Renovating your bathroom is one of the most rewarding projects you can take on in your home. A new bathroom can completely transform the look, feel, and functionality of your space, but without careful planning, the process can quickly become overwhelming.

To help, we’ve put together the ultimate bathroom renovation checklist that covers everything from early planning and budgeting to the final finishing touches. Whether you’re updating a small bathroom, remodelling an ensuite, or planning a complete bathroom overhaul, this guide will help you stay organised and confident throughout the process.

1. Plan Your Goals and Budget

Before you start renovating your bathroom, take time to outline your goals.

Ask yourself:

What’s driving this renovation, functionality, aesthetics, or both?
Are you looking for a modern bathroom design or something more traditional?
Do you want a complete bathroom remodel or just a few key upgrades?

Set a realistic budget

Bathroom renovations can vary in price depending on the size of your bathroom, materials, and labour costs. Always include a 10–20% contingency for unexpected expenses like plumbing or electrical issues discovered during demolition.

Include all major costs in your budget:

Labour (builder, plumber, electrician, tiler)
Fixtures and fittings (vanity, toilet, shower, bath)
Waterproofing and tiling
Painting, lighting, and accessories
Rubbish removal and clean-up

If you plan properly from the beginning, you’ll avoid costly changes later. Contact Dependabuild for a quote.

2. Gather Inspiration and Refine Your Bathroom Design

Your design should reflect how you use your space every day.

Explore design ideas

Browse bathroom design galleries or visit showrooms to collect ideas for colours, tiles, vanities, and lighting. Look at how different finishes work together, matte vs gloss tiles, chrome vs brushed nickel fixtures, light vs dark palettes.

For small bathrooms, consider wall-mounted vanities and toilets to free up floor space. Large mirrors, glass shower screens, and light-coloured walls can make compact bathrooms feel more open.

Think function first

While style is important, practical design choices make a bigger difference. Make sure your design allows for good lighting, ventilation, and storage. Choose water-resistant and easy-clean materials, such as porcelain tiles, moisture-resistant cabinetry, and anti-mould paints.

3. Plan Plumbing and Electrical Work

One of the biggest factors in any bathroom renovation project is your plumbing and electrical layout.

Plumbing

Decide early whether you’ll keep fixtures in the same locations or move them. Relocating pipes and drains can significantly increase costs, so balance aesthetics with practicality. Make sure your plumber is licensed and provides a compliance certificate after completion.

Electrical

Your electrician will install wiring for lighting, exhaust fans, power points, and heated towel rails. Plan your lighting carefully, a combination of task lighting around mirrors and ambient ceiling lights creates a comfortable, well-lit space.

If you’re upgrading your hot water system or adding underfloor heating, include those in your early planning.

4. Get Approvals and Hire Your Trades

Depending on your project, you may need approvals or certifications before work begins.

In NSW, waterproofing must be done by a licensed professional who can issue a waterproofing certificate. If your renovation involves structural changes or window modifications, you may also need council approval.

Choosing your team

Select qualified and insured tradespeople experienced in renovating bathrooms. Ask for references, check previous work, and confirm they follow Australian Standards for waterproofing, electrical, and plumbing. A reliable contractor will coordinate trades efficiently and keep your renovation on schedule.

5. Prepare the Site

Before demolition begins:

Remove all items from the bathroom.
Protect nearby rooms with drop sheets or dust barriers.
Arrange a skip bin for debris.

Your builder will then disconnect plumbing and electricals, ensuring the area is safe to work in. This is also a good time to double-check measurements for new fixtures and fittings before orders are finalised.

6. Demolition and Rough-In Stage

Demolition

Old tiles, fittings, and walls are removed according to your plan. Proper disposal is essential, use an approved waste service to stay compliant with local council requirements.

Rough-ins

This is when your plumber and electrician run new pipes, drains, and wiring inside the walls and floors. Accurate positioning now ensures everything fits perfectly later.

It’s also the right time to install new ventilation systems to improve air quality and water efficiency, helping prevent mould and reducing utility costs.

Waterproofing

Once rough-ins are complete, a qualified waterproofer will apply a membrane to all wet zones. This step is crucial to protect your home’s structure and prevent leaks. Ensure you receive a waterproofing certificate before tiling begins.

7. Wall and Flooring Installation

Prepare the surfaces

Ensure all surfaces are level and ready for tiling. If you’re installing underfloor heating, it will go in before the final screed.

Choose durable, water-resistant finishes

Select tiles suitable for wet areas, non-slip floor tiles and glazed wall tiles. Consider the visual balance between wall and flooring finishes; lighter tones make small bathrooms appear larger.

Use quality grout and sealant to maintain water resistance and extend the life of your bathroom.

8. Install Fixtures and Fittings

Once tiling is done, it’s time for your new fixtures to shine.

Vanity and basin – Choose styles that suit your layout. Wall-mounted options create a more spacious look.
Shower and bath – Decide between a frameless glass shower, shower-over-bath, or freestanding bath.
Toilet – Wall-hung or back-to-wall designs offer a sleek, modern appearance.
Tapware and accessories – Match finishes across mixers, towel rails, and accessories for a cohesive design.

