Real all-in cost by scope

Budget bathroom (re-tile, new vanity + toilet + shower screen, keep footprint): $18,000-$32,000. Mid-range full bathroom (new plumbing, floor-to-ceiling tiles, quality tapware, custom vanity): $38,000-$58,000. Premium (stone finishes, freestanding bath, heated floors, architect design): $65,000-$120,000+. Add 10-25% for heritage suburbs. Add $2,500-$8,500 for asbestos removal (pre-1985 bathrooms).

The sub-floor waterproofing challenge

Pre-1940 Melbourne homes typically have suspended timber sub-floors. Modern falls (1:80 minimum), membranes and drainage all need to be retro-fitted. Budget $6,000-$14,000 extra vs a modern slab-on-ground home. Poor waterproofing is the #1 cause of $20k+ warranty claims 5-10 years post-renovation. Insist on a certified waterproofer with a written 10-year guarantee.

Asbestos in pre-1985 bathrooms

Bathrooms built between 1955 and 1985 in Melbourne almost always contain asbestos - eaves, wall sheeting, ceiling boards, floor vinyl backing. Full removal + safe disposal adds $2,500-$8,500 to any full-strip renovation. Get a licensed asbestos assessor + certified removal contractor before demolition. Under Victoria's OHS regulations, DIY removal of more than 10m² is illegal.

The six questions every Melbourne bathroom renovator must answer

1. Show me your current VBA registration + DBI cert. 2. What is the fixed price - and what triggers a variation? 3. Who is the certified waterproofer + what warranty do they provide? 4. What happens if hidden asbestos is discovered? 5. Give me three recent bathrooms I can visit + one customer I can call. 6. How long will my bathroom be unusable?

Frequently asked questions