Bathroom Renovation Planning Checklist
1. Measure and Draw Your Existing Bathroom
- Measure the room accurately, including:
- Wall lengths
- Ceiling height
- Window locations and sizes
- Door locations and swing directions
- Existing plumbing outlets (toilet, vanity, shower, bath)
- Create a scaled plan view of the current bathroom layout.
2. Assess the Layout
- Decide whether to:
- Keep the existing layout to minimize plumbing and construction costs, or
- Redesign the layout to improve functionality and appearance.
- Mark on the plan:
- Plumbing locations
- Electrical points
- Windows
- Doors
- Ventilation requirements
- Make notes on any proposed changes and the impact on plumbing relocation costs.
3. Research Products and Design Ideas
- Visit bathroom and tile showrooms to:
- Compare fixtures, fittings, vanities, showers, baths, and toilets.
- Review tile options, colours, textures, and layouts.
- Collect product specifications and pricing.
- Create a selections list for preferred products.
4. Obtain Quotes
- Request detailed quotes from at least three- bathroom renovation companies.
- Provide each contractor with the same information and plans to ensure comparable pricing.
5. Compare Quotes Carefully
Check each quote includes:
- Demolition and disposal
- Plumbing works
- Electrical works
- Waterproofing
- Wall and floor tiling
- Fixtures and fittings
- Painting
- Building approvals (if required)
- Project management
- GST
- Warranty details
Identify any exclusions or assumptions before making comparisons.
6. Verify Contractor Credentials
Before selecting a contractor:
- Search the QBCC (Queensland Building and Construction Commission) website.
- Confirm:
- Current licence status
- Licence class and scope
- Insurance coverage
- Disciplinary history (if any)
- Company details
7. Make Your Final Selection
Choose the contractor based on:
- Value for money, not just the lowest price
- Quality of inclusions
- Communication and professionalism
- References and reviews
- QBCC compliance and licensing
This approach will help reduce unexpected costs and ensure you compare contractors on an equal basis.