Is your bathroom stuck in the early 2000s – or worse, the ’90s? Whether you’re craving a luxe spa-style sanctuary or just sick of dodgy tiles and dripping taps, getting clear on the costs is step one. With over 25 years experience in building and renovating, we know a thing or two on what’s needed to renovate your bathroom in Sydney. Let’s break down the costs and inclusions of a bathroom renovation in Sydney – written by our licensed builder and renovator Chris, no fluff, just the real deal.
Understanding Bathroom Renovation Costs
Since 2023, skyrocket interest rates combined with a lower housing market has increased the average bathroom renovation price to $26,000.00, that’s up 24% since 2021, according to the Housing Industry Association. We vow that the average bathroom renovation cost is about $25,000 – $30,000 but then again, the cost of a Sydney bathroom renovation can vary wildly depending on what you’re doing.
Here’s a rough guide on bathroom remodel costs:
- Budget Bathroom: $15,000 – $17,000
- Mid-range Bathroom: $17,000 – $30,000
- Luxury Bathroom: $35,000
These figures include essentials like tiling, plumbing, waterproofing, and fixtures – but hold onto your towel, because what’s actually included varies by budget.
So, what’s included at each price point?
- Budget Bathroom Renovation Inclusions ($15,000–$17,000)
This is the cosmetic makeover zone. Think of it as a freshen-up rather than a full transformation. Perfect for rental properties or when you just want to make it liveable again. Here’s what you can usually squeeze in:
- New showerhead, taps, and basin
- Swapping out that tired old vanity
- Basic tiling repairs or regrouting
- A quick paint job
Forget structural changes or plumbing relocation – your wallet won’t stretch that far in this range.
- What’s Included in a Standard Bathroom Renovation? ($17,000–$30,000)
Got a bit more to play with? Nice. This is where things get seriously functional and good-looking. Perfect for most Sydney homeowners wanting a solid upgrade.
Around $17,000–$20,000?
- Smaller bathrooms
- Simpler layouts
- Functional finishes
Between $20,000–$30,000?
- Mid-range to premium tiles (floor & wall), including feature tile options
- Custom cabinetry with stone benchtops
- Quality tapware, mixers, showerhead
- New toilet, vanity, frameless or semi-frameless shower screen
- Bathtub if space allows
- Lighting upgrades, powerpoints, fan installation
- Relocated plumbing (within reason)
- A fresh coat of paint and stylish accessories (towel rails, mirror, etc.)
Basically, this is the sweet spot where the bathroom starts feeling brand new.
- What’s Included in a Luxury Bathroom Renovation ($35,000+)?
This is where things get fancy. We’re talking instagram-worthy, spa-at-home, boutique hotel-level bathrooms.
For $35k and up, you can expect:
- Custom-designed layouts
- Full plumbing and electrical rework
- Top-shelf tiles (hello marble!), designer tapware, floating vanities
- Freestanding tub, dual showers, body jets, and rainfall heads
- Heated flooring, smart lighting, and even built-in Bluetooth speakers
- Luxury styling niches, ledges, soft-close drawers, designer lights, and more
We’re talking a full-blown bathroom makeover, you won’t believe the old one ever existed!
Factors Influencing Bathroom Renovation Costs
Every reno is unique, but here’s what typically affects the bill:
- Size & Layout – Bigger space = bigger price.
- Material Choices – From budget-friendly basics to bougie bespoke tiles.
- Plumbing & Electrical Work – Moving pipes and power? That’s extra.
- Labour & Trades – Quality trades make the magic happen (and yes, they’re worth it).
Cost Breakdown by Bathroom Size
| Bathroom Size | Estimated Cost |
| 1.5m x 1.5m | $19,000 – $21,750 |
| 2.5m x 2.5m | $20,250 – $23,000 |
| 3.0m x 3.0m | $21,250 – $24,000 |
These estimates assume mid-range fixtures and fittings. Luxe upgrades or structural changes will push costs higher.
Do You Need Council Approval for Bathroom Renovations in Sydney?
Short answer: sometimes yes – especially for structural changes.
If you’re knocking down walls, moving plumbing points, or modifying a load-bearing element, you may need council or strata approval. Here’s the lowdown:
When You Don’t Need Approval:
- Cosmetic changes (tiling, painting, vanity swaps)
- Replacing like-for-like fixtures (e.g. swapping a toilet)
When You Do Need Approval:
- Knocking down or altering walls (structural)
- Moving plumbing or drainage points
- Adding new windows or changing external structure
If you’re in a strata complex, you’ll also need Owners Corporation approval. Don’t stress – we help our clients handle all the paperwork.
👉 NSW Planning Portal – Check reno rules here
Pro Tip: We help all our Sydney clients navigate permits and paperwork. Whether it’s a council DA or strata form, we’ve got you covered.
Tips for Budgeting Your Bathroom Reno
Here’s how to stay sane and solvent:
- Set a realistic budget (and add 10-15% for surprises).
- Prioritise essentials over extras.
- Your moodboard can determine the budget bracket you fall into.
- Work with licenced professionals like us – we’re fully qualified builders and plumbers since 2000.
Why We’re Your Go-To for Bathroom Renovations Sydney
We’ve been in the reno game since the early 2000s. That means we’ve seen the trends, the tricks, and the horror stories – and we know how to get it right.
Whether you’re doing small bathroom renovations in a Bondi apartment or a luxury bathroom remodel in the Inner West, our team brings certified skills, creative flair, and a no-BS attitude to every job.
✅ Licenced builders
✅ Qualified plumbers
✅ Local Sydney legends (if we say so ourselves)
Looking to renovate your bathroom in Sydney and ready to chat? Check our bathroom renovation projects or get in touch with us and let’s turn your bathroom into your happy place.
More Renovation Goodness:
External Resources We Rate:
- Caesarstone Australia – Benchtop inspo galore
- NSW Government: Renovation & Strata Rules
- Houzz Australia – Endless design ideas