Bathroom Renovation Checklist (Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide)

A bathroom renovation can quickly become stressful if you do not plan it properly. Minor oversights often turn into costly mistakes, delays, or long-term issues. A clear bathroom renovation checklist helps you stay organised, make better decisions, and keep the project on track from day one. This guide walks you through every stage of the process in a simple, logical order so you can renovate with confidence.

By: Sam Salama  |  Licensed Builder December 19, 2025

Bathroom Renovation Checklist – What to Plan Before You Start

Modern bathroom background overlaid with a clipboard checklist and pen, symbolising early planning and preparation for a bathroom renovation.
A bathroom renovation checklist laid over a modern bathroom setting, highlighting the importance of planning every step before starting the project.

Why every homeowner needs a bathroom renovation checklist

A bathroom renovation involves many decisions that affect cost, functionality, and compliance. A checklist gives you structure. It helps you plan rather than react to problems mid-project. Homeowners who use a checklist avoid rushed decisions, unexpected costs, and poor-quality outcomes.

Bathroom renovation checklist vs bathroom remodel checklist

A bathroom renovation checklist usually covers significant changes such as plumbing, electrical work, layout changes, and waterproofing. A bathroom remodel checklist focuses more on upgrading fixtures, tiles, or finishes without structural changes. Knowing the difference helps you set realistic expectations and budgets.

Common problems a checklist helps you avoid

A well-prepared checklist helps prevent budget blowouts, incorrect fixture sizes, poor layout choices, non-compliant waterproofing, and delays caused by unplanned trade work.

Bathroom Renovation Planning Checklist (Budget, Timeline & Scope)

A man and a woman reviewing renovation paperwork at a desk, with a laptop and coffee cup, planning the budget and timeline for a bathroom renovation.
Homeowners reviewing renovation documents together, balancing budget, timeline, and scope before committing to a bathroom renovation.

Set a realistic bathroom renovation budget

Start by deciding what you can comfortably afford. Include materials, labour, approvals, and a contingency buffer. Many homeowners underestimate costs, so allowing an extra 10–15% protects you from surprises.

Decide between a complete renovation and a bathroom remodel

If you plan to move plumbing, change the layout, or upgrade electrical systems, you are looking at a complete renovation. If the layout stays the same and you only refresh surfaces and fixtures, a remodel may be enough.

Timeline checklist

Most renovations take two to four weeks. Your checklist should account for demolition, rough-ins, waterproofing curing time, tiling, and final installation. Rushing any step often leads to defects.

DIY vs professional checklist

DIY may seem cheaper, but mistakes can be costly. Licensed professionals ensure work meets Australian standards and provide certification. For most homeowners, professional renovation delivers better long-term value.

Bathroom Design & Layout Checklist (Function Comes First)

Detailed bathroom layout sketches showing fixture placement and measurements, used for planning a functional bathroom renovation design.
Bathroom design sketches illustrating layout planning, measurements, and functional placement of fixtures before renovation begins.

Bathroom measurement checklist

Accurate measurements are essential. Measure walls, ceiling height, door swings, windows, and existing plumbing locations. Incorrect measurements often cause delays or force design compromises.

Layout planning checklist for plumbing efficiency

Keeping plumbing close to existing locations reduces cost and risk. Efficient layouts also improve water pressure, drainage performance, and long-term reliability.

Small bathroom renovation checklist tips

In small bathrooms, innovative design makes a big difference. Walk-in showers, wall-hung vanities, and recessed storage help create space while improving functionality.

Storage, lighting, and ventilation planning

Good storage keeps the bathroom clutter-free. Layered lighting improves usability, while proper ventilation prevents mould and moisture damage.

Bathroom Fixtures & Fittings Checklist

Modern double vanity bathroom with two sinks, decorative plants, and black circular storage boxes holding towels and bathroom accessories.
A styled bathroom vanity setup showcasing sinks, storage, and fittings, highlighting fixture selection.

Toilet selection checklist

Choose a toilet that suits your space and plumbing configuration. Check rough-in measurements and water efficiency ratings before purchasing.

Vanity and basin checklist

Select a vanity that balances storage, size, and style. Ensure basin depth and tap positioning prevent water splashing.

Shower, bathtub, or combined layout checklist

Users will use the bathroom daily. Families often prefer bathtubs, while ensuite bathrooms usually benefit from spacious showers.

Tapware, mixers, and accessories checklist

Consistency matters. Matching finishes across tapware and accessories creates a clean, professional look and avoids visual clutter.

