Bathroom renovation Melbourne is your fastest way to add value without blowing the budget. In this guide, you’ll see price bands, permits, timing, and the common mistakes to avoid. You can scale a bathroom renovation Melbourne matches your budget. Alternatively, pick a simple refresh or, if you want more, go for a luxury designer fit out.
Budget bands in Melbourne: under $10k, $10–20k, $20–35k
- For a Bathroom under $10k , ffocus on surface work: new taps and parts, fresh paint and minor tile touch-ups. As a rule, you won’t change the plumbing layout or take on major tiling.
- For a Bathroom renovation $10–20k: you get a full makeover for a smaller room. You’ll retile, install mid-range fittings, and make minor layout tweaks. Even so, the plumbing remains in its original position.
- Bathroom renovation $20–35k: Larger rooms, luxury finishes, custom joinery, moving walls or plumbing, full gut and rebuild. More flexibility in layout and selections.
| Budget Band | Typical Scope | Labour Share | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under $10k | Cosmetic changes (fixtures, paint) | 30% | 5–10 days |
| $10–20k | New tiles, fittings, minor layout changes | 35% | 10–15 days |
| $20–35k | Full gut, designer fittings, layout | 40% | 15–30 days |
What’s included at each level
- Under $10k: Paint, swap tapware, reface vanities, basic lighting.
- $10–20k: Re-tiling, updated shower, mid-range tapware, new toilet and vanity, basic waterproofing.
- $20–35k: Custom cabinetry, designer tiles, larger showers/tubs, stone benches, high-end plumbing, maybe underfloor heating.
Every band covers demolition, basic plumbing, rubbish removal, and a final clean. Premium brackets may add full waterproofing certificates, luxury tiles, and smart lighting.
Permits, waterproofing and compliance
- Bathroom Cosmetic works (replacing tiles/vanity) don’t require permits.
- Moving walls, changing plumbing, new wiring, or advanced waterproofing needs permits from council or a licensed building surveyor.
- Bathroom Renovation Costs: Building permit $500–$2,500, plumbing permit $50–$600, waterproofing included with pro install.
- Waterproofing and trades must be licensed. Because of this, your warranty and compliance paperwork will support you if you sell or insure your house.
Timeline: 10–15 day builds vs larger scopes
- Minor cosmetic jobs: 5–10 days
- Standard makeovers, mid-range: 10–15 days
- High-end/full rebuilds: 15–30 days, especially if plumbing moves or custom joinery involved.
- Plus, plan extra time for permits, product orders and surprise fixes. For example, rot or aged wiring.
Pitfalls that waste money
- Underestimating budget: Add 10–20% buffer for suprises—most renovations run over.
- Choosing style over function: Fancy fittings that don’t suit small spaces or daily use.
- Dodgy trades: Unlicensed work risks leaks, failed waterproofing, safety issues.
- Skipping permits: Unapproved works block resale, insurance, and expose you to fines.
- Poor planning: Not measuring properly, buying wrong-size fixtures, or failing to plan storage and lighting.
- Ignoring ventilation: No exhaust fans builds up mould, damaging finishes and causing health risks.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit? Yes, for structural, plumbing, major wiring or waterproofing jobs.
- Can I DIY? Paint and fittings, yes. Plumbing, waterproofing and major works must be licensed.
- What’s the average cost of a bathroom Renovation? Small cosmetic: $7k–$15k. Mid-range: $15k–$25k. Luxury: $25k–$45k+.
- How do I reduce costs? Keep plumbing positions, mix budget and premium finishes, order materials early.
- What makes a bathroom feel bigger? Floating vanities, glass showers, good lighting, vertical storage.
Ready to start your own bathroom Renovation Get your quote today and see how easy it is to get a real result.