Why Bathroom Renovations Need a Checklist
Bathroom renovations involve multiple licensed trades working in a specific sequence. Skipping a step — like booking waterproofing before tiling — can cost thousands to fix. This checklist keeps every phase in order.
Step 1: Set Your Budget
A basic bathroom renovation in Australia starts at around $10,000–$15,000 for cosmetic changes and can reach $30,000+ for a full structural remodel. Always add 15–20% as a contingency buffer.
Pro tip: Budget for fixtures first, then work backwards to materials. Tapware and vanities have wide price ranges — set upper limits early.
Step 2: Planning and Design
- 1 Measure your bathroom accurately and draw a rough floor plan
- 2 Decide whether you want a cosmetic refresh or a full structural renovation
- 3 Collect inspiration photos from Pinterest or Houzz to communicate your style to tradies
- 4 Select your tiles, vanity, toilet, shower, bath (if including one), and tapware before booking trades
Step 3: Waterproofing — The Critical Step
In Australia, waterproofing in wet areas must be done by a licensed waterproofer and must comply with AS 3740. This step happens before tiling. Skipping or under-doing it is the #1 cause of building defects in Australian bathrooms.
⚠️ Watch out: Waterproofing must be done by a licensed professional — not a DIY job. Ensure they provide a certificate of compliance.
Step 4: Trade Sequence
- 1 Plumber: rough-in before waterproofing
- 2 Waterproofer: membrane applied and cured before tiling
- 3 Electrician: lighting, exhaust fan rough-in
- 4 Tiler: after waterproofing is fully cured
- 5 Plumber (return): final fit-off
- 6 Electrician (return): install fittings
Step 5: Final Checks
- 1 Vanity, mirror, and accessories installed after tiling
- 2 Silicone all wet area joints
- 3 Final clean and inspection
- 4 Check all fixtures for leaks
Pro tip: Take detailed 'before' photos for insurance and future reference.
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