Short answer
A standard bathroom renovation in Sydney typically costs between $20,000 and $35,000 in 2026. Budget refurbishments start around $15,000. Premium bathrooms with structural changes, stone and imported fittings commonly reach $45,000–$70,000 or more.
The single biggest lever is whether you keep the existing layout. Retaining plumbing rough-ins saves thousands. Moving the toilet, shower or vanity means new drainage, new waterproofing zones, and often new tiling patterns.
What drives the price
- Layout changes — moving plumbing, adding a second vanity, extending the footprint.
- Tile selection — large-format porcelain, natural stone and imported tiles carry a premium in material and labour.
- Waterproofing scope — showers over 900mm, hobless entries, and full floor waterproofing all add cost, but they're not the place to save.
- Fixtures — freestanding baths, frameless screens, wall-hung vanities and thermostatic mixers.
- Cabinetry — custom joinery vs off-the-shelf vanities.
- Site conditions — apartments, second-floor bathrooms, and heritage homes add access and structural considerations.
Where people overspend
Feature walls with mosaic or stone niches, oversized freestanding baths that force a layout redesign, and last-minute PC item upgrades (tapware, screens, mirrors). Fix the PC item budget before demolition and stick to it.
Timeline
A typical Sydney bathroom takes 3–5 weeks on site: strip-out and rough-in (week 1), waterproofing and screed (week 2), tiling (weeks 2–3), then fit-off of vanity, screen, tapware and accessories. Custom stone tops and imported items can add 2–4 weeks lead time before the job even starts.
Sydney bathroom renovation price bands (2026)
| Tier | Typical Sydney range | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| Budget refresh | $15,000 – $22,000 | Same layout, mid-range tiles and fixtures, off-the-shelf vanity. |
| Standard renovation | $22,000 – $35,000 | Full strip-out, quality tiles, frameless screen, custom vanity, modern fittings. |
| Premium | $35,000 – $55,000 | Layout changes, natural stone, freestanding bath, feature niches, imported tapware. |
| High-end / structural | $55,000 – $80,000+ | Footprint extension, underfloor heating, bespoke joinery, luxury finishes throughout. |
Ranges are indicative for a single bathroom in the Sydney metro area. Exact pricing depends on scope, site access and material selections.
Frequently asked
How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Sydney?+
Most standard Sydney bathroom renovations sit between $20,000 and $35,000 in 2026. Budget refurbishments start around $15,000 and premium fit-outs with structural changes commonly reach $45,000–$70,000 or more.
What is the cheapest way to renovate a bathroom in Sydney?+
Keep the existing layout, retain plumbing rough-ins, and choose mid-range tiles and fixtures. Moving plumbing, changing the floor plan, and premium stone or imported tapware are the biggest cost drivers.
How long does a bathroom renovation take?+
A typical Sydney bathroom takes 3–5 weeks on site: 1 week strip-out and rough-in, 1 week waterproofing and screeding, 1–2 weeks tiling, then fit-off. Custom joinery or stone tops can add lead time.
Do I need council approval for a bathroom renovation in NSW?+
Most like-for-like bathroom renovations don't require DA approval, but waterproofing must comply with AS 3740 and licensed trades are required for plumbing and electrical. Strata apartments need an owners corporation approval and often a licensed waterproofer's certificate.
What increases the cost the most?+
Moving plumbing, adding underfloor heating, natural stone benchtops, frameless shower screens, niches with feature tile, and structural changes like removing walls or extending the room footprint.
How do I get an accurate quote?+
Share your rough scope, room dimensions, photos, and any inspiration images. We come out, measure, and return a fixed itemised quote covering demolition, waterproofing, plumbing, electrical, tiling, fixtures and final finishes.
Ready for a real quote?
Every project is different. Tell us about yours and we'll come back with scope, timing and a fair price.