Bathroom Renovation Costs 2025

Last updated: February 7, 2025 · 9 min read

Based on data from the Housing Industry Association of Australia (HIA), 2023–Current

When planning a bathroom renovation, it's important to understand the different cost tiers and what’s involved at each level — including waterproofing compliance, which is essential in all Victorian wet areas. Below is a complete breakdown of the three main renovation types, what they typically include, and how compliance affects your options.

1. Basic Bathroom Renovation: $8,000 – $15,000

Ideal for smaller bathrooms or surface-level cosmetic updates on a tighter budget.

• Budget fittings and finishes

• Existing plumbing and electrical remain in place

• Common inclusions: framed shower screens, back-to-wall toilet suites, floor-mounted vanities

• Limited design flexibility

  
  

⚠️ Waterproofing Compliance Note:This tier cannot be warrantied unless new waterproofing is installed in accordance with AS 3740 standards. This means that existing fixtures (vanity, toilet, shower, etc.) must be removed and replaced to access all wet areas and install compliant waterproofing. If this is not done, the renovation may appear fresh but will not be legally certifiable or protected by any warranty.

2. Standard Bathroom Renovation: $20,000 – $35,000

Best suited for average-sized bathrooms needing an updated look with mid-range finishes and moderate changes.

• Allows for minor plumbing and electrical layout adjustments

• Mid-range materials and fixtures with improved design features

• Common inclusions: frameless shower screens, freestanding bathtubs, upgraded tapware, wall-hung or custom vanities

• Wall and floor tiling throughout

  
  

✅ Waterproofing Compliance Note:This renovation tier includes full new waterproofing across all required areas and complies with AS 3740 standards. Work is eligible for warranty and certification, ensuring legal and structural integrity.

3. Premium Bathroom Renovation: $35,000+

A full transformation of the space, ideal for homeowners seeking a luxury, custom-designed bathroom.

• Major layout changes including structural alterations and plumbing/electrical relocation

• High-end finishes and designer fittings

• Common inclusions: wall-hung vanities, walk-in showers, recessed niches, in-wall cisterns, underfloor heating, and high-spec tiling

• Custom cabinetry, feature lighting, and unique design elements

  
  

✅ Waterproofing Compliance Note:As with the Standard tier, all waterproofing is fully replaced and certified to meet the latest AS 3740 standards. All premium renovations are delivered to the highest quality, with full warranty and documentation.

Why Waterproofing Matters

In Victoria, all wet area renovations — including bathrooms — must comply with the AS 3740 standards. Waterproofing must be completed by a licensed professional and certified before warranties can be issued. Skipping this step may result in structural damage, mould, and voided warranties.

Source

This breakdown is based on current bathroom renovation data provided by the Housing Industry Association of Australia (HIA) and industry insights from a February 2025 article by the hipages team.Original article: “Bathroom Renovation Costs: What to Expect in 2025” – hipages blog, Feb 7, 2025