Bathroom Renovation Cost UK
A bathroom is a small room with a lot of trades in it. Get the layout, waterproofing and sequence right and it lasts for years. Here is how to plan one and what it should cost.
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A bathroom renovation packs plumbing, tiling, electrics, waterproofing and ventilation into a small space, which is why labour and preparation, not the suite itself, usually drive the cost. The most common expensive mistakes are skipping proper waterproofing behind tiles in wet areas, underestimating how much moving the soil pipe or services costs, and choosing a layout that looks good on paper but leaves no comfortable space to use the room. A good bathroom starts with a layout that fits real bodies and routines, proper tanking in the shower area, and adequate extraction to stop damp. Plan the layout and the hidden work first, then choose the suite and tiles to suit your budget.
What good looks like
The things worth getting right on a bathrooms project, whoever does the work.
- A layout with enough clear space to use the basin, toilet and shower comfortably.
- Proper waterproofing (tanking) behind tiles in the shower and wet areas, not just grout and sealant.
- Adequate extraction to clear steam and prevent damp and mould.
- Slip-aware floor tiles and well-sealed junctions around the bath and shower tray.
- Enough storage to keep surfaces clear, planned in rather than added later.
What it costs
These are broad, indicative guide ranges to help you set a budget, not quotes. Labour, tiling and any moving of services usually cost more than the suite. Always get an itemised quote.
Like-for-like refresh, keeping the layout, a standard suite and a modest tiled area.
New layout within the same footprint, a walk-in shower, fully tiled wet areas and better fittings.
Moving services, underfloor heating, large-format or natural stone tiling and premium brassware.
Indicative UK ranges for 2026, drawn from published cost guides (HomeOwners Alliance, Checkatrade, Which? and MyJobQuote) and rounded for budgeting, not quotes. Real costs vary by region, specification and condition, and London typically runs higher (see costs by region). The only way to know your cost is an itemised quote for your project. Last reviewed June 2026.
How to brief it well
Get this right and your quotes become comparable, and your project runs more smoothly.
- Decide whether the layout is staying or changing, as moving the toilet and soil pipe adds the most cost.
- Choose between a bath, a shower, or both, based on who uses the room and resale.
- Confirm how much of the room is being tiled, as tiling labour is a major part of the bill.
- Plan ventilation and any electrics (extractor, shaver point, heated towel rail) early.
- Give every fitter the same brief and ask for waterproofing and making-good to be specified, not assumed.
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Find a vetted bathroom specialistBathrooms: common questions
How long does a bathroom renovation take?
A typical bathroom takes around one to two weeks once materials are on site, longer if the layout changes or services move. Because trades follow each other in sequence, delays to one stage push back the rest.
Is it worth moving the toilet or bath?
It can transform a cramped room, but moving the soil pipe and waste is one of the most expensive changes you can make. Get the extra cost quoted before deciding, and weigh it against simply improving the existing layout.
Why does waterproofing matter so much?
Tiles and grout are not waterproof on their own. Without proper tanking behind them, water can reach the wall and cause damage that is expensive to put right. It is hidden work, so make sure it is specified in your quote.
How do I compare bathroom quotes fairly?
Give each fitter the same written brief and ask them to itemise the suite, tiling, waterproofing, electrics and making-good. A low headline price often leaves out tiling labour or preparation you will still have to pay for.
Related guides
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