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Planning a bathroom renovation can feel overwhelming without knowing what to expect at each stage. Whether you’re refreshing an outdated space or completely transforming your bathroom, understanding the timeline helps set realistic expectations. This guide explains what homeowners in Australia can expect during their bathroom renovation journey. Looking for quality bathroom renovations in the Carrum Downs area? All Cabinetry offers professional services to help you create your dream bathroom. Several factors can impact your renovation timeline, including project scope, approval requirements, material availability, and existing site conditions.
Key Takeaways
- A basic bathroom refresh can take 3-7 days, while a full renovation typically requires 4-8 weeks
- The renovation process follows a specific sequence: planning, demolition, rough-in work, waterproofing, tiling, and final fixtures
- Ordering materials early and finalising selections before work begins can prevent costly delays
- Australian regulations require specific certifications for waterproofing and electrical/plumbing work
- Building in a 10-20% contingency budget helps manage unexpected issues that may extend the timeline
At-a-glance timeline summary
Typical durations by project type
Not all bathroom renovations are created equal. The scope of your project significantly impacts the timeline:
- Small refresh (new tiles, paint, vanity swap): 3–7 days
- Medium update (new fixtures, partial rework): 1–3 weeks
- Full gut renovation (demolition to finish): 4–8 weeks
Typical sequence of phases
Most bathroom renovations follow this general sequence: Planning and approvals → Demolition → Services rough-in → Waterproofing → Tiling and joinery → Final fixes and handover. Each phase has its own timeline and dependencies that affect the overall project duration.
Planning and design phase
Define scope and budget
Before any physical work begins, you’ll need to determine whether you want layout changes or just cosmetic upgrades. This initial decision significantly impacts your timeline and budget. Set aside a contingency of 10-20% to cover unexpected issues that might arise during the renovation.
Engaging professionals
Depending on your project’s complexity, you may need to hire a designer, builder, or licensed tradespeople. For larger renovations, start getting quotes at least 4-6 weeks before you want work to begin, as good professionals often have waiting periods.
“The planning phase is the foundation of any successful bathroom renovation. Taking time to make thoughtful decisions before demolition begins can save weeks of delays and thousands in budget overruns.” – All Cabinetry
Approvals and permits in Australia
Certain bathroom renovations require council approval, particularly those involving structural changes or alterations to plumbing stacks. In Australia, licensed plumbers and electricians must complete their respective work and provide compliance certificates. The approval process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on your local council.
Lead times for selections and orders
Some items have significant lead times and should be ordered well in advance. These include:
- Custom vanities: 3-6 weeks
- Stone benchtops: 2-3 weeks after templating
- Custom shower screens: 2-4 weeks
- Specialty tiles: 4-8 weeks (especially if imported)
Pre-construction and site preparation
Access, temporary arrangements and protection measures
Before demolition begins, protect adjoining areas from dust and damage. If you’re staying in your home during the renovation, you’ll need to arrange temporary bathroom access or alternate shower facilities. This preparation typically takes 1-2 days.
Asbestos and structural checks for older properties
Homes built before 1990 may contain asbestos in wall sheeting, floor tiles, or ceiling materials. Testing takes 1-3 days, and if asbestos is found, safe removal by licensed professionals adds 1-2 days and additional costs to your timeline.
Demolition and waste removal
Demolition of an average-sized bathroom typically takes 1-2 days. Skip bin delivery should be scheduled before demolition begins, and waste removal occurs continuously throughout the project.
Services rough-in (plumbing, electrical, framing)
Plumber and electrician work schedule
After demolition, plumbers and electricians will rough-in services for new fixture locations, floor wastes, hot water, and electrical points. This phase typically takes 2-4 days for a standard bathroom.
Inspections and sign-offs during rough-in
In Australia, certain plumbing and electrical work requires inspection before walls are closed up. These inspection checkpoints can add 1-2 days to your timeline but are essential for compliance and safety.
Common delays at this stage
The rough-in stage often reveals hidden issues such as rot, misplaced pipes, or insufficient access. Building in extra time (1-3 days) for potential problems can help maintain your overall timeline.
Waterproofing and substrate preparation
Australian waterproofing standards and compliance
Australian regulations have strict waterproofing requirements for wet areas. The waterproofing must be completed by a qualified professional who provides a compliance certificate. This work takes 1-2 days, plus essential drying time.
Curing and drying times
Waterproofing membranes typically require 24-48 hours to cure completely before tiling can begin. Rushing this stage can lead to waterproofing failures and expensive remediation work later.
Flooring preparation
Floor levelling and substrate repairs are essential for proper tile installation. Depending on the condition of your subfloor, this preparation can take 1-3 days, including drying time for screed or levelling compounds.
Tiling, joinery and benchtops
Tile installation and grouting timelines
Tiling an average bathroom takes 2-4 days, followed by a day for grouting. The timeline extends for complex tile patterns, mosaics, or large-format tiles. Grout needs 24-48 hours to cure before heavy use.
Bench top templating and fabrication
Stone benchtops require precise measurement (templating) after cabinetry is installed. Fabrication and installation typically add 1-2 weeks to your timeline from the templating date.
Vanity, cabinet and glazing installation
Cabinetry installation usually takes 1-2 days, while shower screens and mirrors add another day. These elements are typically installed after tiling to prevent damage to the fixtures.
Final fixtures, fittings and finishes
Installing tapware, shower screens, mirrors and lighting
Once major elements are in place, the final fixtures are installed. This stage takes 1-3 days depending on complexity and typically occurs near the end of the renovation.
Final plumbing and electrical connections
Licensed professionals will return to connect tapware, drains, lighting, and electrical fixtures. They’ll test all systems to verify proper function, which usually takes 1-2 days.
Cleaning, touch-ups and snagging list
After all installations, a thorough cleaning and inspection identify any minor issues needing correction. Creating and addressing a snagging list typically adds 1-2 days to ensure everything is perfect before handover.
Sample project timelines
Small refresh checklist (3–7 days)
A cosmetic update without major plumbing or electrical changes follows this general timeline:
- Day 1: Remove existing fixtures and prepare surfaces
- Days 2-3: Paint, install new vanity and simple fixtures
- Days 4-5: Complete minor tiling work if needed
- Days 6-7: Install new accessories, clean, and handover
Full renovation checklist (4–8 weeks)
A complete renovation with layout changes follows a more extensive timeline:
- Week 1: Demolition and rough-in work
- Week 2: Waterproofing and substrate preparation
- Weeks 3-4: Tiling and initial cabinetry
- Weeks 5-6: Benchtop installation and joinery completion
- Weeks 7-8: Final fixtures, connections, cleaning, and handover
Practical ways to reduce delays
To keep your bathroom renovation on schedule:
- Order all materials before demolition begins
- Choose items that are in stock locally when possible
- Complete all design decisions before work starts
- Book tradespeople well in advance
- Plan for wet weather by scheduling indoor work during rainy seasons
Conclusion
A successful bathroom renovation depends on realistic timeline expectations and thorough planning. By understanding each phase of the process, you can better prepare for the weeks ahead and make informed decisions that keep your project on track. For your next bathroom renovation, consider getting written quotes from multiple professionals, confirm all necessary permits, order long-lead items early, and maintain a project diary to track progress. If you’re looking for expert guidance and quality craftsmanship, All Cabinetry can help transform your bathroom with attention to detail and commitment to timelines. Your new bathroom isn’t just about beautiful fixtures and finishes—it’s about creating a functional space that enhances your daily routine for years to come.