A BETTER BRIEF
Planning your bathroom renovation project
Map the existing layout
Note fixture locations, whether walls or the floor will be opened, and any changes to plumbing or electrical. Moving a toilet, shower or vanity affects rough-in work and permits.
Waterproofing is non-negotiable
Ask how the shower pan, tile backing and moisture barriers are built. A cheap tile job without proper waterproofing fails within years. Request the waterproofing method in writing.
Compare complete scopes
Demolition, disposal, rough-in, waterproofing, tile, fixtures, trim, painting and cleanup should all appear. Ask who coordinates permits and inspections.
Jobs to describe in your request
- Full bathroom gut and rebuild
- Shower and tile replacement
- Vanity and fixture upgrade
- Accessible bathroom conversion
What changes the cost?
Use these factors to compare the scope of proposals. A total price alone does not show whether the same work is included.
- Scope of demolition
- Plumbing and electrical changes
- Tile and fixture quality
- Waterproofing method
- Permit and inspection fees
Ask for a written description of included work, exclusions, payment stages and how additional work is authorized. Confirm who supplies materials and what documentation or warranty terms you receive at completion.
Official resources
Check these sources and confirm requirements for your property with the responsible authority. Guidance is a starting point, not a property-specific assessment.