How much does a bathroom renovation actually cost?
A bathroom renovation is one of the most cost-effective ways to add value to your home and ensure it works for your lifestyle. However, one of the first questions that Melbourne homeowners ask us when considering a bathroom renovation is ‘how much will it cost?’. This article aims to demystify that number for you.
What makes up the headline figure?
The cost of a bathroom renovation can vary greatly depending on the size of the bathroom, the quality of materials used and the complexity of the project. According to the Victorian Building Authority, the average cost of a bathroom renovation in Victoria ranges from $35,000 to $45,000. However, for a high-end renovation with premium materials and fixtures, the cost can exceed $60,000 (or more).
When planning a bathroom renovation, it is essential to have a clear idea of both your budget and what you want to achieve. This will help you to make informed decisions about the materials and fixtures you choose, and ensure that your project stays within budget.
To help you get a better idea of the cost of a bathroom renovation, let’s break down the different components and associated costs.
Design and planning
A detailed design and planning phase is essential to ensure that your bathroom renovation meets your needs and vision. During this phase, a designer or architect will work with you to create a layout and select materials and fixtures.
The cost of design and planning can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the level of detail required. For a basic design, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000. For a more complex design with 3D renderings and detailed plans, the cost can range from $5,000 to $10,000.
Materials and fixtures
The materials and fixtures you choose greatly impact the cost of your renovation. Here are some average costs for common bathroom materials and fixtures in Melbourne, Victoria in 2023:
- Shower: $1,500 to $3,000
- Bathtub: $1,500 to $4,000
- Toilet: $400 to $1,500
- Vanity: $1,000 to $3,000
- Flooring: $50 to $200 per square metre
- Wall tiles: $50 to $150 per square metre
- Paint: $30 to $50 per litre
- Lighting: $100 to $500
Labour and installation
The cost of labour and installation varies depending on the complexity of the project and the experience of the tradespeople involved. For a basic bathroom renovation, you can expect to pay between $15,000 and $210,000 for labour and installation. For a more complex renovation with custom features and premium materials, the cost can exceed $320,000 or more.
Permits and fees
In Victoria, a building permit is required for any renovation that involves structural changes or alterations to plumbing or electrical systems. The cost of a building permit can vary depending on the scope of the project, but you can expect to pay between $500 and $4,000.
Other fees that may be associated with a bathroom renovation include planning permit fees, plumbing and electrical inspection fees, and waste removal fees. These fees can add up quickly and should be factored into your budget.
Additional costs
There may be other costs associated with a bathroom renovation. For example, if your home is older, you may need to update the plumbing or electrical systems to meet current building codes. This can add significant costs to your renovation.
Similarly, if you have an older home, you may encounter unexpected issues during the renovation process that need to be addressed. It is essential to have a contingency fund in your budget to cover unexpected costs that may arise during the renovation.
Working with an experienced designer and builder also helps avoid nasty surprises – meaning you ideally won’t need to dip into that contingency fund at all!
Planning a bathroom renovation can be a daunting prospect: Expanse Builders are experts at guiding you through the process. From concept to completion, we ensure every detail is considered before we even start. We’ll help and determine the best options for your space and lifestyle for a fixed total cost – ensuring your bathroom is delivered on time and on budget.
