Planning a bathroom renovation in Sydney? Whether it’s a compact ensuite or a luxury upgrade, the process can be complex but it doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right plan and a trusted team, you can avoid budget blowouts, compliance issues, and design regrets.
This guide breaks down each stage of the renovation journey for Sydney homeowners. Covering renovation types, budgeting, regulations, timeline, inspections, and maintenance. It’s written to educate and empower, especially if you’ve never tackled a bathroom renovation before.
1. Know Your Bathroom Type (And Why It Matters)
Every renovation starts with understanding your space and its function. Sydney homeowners typically fall into one of these categories:
- Ensuite Bathroom: A compact, attached bathroom that demands efficient design and privacy-focused layouts.
- Luxury Bathroom: Think spa-inspired finishes, underfloor heating, natural stone, and premium fittings.
- Small Bathroom: Often found in inner-city terraces or apartments. Maximising usability through layout tweaks is key.
- Accessible Bathroom: Designed to comply with AS 1428.1, with features like barrier-free showers, support rails, and easy-reach fittings.
The type of bathroom you’re renovating directly influences layout options, materials, costs, and approval requirements.
2. Budgeting: What a Renovation Really Costs in Sydney
Costs vary depending on scope, location, and build quality. According to the HIA and Houzz, here’s what to expect:
- Standard renovation: $18,000 – $30,000
- Luxury upgrade: $35,000 – $50,000+
- Cosmetic refresh only: from $12,000 (e.g. retiling and new fixtures)
Key cost drivers include:
- Moving plumbing or reconfiguring layout
- Tiling area and type (mosaic, stone, etc.)
- Waterproofing and subfloor repair
- Joinery, mirrors, shower screens, custom vanities
Tip: Always include a 10–15% buffer for unexpected cost.
3. Site Assessment and Expert Consultation
Start with a professional inspection. This helps:
- Identify structural issues or hidden water damage
- Review existing plumbing and electrical setup
- Confirm feasibility of layout changes
At this stage, it’s important to consult a professional who can provide layout suggestions, material advice, and guide you through compliance especially if you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Sydney.
4. Design and Material Planning
Smart material choices can make or break your renovation. In Sydney’s humid conditions, focus on durability, functionality, and timeless design.
Key decisions to make:
- Tiles: Use porcelain or vitrified tiles for walls and floors. Choose P4–P5 slip-rated tiles in wet zones.
- Storage: Use wall-mounted vanities or recessed niches to reduce visual bulk.
- Tapware: Opt for WELS-rated fittings to stay water efficient.
- Lighting: Layered lighting (task, ambient, accent) improves mood and safety.
Need help deciding on finishes? Our expert tile selection guide for Sydney homeowners walks you through the best materials, slip ratings, and styles for local conditions.
5. Approvals, Insurance, and Compliance (NSW Specific)
Regulations vary depending on your property type. Here’s what Sydney homeowners need to know:
- Strata approval: Required for all apartments or townhouses
- Council approval: Needed for heritage buildings or layout/structure changes. For an in-depth breakdown of rules and exceptions, see our blog on council approval for bathroom renovations.
- HBCF insurance: Mandatory for jobs over $20,000 — your builder must provide this
- Licensing: Only licensed professionals can perform waterproofing, plumbing, or electrical work
6. Demolition, Rough-Ins, and Waterproofing
This is the most technical phase of the project.
- Demolition: Safely remove fixtures, tiles, and cabinetry. If your home is pre-1990, arrange asbestos testing first.
- Plumbing & Electrical Rough-Ins: All pipework, drains, power and light points are repositioned.
- Waterproofing: Done by a licensed waterproofer per AS 3740:
- 1800mm up shower walls
- 150mm up all perimeter walls
- Full sealing of floor junctions and drainage points
For a detailed breakdown of what’s involved and how to stay compliant, see our guide to bathroom waterproofing in Sydney.
7. Tiling, Painting, and Fit-Off
Once the room is sealed and prepped:
- Tiles are installed over waterproofed surfaces
- Walls and ceiling are painted (if applicable)
- Final fittings installed: toilet, vanity, mirror, towel rails, tapware
- Custom shower screens are installed and sealed
This stage takes 3–6 days depending on size and complexity.
8. Final Inspection, Certification, and Handover
Your renovation isn’t finished until the paperwork is. Expect:
- Waterproofing certificate
- Plumbing and electrical compliance forms
- Product warranties
- Care and maintenance instructions
Do a walk-through with your builder to check alignment, drainage, sealing, and finishes. Wondering how long this handover phase takes or when to expect trades to finish up? Visit our guide: How long does a bathroom renovation in Sydney really take?
9. Aftercare: Keeping Your Renovated Bathroom Looking New
- Use non-acidic cleaners to protect grout and sealants
- Ensure ventilation is adequate to prevent mould growth
- Re-silicone high-moisture joints every 2–3 years
- Register your warranties and track inspection dates
Common Questions
How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Sydney?
Costs start at $18,000 and can exceed $50,000 depending on layout, plumbing, and materials used.
Do I need council approval for a bathroom renovation in NSW?
Only if you’re altering structural elements or living in a heritage-listed or strata property.
What licences are required for bathroom renovation trades?
Waterproofing, plumbing, and electrical must be done by NSW-licensed contractors with compliance certificates issued.
What’s the typical renovation timeline?
Most projects take 3–4 weeks. Complex or high-end designs can take 5–6 weeks.
What should I receive at handover?
All compliance documents, waterproofing and plumbing certificates, warranty details, and maintenance instructions.
Key Takeaways
- Know your renovation category: ensuite, luxury, small, or accessible
- Budget realistically: $18K–$30K for standard, $35K+ for high-end
- Always check NSW licensing and compliance rules
- Use climate-appropriate, water-resistant materials
- Get everything documented at handover (certificates, warranties, care guides)
Expert Help from Design to Completion
Whether you’re freshening up a compact ensuite or transforming your entire bathroom layout, a well-planned renovation can significantly boost comfort, value, and functionality in your Sydney home. This guide has outlined every step from approvals to final sealants giving you the clarity to move forward.
We’re your one-stop shop for stunning kitchen and bathroom renovations in Sydney. At Empire Tiles, we specialise in crafting luxurious spaces that blend style, functionality, and timeless elegance. Whether you’re after a spa-like retreat or a smart layout upgrade, our expert team delivers custom designs, premium materials, and flawless craftsmanship all under one roof. Explore our Sydney renovations to get started today.
Sources
- Houzz Australia Bathroom Trends Report : www.houzz.com.au
- HIA Renovations & Additions Market Report
- NSW Fair Trading: https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/
- Standards Australia: https://www.standards.org.au/
