Bathroom Renovation Checklist Melbourne

A successful bathroom renovation doesn't happen by accident — it's the result of careful planning, the right builder, and clear decisions made before a single tile is removed. This checklist walks you through every stage of a bathroom renovation in Melbourne, from the first idea through to the finished product you'll love for years to come.

Stage 1: Budget & Planning

Before you contact a single builder or visit a tile showroom, get your planning foundations right.

• Set a realistic budget (including a 10–15% contingency for unexpected items)
• Research current bathroom renovation costs in Melbourne to calibrate your expectations
• Decide on your non-negotiables — the things you absolutely want — and your nice-to-haves
• Consider timing: when can you be without a bathroom for 3–6 weeks?
• Check if your renovation plans will require council permits or building approvals
• If in an apartment, check body corporate rules and approval requirements

Stage 2: Design & Inspiration

Great bathrooms start with a clear vision. Take time to define what you want before approaching builders.

• Create a mood board (Pinterest, Houzz, or magazine clippings) to capture your style
• Decide on your colour palette — neutral, bold, or natural stone tones?
• Consider your tile format (large format vs mosaic) and grout colour
• Think about shower type: frameless, semi-frameless, or fully enclosed?
• Decide on bath vs shower-only, or both
• Consider storage requirements — vanity drawers, recessed shelving, towel rails
• Think about lighting: task lighting at mirror, ambient ceiling, and feature lighting
• Consider heated towel rails and underfloor heating — far easier to install during renovation than after

Stage 3: Choosing Your Bathroom Builder

This is the most important decision you'll make. Take your time and do it properly.

• Seek recommendations from friends, family, or neighbours who have recently renovated
• Shortlist 2–3 licensed bathroom renovation contractors in Melbourne
• Check the builder's registration and appropriate category using the Building and Plumbing Commission practitioner search
• For eligible new work over $20,000 from 1 July 2026, confirm Home Warranty and the Notice of Cover; earlier DBI policies remain under their original terms
• Review their portfolio of completed bathroom renovations similar to your scope
• Ask about their waterproofing system and warranty
• Ask whether they use in-house trades or subcontractors
• Request detailed written quotes from at least 2 builders
• Compare quotes on like-for-like scope — not just the bottom-line price

Stage 4: Material Selection

Once you've engaged your builder, it's time to make the detailed material selections. Your builder should guide you through this process.

• Floor tiles: confirm the slip-resistance classification suitable for the particular wet area and application, plus size, colour and grout
• Wall tiles: size, format, finish (matte or gloss), feature wall options
• Vanity: size, number of basins, drawer configuration, material
• Basin: undermount, above-counter, or integrated
• Tapware: brand, finish (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black)
• Toilet: close-coupled, wall-hung, or back-to-wall; rimless recommended
• Shower screen: frameless, semi-frameless, pivot or sliding door
• Bath (if applicable): freestanding, built-in, or drop-in; material (acrylic vs stone resin)
• Mirror and mirror cabinet configuration
• Exhaust fan: ensure adequate capacity for the room size
• Accessories: toilet roll holder, towel rail, hook placement

Stage 5: Contract & Pre-Construction

• Review the Major Domestic Building Contract carefully before signing
• Ensure all selected materials and fixtures are specified in the contract
• Confirm the deposit and progress payment schedule complies with the contract and current Victorian requirements
• Confirm start date, anticipated duration, and key milestones
• Arrange alternative bathroom access if needed (gym membership, neighbour, etc.)
• Clear the bathroom of all personal items before start date
• Ensure your builder has obtained any required building permits before work commences

Stage 6: During Construction

• Agree on communication expectations — daily updates, weekly site visits, or as-needed?
• Flag any concerns in writing (email) promptly — don't let issues fester
• Ask your builder to document waterproofing installation and any inspections or certificates required for your project
• Review tile layouts before grouting if you have any concerns about pattern alignment
• Confirm all fixtures match your specifications before installation
• Keep a punch list of minor items to be rectified before final payment

Stage 7: Final Handover

• Complete a thorough walk-through with your builder before making final payment
• Check all taps and plumbing for leaks
• Test all electrical items: lighting, exhaust fan, heated towel rail, underfloor heating
• Check all tiles for any cracked, hollow-sounding, or lippage issues
• Inspect silicon joints: should be neat, consistent, and without gaps
• Confirm you've received all warranties in writing: waterproofing, fixtures, appliances
• Confirm all permits have been signed off by the relevant building surveyor
• File all documentation: contract, receipts, warranties, permit certificates

Ready to Start Your Melbourne Bathroom Renovation?

Use this checklist as your guide and you'll be well-prepared for a smooth, successful project. The most important first step is choosing the right bathroom renovation contractor in Melbourne — one who is licensed, insured, transparent about costs, and committed to quality from waterproofing through to the final fixture.

At Brownlow Building, we guide clients through scoping, selections, pre-construction documentation and building works. Project timing and costs are confirmed against the agreed scope and contract.

Book your free consultation today or call us on (03) 8351 5753.