DIY bathroom renovation checklist

Whether you’re installing a shower screen, or planning a complete makeover, bathroom renovations are not just for the DIY-er looking for an easy project. Read our checklist to ensure you’ve got a head-start. 

1. Consult with a bathroom renovation expert first

A bathroom renovation expert can often identify potential problems that you may not be aware of. This is particularly important if you're planning on moving bathroom fittings around or completing any structural work, as you could face issues with asbestos, wiring or plumbing. A one-off consultation may be well worth the money and headaches you save later on.

2. Assess the difficulty of your renovation

If you're planning on moving key bathroom fittings, turning the toilet into a shower or adding a sunken bath tub, then you're going to need a lot of help. Some parts of a bathroom renovation must be completed by a tradesperson, such as waterproofing and plumbing, but if the project becomes too difficult, you may want to leave it all to the professionals.

3. Assess your DIY renovation skills

Many people have a gung-ho attitude toward bathroom renovation and overestimate their abilities. To save yourself getting in over your head, it's important to assess your skills honestly. If you've never handled tools before, or are not a patient and methodical person, then maybe a bathroom renovation isn't a great idea for your first project.

4. Plan the time needed to complete the job

If the only time you can devote to your bathroom renovation is after work and on weekends, then your bathroom could potentially be out of action for a while, that's before factoring in the various tradespeople you'll need to organise. If it's your only bathroom, consider taking some holidays to devote some proper time to it.

5. Analyse your renovation budget with a project manager

Most people opt for a DIY renovation to try and save money, but make sure to compensate for extras in your renovation budget. First-timers often make costly mistakes and end up spending more than they'd anticipated. While a renovation project manager will cost more, at least there will be no hidden surprises along the way.

6. Compile a list of renovation resources

Consider where you're going to find the information you'll need to get the job done. Identify local resources such as hardware stores, bathroom showrooms or even the internet, and start asking questions.

Friends and family who have renovated their bathrooms are an invaluable resource and are often only too happy to share their knowledge.

Consult with a professional before you begin your bathroom renovation: