The Ultimate Bathroom Renovation Guide for Aussie Homeowners

bathroom renovation guide

Planning a bathroom renovation can feel overwhelming. Between setting a budget, picking tiles, and choosing the right trades, it’s easy to get lost in the details. But done right, a bathroom renovation doesn’t just freshen up your space — it adds comfort, style, and real value to your home.

This bathroom renovation guide walks you through the key steps so you can make confident decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and get the result you’re after.

Step 1: Set a Realistic Budget

The first step is knowing what you’re working with financially. In Australia, most bathroom renovations cost between $15,000 and $30,000, depending on factors like size, complexity, and finish level.

Here’s what affects your budget:

  • Changing the layout (especially moving plumbing)
  • Custom cabinetry or designer finishes
  • Waterproofing and compliance work
  • Labour costs

A smart move is to allow a 10–15% buffer for unexpected costs. Whether it’s water damage under the tiles or an electrical upgrade, a little extra room can save you stress.

Set a Realistic Budget

If you’re just getting started, check out this article on how to budget for a bathroom renovation. It covers common hidden costs and tips for managing your spend.

Step 2: Define Your Goals and Needs

Ask yourself: what do you want from this renovation?

  • Is your goal to increase resale value?
  • Are you upgrading for growing family needs?
  • Do you want a luxurious spa-style retreat?

Clarity on your goals will help guide every decision — from layout to lighting. If you’re renovating for accessibility or ageing-in-place, make sure to factor that into your early planning.

Step 3: Choose the Right Layout

Changing the bathroom layout can offer big functional benefits — but it’s also one of the costliest parts of a renovation. If your current layout works, sticking with it can keep costs lower. But if not, a smart redesign can make a small bathroom feel much larger.

Tips for planning your layout:

  • Keep major plumbing in place where possible
  • Ensure doors don’t swing into vanities or showers
  • Use wall-hung vanities to open up floor space
  • Install niches in showers to save on shelf clutter

Need some inspiration? This guide on must-know bathroom renovation ideas offers great tips to avoid layout mistakes that cost time and money.

Step 4: Select Materials and Finishes

This is where your style starts to show. Choosing finishes doesn’t have to be expensive — it just needs to be smart.

Things to look for:

  • Tiles: Porcelain and ceramic are affordable, low-maintenance, and durable.
  • Vanities: Wall-hung or floating vanities keep the space open.
  • Tapware and Fixtures: Matte black and brushed nickel are popular and timeless.
  • Water efficiency: Look for high WELS ratings to reduce water use.

When it comes to tiling, larger format tiles are great for small bathrooms — fewer grout lines mean a cleaner look and easier maintenance.

Step 5: Hire the Right Professionals

A proper bathroom renovation involves plumbing, waterproofing, electrical, tiling, and carpentry — it’s not a job for a single tradie or DIY project.

Here’s how to choose the right team:

  • Always check licences and insurance
  • Review portfolios of past work
  • Ask for itemised quotes and timelines
  • Ensure your contractor manages compliance

Working with experienced professionals means fewer delays and better results. If you’re looking for a trusted team, you can learn more about us here.

Step 6: Plan the Renovation Timeline

A standard bathroom renovation takes around 3–4 weeks, though it can vary. Planning ahead helps keep things smooth.

Sample timeline:

  • Week 1: Demolition, rough-in plumbing and electrical
  • Week 2: Waterproofing and sheeting
  • Week 3: Tiling and cabinetry install
  • Week 4: Fit-off, painting, and final clean-up

If your home has only one bathroom, consider temporary arrangements like a portable bathroom or staying elsewhere during key stages.

Step 7: Prepare for Final Inspections and Clean Up

Before signing off on your renovation, make sure everything is up to standard. That includes:

  • Fixtures installed and functioning
  • Clean tile work and silicone seals
  • Waterproofing certificates provided
  • Final touch-ups completed

Also, keep all warranty and compliance documents. You’ll need these if anything needs repair or for future resale.

Bonus Tips to Maximise Your Bathroom’s Value

Want to stretch your renovation dollar even further? Here are some smart upgrades:

  • Wall niches in showers add storage without taking up space
  • Heated towel rails for comfort and function
  • Underfloor heating for winter warmth
  • LED lighting for energy efficiency
  • Touchless taps for hygiene and water savings

These extras offer real lifestyle benefits and may increase the resale appeal of your home down the track.

Ready to Renovate? Let’s Talk

A successful bathroom renovation is all about planning, knowing your needs, and hiring the right team. Whether you’re going for a modern update or a full transformation, a professional approach will save you time, money, and frustration.

Ready to Renovate

👉 Book a free consultation now to get expert advice and a custom quote based on your space, budget, and goals.

Bathroom Renovations in Mornington, VIC

We proudly offer expert bathroom renovation services across Mornington and the Mornington Peninsula. From coastal homes to suburban properties, we bring trusted workmanship and personalised service to every renovation.

At Bathroom Renovations Mornington, our experienced team is committed to delivering high-quality results, on time and within budget. We handle every stage of the project — from planning and demolition to installation and compliance — so you can relax and enjoy your upgraded space.

Explore our full range of bathroom renovation services to see how we can help.

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