will depend on how much of the work you are outsourcing, and how much complexity is involved. There may be tasks you can do yourself, like painting or demolition work. You may also be able to save by purchasing items made from more affordable materials.
Regardless of your budget, it’s likely costs for labour (including contractors, plumbers and electricians), upgrading or replacing key fixtures like the shower, and plumbing and tiling will be significant factors.
Let’s explore six of the largest costs and what you can expect.
Plumbing and Waterproofing
Plumbing and waterproofing are important factors to consider in any bathroom renovation. They both help in different ways to prevent excess moisture or leakage and to stop mould and structural damage.
The costs will vary depending on the level and complexity of the changes needed. A plumber will generally charge a call-out fee of $60-100 and an hourly rate between $100 to $150. On top of this, waterproofing can cost between $500 and $750 for an average-sized bathroom.
Tiling
Your tiling costs will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your bathroom, the price of labour, and the price of the actual tiles, which may range from inexpensive ceramic tiles to expensive natural stone.
Tilers will usually just quote for their labour, with the price of tiles not included. The ballpark figure for their work is $35 per square metre to $120 per square metre, with the average cost landing at around $60 per square metre.
Shower Screens
Some bathroom renovators install a completely new shower unit, which generally costs thousands of dollars. Another common option is to replace the shower screen. There are a range of options available, with the price dependent on the size of the screen and the thickness of the glass.
Excluding material costs, the installation of a basic framed shower screen will cost about $400, and a frameless screen will cost $600 or more.
Bathtub
If you also need a new bathtub, there are a wide range of options available, from the more affordable acrylic bathtubs to high-end cast iron, natural stone or fibreglass options.
Your new bathtub may range from about $500 up to thousands of dollars, with freestanding bathtubs at the more expensive end of the range. The installation cost will be $350 or more, with the final cost depending on the level of difficulty involved.
Toilet
If you are installing a new toilet, you can choose from a wide range of options, from floor-mounted to wall-hung models.
Toilets can cost between $150 and thousands of dollars, although a cost of $500 or under is a safe estimate. Installation prices will be charged on top of this, with the average price ranging from $400 to $1,000.
Vanity
Many bathroom renovations also involve the installation of a new vanity or other cabinetry. The price will depend on a range of factors, including the materials, size and whether it’s a premade or custom design.
The price for a vanity at the lower end of the range is about $300, as opposed to a custom-made vanity which is often $3,000 or more. There are also usually additional installation costs starting at $200.
How Long Does a Bathroom Renovation Generally Take?
Whether you are planning a budget-conscious refresh or a complete makeover, it’s best to set aside at least a few weeks.
A good ballpark for your bathroom renovation is between three and twelve weeks. A budget renovation may take as little as a month, whereas a luxury transformation may need this amount of time just for planning.
Below are some of the key steps that a bathroom renovation involves. Some of these steps can be undertaken independently, but most will involve the professional guidance and expertise of licensed experts.
Research, design and planning, including getting quotes from a range of professionals
- Applying for permits and permissions, including approvals from councils and strata committees
- Selecting brands, fixtures and materials
- Demolition and installation, from dismantling old fixtures to installing new plumbing, electrical wiring, carpentry and cosmetic touches.
Contact Us Today for a Free Quote on Your Bathroom Renovation
At BP Building Concepts, we know any sort of home renovation can be a daunting task. While it is possible to DIY some aspects of a bathroom makeover, it tends to be a smoother, safer and more satisfying operation with the close involvement of trained professionals.
Not sure how far your budget will get you? Still deciding on whether you want some new fittings – or an entirely new floor plan? Our construction team has the knowledge and expertise to answer your questions and help turn your dream bathroom into a reality.
If you’re based in Melbourne’s northern suburbs and would love to know more, please get in touch with us below.
