For most Melbourne homeowners, the bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. It’s where your day begins, where you unwind, and in many homes, it’s also the space that makes or breaks a buyer’s impression when you decide to sell.
But when I sit down with clients from suburbs like Berwick, Springvale, or Doncaster, the first question they ask me is always the same:
“Ali, how much will a bathroom renovation cost?”
It’s a fair question. Renovating a bathroom isn’t a small job, and no one wants to start without knowing what they’re up for. The truth is, costs vary widely depending on the size of your bathroom, the type of finishes you choose, and how much work needs to be done behind the scenes. Over the years, I’ve worked on compact ensuites in Richmond apartments that cost under $15,000, as well as large family bathrooms in Glen Waverley that topped $35,000.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the real costs of bathroom renovations in Melbourne, what drives those costs up (or down), and how to plan a renovation that balances your budget with your lifestyle.
Why Bathroom Renovation Costs Vary So Much
Let’s be honest — you could ask three different builders in Melbourne for a bathroom renovation quote and get three completely different numbers. Why? Because there are several moving parts that affect the final price.
For example, I recently worked on a 1970s brick home in Box Hill. The owners thought it would be a simple renovation — new tiles, vanity, and shower screen. But once we started, we found old plumbing that wasn’t compliant with today’s standards and water damage behind the shower wall. Those hidden issues added $3,000 to the budget.
On the other hand, a young couple in Berwick wanted a basic refresh before putting their townhouse on the market. Because we kept the plumbing layout the same and chose mid-range finishes, the project stayed under $16,000.
That’s why it’s important to understand what actually affects the cost:
- Size of the bathroom – A small ensuite will naturally cost less than a large family bathroom, though costs per square metre can still be high.
- Scope of work – Are you just updating the look, or completely redesigning the layout?
- Quality of finishes – Tiles, vanities, and fixtures vary massively in price.
- Underlying issues – Older homes often come with plumbing, wiring, or waterproofing problems.
- Your builder’s process – Some quotes leave things out, while others (like ours at HRE OZ) include everything upfront so you don’t get nasty surprises.
Real Cost Ranges for Melbourne Bathrooms
To give you a clearer idea, here’s what most of my clients spend on bathroom renovations:
Budget Renovations – from $12,000 to $18,000
These are usually for small bathrooms or quick updates. You keep the layout the same, choose standard tiles, and install an off-the-shelf vanity and fittings. Perfect if you’re preparing a property for sale or just want a clean, modern look without overspending.
Example: A Springvale townhouse ensuite where we updated tiles, swapped the vanity, and added a frameless shower screen for $14,500.
Mid-Range Renovations – $18,000 to $28,000
This is the most common option for Melbourne families. It usually includes full retiling, a quality vanity, new shower or bath, updated lighting, and sometimes small layout changes. It’s about creating a bathroom that feels stylish and functional without going overboard.
Example: A Berwick family bathroom renovation came in at $24,000. We added custom cabinetry, quality tiles, a new bath, and improved lighting. The owners told me it completely changed how their mornings felt.
Premium Renovations – $28,000+
This is where you’re creating a true luxury space. Think custom stone vanities, freestanding baths, designer tapware, underfloor heating, and sometimes even skylights or feature walls. Costs can easily push above $40,000 for larger homes or high-end finishes.
Example: In Doncaster, a luxury bathroom with a walk-in shower, freestanding bath, stone benchtops, and full-height tiles came in at $38,000. It was an investment, but the home’s value jumped significantly.
Hidden Costs Many Homeowners Forget
One of the reasons I always recommend working with an experienced renovator is that bathroom projects often come with surprises. Some of the most common hidden costs I see in Melbourne include:
- Plumbing upgrades – Outdated or damaged pipes that need replacing.
- Electrical rewiring – Older homes often need extra work to meet safety standards.
- Asbestos removal – Common in homes built before the 1990s.
- Waterproofing – Non-negotiable in every bathroom, yet many homeowners forget to budget for it.
- Custom carpentry – Built-in shelves, niches, or unusual layouts can add extra cost.
When I quote a bathroom, I make sure clients are aware of these possibilities upfront. That way, there are no nasty shocks halfway through the build.
How to Keep Your Bathroom Renovation on Budget
After renovating dozens of bathrooms across Melbourne, here’s the advice I always give clients:
- Plan your layout early – Moving plumbing is one of the biggest cost drivers, so stick to the existing layout if possible.
- Decide where to splurge – Invest in things you’ll use every day (like tapware and storage) and be flexible with cosmetic features like tiles.
- Get a detailed quote – Make sure everything is included, from demolition to tiling to electrical. At HRE OZ, our quotes are transparent and itemised.
- Work with licensed trades – A cheap renovation today can cost double to fix in a few years if it’s not done properly.
FAQs Homeowners in Melbourne Ask About Bathroom Renovation Costs
Can I renovate my bathroom for under $10,000?
Honestly, not if you want a full renovation with waterproofing and tiling. A proper job in Melbourne usually starts around $12,000. Anything less often means corners are being cut.
How long does a bathroom renovation take?
Most projects take 3–5 weeks. Smaller updates can be quicker, but older homes may take longer if unexpected issues arise.
Will a bathroom renovation add value to my home?
Will a bathroom renovation add value to my home?
Yes — bathrooms and kitchens are the two rooms buyers care about most. A modern bathroom can add significant value, especially in competitive Melbourne suburbs.
Do you handle everything — plumbing, electrical, tiling?
Yes. At HRE OZ, we coordinate the whole project so you don’t have to juggle multiple trades.
What’s the most common mistake homeowners make?
Underestimating costs and focusing only on looks. Functionality and waterproofing are just as important as tiles and fittings.
Final Thoughts
A bathroom renovation in Melbourne is an investment — not just in your home’s value, but in your daily comfort. Whether you’re after a simple refresh or a luxury upgrade, understanding the costs upfront helps you make smarter decisions.
At HRE OZ, I’ve helped families across Melbourne — from compact apartments in Richmond to large homes in Berwick and Box Hill — create bathrooms that are modern, practical, and built to last.
If you’re thinking about renovating your bathroom and want a clear, upfront quote, get in touch today. I’ll sit down with you, listen to your needs, and guide you through the process without the guesswork.