Water-saving fixtures and WELS ratings

Water-efficient fixtures reduce utility bills and meet Australian sustainability standards without sacrificing performance.

Materials Checklist

Bathroom under renovation with wall tiles partially installed, showing the material selection and installation process.
A bathroom mid-renovation with wall tiling in progress, demonstrating material choice and installation quality.

Floor and wall tile checklist

Choose tiles designed for wet areas. Slip resistance, durability, and ease of cleaning should guide your selection.

Waterproofing materials checklist

Waterproofing protects the structure of your home. Use compliant membranes and ensure correct application across all wet zones.

Shower screen types checklist

Frameless screens offer a modern look, while semi-frameless and framed options provide durability and cost efficiency. Choose based on budget and maintenance preferences.

Vanity benchtops and cabinetry materials

Moisture-resistant materials perform best in bathrooms. Poor-quality cabinetry often shows damage within a few years.

Grout, sealant, and finishing materials checklist

High-quality grout and sealants improve hygiene and reduce long-term maintenance.

Bathroom Plumbing & Electrical Checklist

Female plumber inspecting the hose connection beneath a bathroom sink during plumbing checks.
A licensed plumber inspecting sink plumbing, ensuring bathroom plumbing and electrical systems meet safety standards.

Plumbing relocation and upgrade

Renovation is the ideal time to replace old pipes. Upgrading plumbing now avoids future leaks hidden behind walls.

Electrical points, power outlets, and lighting

Plan power points and lighting early. Electrical work must follow strict safety regulations.

Exhaust fan and ventilation

Proper ventilation protects paint, tiles, and cabinetry from moisture-related damage.

Heated floors and towel rails

Heated flooring and towel rails add comfort but require early planning during rough-in stages.

Australian plumbing and electrical compliance

Complete all work using licensed trades and certify the work upon completion.

Waterproofing & Compliance (Critical Step)

Bathroom renovation at the waterproofing stage, with waterproof membrane being applied to walls and floor.
Applying waterproofing membranes during renovation, a critical step to ensure long-term durability and compliance.

Waterproofing certificate checklist

Always request a waterproofing certificate. This document protects you if issues arise later.

NCC and Australian Standards requirements

Compliance ensures safety, durability, and legal protection.

Council approvals and strata approval checklist

Apartments and structural changes may require approval before work begins.

Waterproofing mistakes that cause failures

Common issues include poor drainage, falls, rushed curing times, and incomplete membrane coverage.

Installation Checklist

Bathroom renovation in progress with wall tiles being installed by a tiler.
Professional tile installation, marking a key stage in the construction process.

Demolition preparation

Prepare the site properly to protect surrounding areas and avoid damage.

Trade sequencing

A properly placed trade order ensures high-quality results and prevents rework.

Tiling and waterproofing inspection

Inspect waterproofing before tiling. This step prevents hidden defects.

Fixture installation order

Install fixtures only after tiling and painting are complete.

Silicone, sealing, and finishing

Final sealing improves water resistance and appearance.

Remodel Checklist – Final Inspection & Handover

Plumber kneeling by a bathroom vanity, inspecting the sink while taking notes during final checks.
Final inspection in progress, with a plumber checking fittings and documenting the handover process.

Visual quality inspection

Check alignment, finishes, and overall quality.

Plumbing and drainage testing

Test all water points thoroughly.

Electrical safety and compliance check

Confirm receipt of all electrical certificates.

Waterproofing and leak testing

Inspect wet areas for early signs of leakage.

Defects list and warranty handover

Document defects and collect warranties and manuals.

Mistakes to Avoid

Bathroom under repair with broken tiles and a plumber redoing work, overlaid with wooden blocks spelling the word “AVOID”.
Mistake being corrected, highlighting common errors homeowners should avoid during renovation projects.

Skipping waterproofing or certification

This mistake often leads to significant structural damage.

Poor budget planning

Underestimating costs forces compromises later.

Choosing style over function

A bathroom must work well every day, not just look good.

Hiring unlicensed or uninsured tradespeople

Unlicensed work creates legal and financial risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

It includes planning, budgeting, design, compliance, installation, and inspection steps.

Most projects take two to four weeks.

Demolition, rough-ins, waterproofing, tiling, and fit-off.

Usually no, unless structural or strata changes are involved.

Costs vary, but budgeting realistically prevents stress.

A structured checklist keeps your renovation organised, compliant, and stress-free.

Speak to a professional early if your renovation involves layout changes, waterproofing, or compliance requirements.