What’s the Average Cost of a Bathroom Renovation in Sydney in 2026?

If you have been thinking about renovating your bathroom this year, you are definitely not alone. Bathroom upgrades are one of the most common home improvement projects in Sydney right now. Homeowners are looking for modern layouts, better waterproofing, improved functionality, and a little bit of everyday luxury. But the first question everyone asks is simple: how much does a bathroom renovation cost in Sydney in 2026?

Let’s answer it straight away and then unpack the details.

The average bathroom renovation in Sydney in 2026 ranges between 18,000 and 35,000 dollars for a standard-sized bathroom. If you are planning something premium or structural, it is normal for the cost to move into the 40,000 to 60,000 dollar range, especially if you choose higher-end fittings, change the layout, or your home needs remedial work before renovation can even begin.

That is the quick snapshot, but real bathrooms come with real variables. So let’s break this down properly and talk through what actually influences the cost, what you should expect in Sydney’s current market, and how to avoid the usual renovation surprises.

Bathroom renovations are not just about replacing a vanity or choosing nice tiles. Underneath the beautiful finish is a whole network of waterproofing systems, plumbing lines, structural boards, ventilation, and electrical installation. Because everything is contained in a small space, the cost per square metre for bathroom work is higher compared to other rooms in your home.

When you look at pricing, it helps to separate the renovation into the building side and the style side. The building side includes waterproofing, plumbing, electrical, sheeting and remedial work. The style side includes tiles, tapware, shower screens, lighting choices, the vanity, and all your final finishes.

Both layers influence your final cost, but the most expensive issues are usually the ones you cannot see until the room is stripped back.

Here is the general guide:

• Basic upgrade: 15,000 to 22,000 dollars
  Fresh finishes without moving plumbing or structural changes.
• Mid-range renovation: 22,000 to 35,000 dollars
  New tiles, new plumbing fixtures, waterproofing, and improved layout.
• Premium renovation: 40,000 to 60,000 dollars
  Full luxury finishes, custom joinery, heated flooring, and feature lighting.
• Structural or remedial-inclusive renovation: 45,000 to 80,000 dollars
  Includes repairs to subfloors, waterproofing failures, mould, rising damp, or significant drainage corrections.

For many Sydney homes, especially older ones in suburbs like Balmain, Ashfield, Ryde, Chatswood, or the Inner West, remedial work is very normal. Homes built before the early 2000s often need improved waterproofing or additional repairs to timber framing or flooring.

If you are unsure whether your home might need this type of work, our team explains it in detail on the Remedial Building Services page.

There are a few reasons why prices have slightly increased across Sydney this year:

1. Material and supply costs

Tiles, tapware, and waterproofing systems have increased between five and twelve per cent compared to 2024. Imported items, especially, have seen price bumps.

2. Rising labour demand

Sydney is still experiencing a high demand for qualified tradespeople, especially waterproofers and licensed plumbers. This affects the overall budget of a renovation.

3. Stricter waterproofing regulations

Newer standards mean higher quality membranes, additional layers, and better drainage planning. This improves the long-term outcome, but adds cost to the initial build.

4. Remedial repairs before renovation

Many older homes show signs of cracking, movement, leaking showers or mould, which must be repaired before the new bathroom can be installed. If you want more information, the Heritage and Restoration section on our site covers how older structures behave.

Let’s take a closer look at what typically contributes to the budget.

Demolition and preparation

Removing old tiles, fixtures and flooring usually costs between 1,500 and 3,000 dollars. Homes with older cement beds or thick render can be slightly more.

Plumbing

Relocating drainage and installing new plumbing points can cost anywhere from 2,500 to 6,000 dollars, depending on complexity. A simple like-for-like replacement is cheaper.

Electrical work

New lighting, heated towel rails, power points and exhaust fans usually fall between 1,000 and 2,500 dollars.

Waterproofing

This usually ranges from 900 to 2,500 dollars, depending on bathroom size and membrane system.

Tiling

Tiles and tiling labour generally make up one of the biggest parts of the budget. A fully tiled bathroom can cost between 5,000 and 12,000 dollars, depending on tile choice and labour detail.

Fixtures and fittings

Tapware, vanities, toilets, shower screens and accessories can range from 2,000 to 10,000 dollars or more, depending on style and brand.

Remedial or structural corrections

If subfloors need repair, walls show moisture damage, or previous waterproofing has failed, expect an additional 3,000 to 15,000 dollars, depending on severity. Our Insurance and Repair page covers this area if you want to understand what insurers may or may not cover.

While costs have risen slightly, there are smart ways to manage your spend without compromising quality.

Avoid moving plumbing if possible

Keeping the toilet, shower, and vanity in similar positions saves thousands.

Choose tiles within your budget

Tiles can range from 30 dollars per square metre to more than 200 dollars. You can get a fantastic look without going to the extreme end.

Plan lighting early

Lighting is one of the best ways to lift a bathroom without costing a fortune.

Fix issues properly the first time

Cutting corners with waterproofing or structural work almost always leads to expensive repairs later. This is why choosing an experienced builder or remedial specialist is essential.

In many Sydney suburbs, a renovated bathroom is one of the biggest value boosters. Buyers pay close attention to bathrooms and kitchens because these are the rooms that cost the most to update. A clean, modern bathroom can make a significant difference to your sale price and buyer appeal.

When You Might Need a Remedial Builder Instead of a Standard Renovation Team

Some bathrooms show deeper issues such as leaking showers, damaged membranes, rising damp or drainage failures. In these cases, it is important to engage a team that specialises in remedial construction, not just cosmetic renovations.

Ardent handles both renovations and remedial work, so if your bathroom has moisture issues or cracking, you can explore more on our Strata and Remedial pages. Fixing these issues early prevents long-term structural damage.

A standard bathroom renovation in Sydney usually takes three to six weeks from demolition to completion. Complex bathrooms or structural work may take longer, especially if custom fabrication is involved.

Is a Bathroom Renovation Worth It in Sydney Right Now?

Absolutely. A bathroom renovation not only improves your lifestyle but also adds genuine value to your home. Whether you want a compact city bathroom, a family upgrade, or a luxury retreat, 2026 is a great time to take action while the market is still strong.

By understanding the cost ranges and planning carefully, you can keep your project on budget and achieve a result that lasts for years.

If you want a bathroom that feels modern, functional and built to last, Ardent Construction can help.
Our team handles everything from waterproofing and remedial repairs to full luxury fit-outs. Every bathroom is built with care, quality and complete transparency. Visit our Renovations page.

Or enquire directly, and we will walk you through what your bathroom will cost based on your home, your goals and your style.