This is also when mirrors, shelving, and lighting fixtures are installed, the finishing touches that complete your bathroom remodel.

9. Add Style and Personality

Now that the functional work is done, bring your new bathroom to life with thoughtful details.

Layer lighting: combine ceiling lights with wall sconces or LED mirrors.
Add greenery for freshness.
Use quality textiles, towels, bath mats, and storage baskets.
Choose accessories that balance function and style.

A few finishing touches can transform your bathroom from practical to personal.

10. Final Inspections and Clean-Up

Before signing off, inspect the finished space with your builder. Check that:

Plumbing and electrical fixtures work correctly.
Waterproofing and tiling are free from defects.
There are no leaks, cracks, or gaps in seals.
You have all relevant certificates and warranties.

A professional builder like Dependabuild will ensure your project meets every Australian Standard, from waterproofing to structural safety, giving you peace of mind for years to come.

11. Ongoing Maintenance Tips

To keep your new bathroom looking and performing its best:

Keep the area well ventilated to avoid moisture build-up.
Reseal silicone joints every 12–18 months.
Clean grout and fittings regularly with mild cleaners.
Check exhaust fans and drains to maintain airflow and water efficiency.

A little maintenance goes a long way in protecting your investment.

Common Bathroom Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

Many homeowners underestimate the time, cost, and complexity of a bathroom renovation project. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:

Cutting corners on waterproofing or plumbing and electrical work.
Choosing materials that aren’t truly water-resistant.
Overcrowding a small bathroom with bulky fixtures.
Forgetting to plan adequate storage.
Failing to factor in ventilation and lighting early on.

A professional builder can help you avoid these pitfalls and achieve a seamless result.

Bathroom Renovation Checklist

Use this practical checklist to stay organised and make sure every part of your bathroom renovation runs smoothly from start to finish.

Planning

☐ Define your goals, style, layout, or functionality improvements
☐ Set your budget and include a 10–20% contingency for surprises
☐ Gather design inspiration and choose your preferred look
☐ Measure your bathroom space accurately
☐ Decide between a full renovation or partial upgrade

Design & Layout

☐ Finalise your layout (vanity, shower, toilet, bath positions)
☐ Choose durable, water-resistant materials for floors and walls
☐ Select tiles, paint colours, fixtures, and fittings
☐ Plan lighting, ventilation, and power points
☐ Ensure accessibility and adequate storage space

Pre-Construction

☐ Check if council approval or certification is required
☐ Hire licensed trades - builder, plumber, electrician, tiler, waterproofer
☐ Order materials early (tiles, fittings, vanity, shower screen)
☐ Confirm delivery timelines and lead times
☐ Prepare a detailed schedule for each stage

During Construction

☐ Remove old fixtures, tiles, and cabinetry safely
☐ Inspect for hidden damage or leaks before rebuilding
☐ Complete plumbing and electrical rough-ins
☐ Waterproof walls, floors, and wet areas (get certification)
☐ Install new flooring, tiles, and wall finishes

Installation & Finishing Touches

☐ Fit vanity, shower, bath, and toilet
☐ Install tapware, mirrors, lighting, and towel rails
☐ Seal all joins and apply final silicone
☐ Clean, polish, and inspect all surfaces
☐ Check that plumbing, lighting, and ventilation work properly

Final Steps

☐ Walk through with your builder for a final inspection
☐ Review waterproofing and electrical certificates
☐ Confirm all work meets Australian standards
☐ Keep warranties and manuals in a safe place
☐ Enjoy your new bathroom!

Dependabuild manages every stage of your bathroom renovation with precision and care, from planning to completion. Get in touch today to start your project.

FAQs

Q1. How long does a bathroom renovation take?

Most full bathroom renovations in Sydney take around 3–5 weeks, depending on the size of your bathroom, materials, and scope of work. Smaller projects may be finished in under two weeks.

Q2. What materials are best for water resistance?

Porcelain or ceramic tiles, waterproof membranes, and moisture-resistant plasterboard are ideal. Always ensure your cabinetry is sealed and your fixtures are rated for wet zones.

Q3. How can I make a small bathroom feel bigger?

Use wall-mounted vanities and toilets, large mirrors, and light-coloured tiles. Opt for clear glass shower screens instead of opaque ones to create a sense of space.

Q4. How do I improve water efficiency in my bathroom?

Install WELS-rated tapware, dual-flush toilets, and efficient showerheads. Consider flow restrictors and always fix small leaks early, they add up over time.

Q5. Do I need professional help or can I DIY?

Some cosmetic updates (painting, accessories) can be DIY, but plumbing, electrical, and waterproofing should always be handled by licensed professionals to ensure safety and compliance.

Q6. What are the most important finishing touches?

Matching fixtures and fittings, good lighting, and practical accessories like towel hooks, shelving, and plants complete your bathroom and make it feel truly finished.

Ready to Renovate?

At Dependabuild, we specialise in high-quality bathroom renovations across Sydney’s Northern Beaches and North Shore. Whether you’re planning a small bathroom remodel or a full-scale transformation, our experienced team will guide you through every step, from design and planning to flawless execution.

Get in touch today to start your bathroom renovation - Contact Dependabuild