Bathroom renovation quote checklist
Bathroom quotes are some of the hardest to compare. Several trades are involved, much of the cost is in work you never see, and a lot hinges on allowances. Use this checklist to check each quote covers the same job.
Tip: print one copy of this list per quote and tick off what each one actually says. Anything left blank is a question to ask.
Strip-out and preparation
- Demolition of the existing bathroom
- Rubbish removal and skip bin
- Protection of floors and other rooms during the work
- Repairs to the floor or wall framing if damage is found (often a provisional sum)
Waterproofing
- Is waterproofing included, and which areas (whole floor, shower walls to what height)?
- Who does it: the builder or a specialist?
- Is a waterproofing certificate or compliance document provided? Wet-area waterproofing usually has to meet the Australian Standard, and many councils and certifiers expect paperwork. Requirements vary by state.
Plumbing and drainage
- Rough-in and fit-off, both listed
- Moving any fixtures (toilet, shower or vanity), which costs more than replacing in place
- Hot water connections, floor waste and drainage
- Licensed plumber, with compliance certificate
Electrical
- Lights, exhaust fan (ducted to outside?), power points and heated towel rail
- Licensed electrician, with compliance certificate
- Watch for "electrical by others", which means you arrange and pay separately
Tiling
- Floor and wall areas, and wall tile height (to ceiling or part height)
- Tile allowance per m², and whether it covers supply only or supply and lay
- Feature tiles, niches, trims and grout type
Fixtures and fittings
- Vanity, toilet, shower screen, tapware, mirror and accessories
- Each one: is it supplied by the builder (with a model or allowance) or by you?
- Compare the allowance amounts side by side, since low allowances make a quote look cheaper
Finishing
- Ceiling repairs, painting, door and architraves
- Silicone, final clean
Paperwork and terms
- Licence number on the quote
- Deposit amount (see deposit rules by state)
- Payment schedule, timeline, quote validity period and warranties
- Exclusions list, read every line
Questions worth asking every business
- "Is waterproofing certification included in your price?"
- "What does your tile allowance buy, and what happens if I go over it?"
- "Are plumbing and electrical included, or by others?"
- "Is rubbish removal included?"
- "What could change the price once you start?"
Comparing bathroom quotes right now?
Upload one quote to check it, or up to five to compare them (PDF or photos). Quote Unpack shows what each includes, what is missing and what to ask. The first look is free.
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General information only, not legal or building advice. Requirements differ by state and council; check with your state regulator or certifier.