A standard bathroom renovation is a step up from a basic remodel, offering better-quality materials, nice-looking fixtures, and a more polished finish, without reaching high-end luxury. While a basic upgrade focuses on making things work and keeping costs low (like replacing old tiles and updating fixtures), a standard renovation gives you more freedom to create a stylish space with modern finishes, sleek vanities, and better-quality fittings. It’s a great choice for homeowners who want a well-designed, practical, and long-lasting bathroom without overspending.
According to HiPages, a standard bathroom renovation can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $35,000 or more, with the average cost around $26,000 in 2023, based on data from the Housing Industry Association of Australia. It’s also a good idea to set aside an extra 10-20% for unexpected costs.
So, how much should you expect to spend? Let’s break it down.
Materials and Fixtures
The cost of materials in a standard bathroom renovation varies based on quality and style. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated prices.
Bathroom Fixtures |
Estimated Cost |
|
Vanity (Wall Hung or Freestanding) |
$800 - $2,500 |
|
Basin (Above Counter, Undermount, Wall Hung) |
$300 - $1,200 |
|
Tapware (Basin, Shower, Bath Mixers) |
$600 - $2,500 |
|
Shower (Rain Shower, Handheld) |
$800 - $3,000 |
|
Toilet (Rimless or Back-to-Wall) |
$500 - $2,000 |
|
Shower Screen (Semi-Frameless or Frameless) |
$1,000 - $3,500 |
|
Bathtub (Back-to-Wall Bath) |
$1,500 - $4,000 |
|
Mirror or Shaving Cabinet |
$300 - $1,500 |
|
Tiles |
$40 - $120 per sqm |
|
Lighting (Backlit Lighting) |
$500 - $2,000 |
|
Bathroom Accessories |
$150 - $600 |
Labour Cost
Labour is a major part of any standard bathroom renovation, with costs depending on the complexity of the job and the trades required. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated expenses.
Trade |
Estimated Cost |
|
Demolition |
$1,500 - $4,000 |
|
Plumbing (New Fixtures & Pipework) |
$3,000 - $7,000 |
|
Electrical Work (Lighting, Exhaust Fan) |
$800 - $2,500 |
|
Tiling (Walls & Floors) |
$4,000 - $8,000 |
|
Waterproofing |
$1,000 - $2,500 |
|
Painting |
$800 - $2,000 |
|
Installation of Fixtures |
$2,500 - $6,000 |
|
Glass Shower Screen Installation |
$1,200 - $3,500 |
Many homeowners wonder why bathroom renovations cost more than other rooms in the house. The reason? Bathrooms involve multiple skilled trades, including plumbers, tilers, electricians, and waterproofing specialists, each contributing to the total cost. Unlike a bedroom or living room upgrade, which is usually straightforward, a bathroom remodel involves intricate work, contributing to the total cost.
When investing in a bathroom renovation, choosing the right fixtures is just as important as the design itself. Trusted retailers can help you find premium vanities, tapware, basins, bath, and shower screens that match your style while ensuring durability.
