Bathroom renovation costs
Costs of renovating a bathroom 2026
Renovating a bathroom costs on average between €4,550 and €13,000, depending on the scope and the chosen materials. The renovation includes work such as installing new sanitary ware, tiling, plumbing and ventilation. In this price guide, you can read about the costs of a bathroom renovation and what to look out for when renovating your bathroom.
Table of Contents
- What does a bathroom renovation cost?
- Costs of bathroom renovation per renovation scenario
- Price-determining factors for bathroom renovation
- Additional costs and surcharges for bathroom renovation
- How does the professional work during a bathroom renovation?
- How can you save on a bathroom renovation?
- Common causes for a bathroom renovation
- Find the best professional for your bathroom renovation
- Frequently asked questions about bathroom renovation
- Book a professional for your bathroom renovation
- Useful links
What does a bathroom renovation cost?
Renovating a bathroom costs on average between €4,550 and €13,000, depending on the scale of the renovation and the quality of the materials. A full bathroom renovation, where all elements are renewed, costs between €7,000 and €17,000 including labour and materials. The costs for renovating a bathroom are calculated per project and include the full package: from sanitary ware and tiles to plumbing and finishing.
Costs per activity
| Activities | Costs |
|---|---|
| Full bathroom renovation | €7,000 - €17,000 |
| Installing a bathtub | €850 - €2,800 |
| Installing a shower | €600 - €1,900 |
| Installing a toilet | €450 - €900 |
| Mounting a washbasin | €400 - €800 |
| Installing a tap | €150 - €450 |
| Laying a floor | €800 - €1,800 |
| Installing underfloor heating | €1,000 - €1,500 |
The table shows that the costs for a bathroom renovation vary greatly per component. For example, installing a toilet costs significantly less than installing a bathtub or shower. In a renovation, multiple activities are combined, which determines the total investment.
All mentioned prices include 21% VAT and labour from the affiliated professionals who carry out the job.
Costs of bathroom renovation per renovation scenario
The costs for renovating a bathroom depend on the scale of the renovation and which elements you replace. A cosmetic refresh where you only renew furniture and surfaces is cheaper than a full renovation including plumbing. Below you can see what different renovation scenarios cost.
| Renovation scenario | Costs |
|---|---|
| Installing a tap | €150 - €450 |
| Mounting a washbasin | €400 - €800 |
| Installing a toilet | €450 - €900 |
| Installing a shower | €600 - €1,900 |
| Laying a floor | €800 - €1,800 |
| Installing a bathtub | €850 - €2,800 |
| Installing underfloor heating | €1,000 - €1,500 |
| Full bathroom renovation | €7,000 - €17,000 |
Price-determining factors for bathroom renovation
The costs for renovating a bathroom are determined by several factors. Below you can read which elements influence the final price and why some renovations turn out more expensive than others.
Size of the bathroom
The larger the space, the more material and labour are required. A small bathroom of 4 square metres requires fewer tiles, plumbing and sanitary ware than a large bathroom of 10 square metres. The labour hours increase proportionally with the surface area.
Choice of materials
Standard ceramic tiles are more affordable than natural stone or premium materials. Also, with sanitary ware, it matters what you choose: a simple washbasin costs less than a designer model. These choices have a direct influence on the total costs.
Retaining or moving pipes
If you keep the existing connection points, the costs remain limited. Moving pipes means that the professional has to create new connections and break open the floor or walls, which requires more time and material.
Condition of existing infrastructure
Outdated pipes or moisture damage that becomes visible during demolition require extra work. What starts as a standard renovation can turn into repair work if adjustments are needed before the new bathroom can be installed.
Simple or luxurious
A basic version with functional materials costs less than a luxury bathroom with a rain shower, thermostatic taps or underfloor heating. The more comfort and extra functions you add, the higher the total costs will be.
Accessibility of the workplace
A bathroom on a higher floor without a lift requires more effort for transporting materials and old sanitary ware. This increases the labour costs because the job takes more time.
Urgency versus planned work
Emergency jobs are more expensive because the professional has to adjust their schedule. If you plan the renovation well in advance, you do not have to pay an emergency surcharge.
Weekends or weekdays
Work on weekends costs more due to weekend surcharges. If you have the job carried out during the week, you save on labour costs.
Permits and regulations
For most bathroom renovations, no permit is required. Only when removing load-bearing walls or making major adjustments to pipes do you need to apply for a permit. Plumbing and electrical work must be carried out by certified professionals according to the Building Decree. For rental properties, you need permission from the landlord.
Addressing problems early
Solving small problems such as leaking joints or mould growth early is more affordable than repairing major damage. Postponed maintenance leads to higher costs.
Local professionals
Local professionals can be on-site faster, which saves travel time and travel costs. This keeps the total price lower than if you have to have a professional come from far away.
Good preparation
Ensure that the workplace is clear and accessible by removing personal items beforehand. This saves the professional time and ensures they can work efficiently, which reduces labour costs.
Transparent price agreements
With an honest platform, you know in advance what you pay, without surprises afterwards. This helps you plan and budget the costs better.
Additional costs and surcharges for bathroom renovation
Additional costs depend on the situation. At Zoofy, you do not pay call-out charges.
- Emergency jobs have a surcharge because the professional has to adjust their schedule
- Weekend work costs more than work during the week
- Unexpected rot or moisture damage behind tiles that becomes visible during demolition leads to additional work
- Outdated pipes that do not meet current standards may need to be replaced
- Asbestos removal in older homes (built before 1994) requires a certified company and involves extra costs
- Disposal of rubble and old sanitary ware can involve extra costs
Factor in a buffer margin of 10-15% of the total budget for unforeseen costs.
How does the professional work during a bathroom renovation?
A bathroom renovation follows a fixed sequence of activities.
- Inventory and design: The professional discusses your wishes, takes measurements of the space and draws up a plan for the renovation.
- Planning and preparation: After approval of the quote, a schedule is made and all necessary materials are ordered.
- Stripping the old bathroom: The old tiles, sanitary ware and any floor covering are removed and disposed of.
- Adjusting plumbing and electricity: Pipes are inspected and renewed if necessary. The electricity is adjusted for new lighting and ventilation points.
- Waterproof finishing and floor finishing: The floor and splash zones receive a waterproof layer with special membranes or coatings.
- Tiling walls or other finishing: Wall tiles are placed or water-resistant paint is applied.
- Installing sanitary ware: The new toilet, washbasin, bath or shower is placed and connected to pipes and drainage.
- Finishing and cleaning: Sealing is applied, lighting is installed and the bathroom is cleaned.
A full bathroom renovation takes on average 1 to 3 weeks. Arrange an alternative showering location during the renovation, as the space is often not usable.
How can you save on a bathroom renovation?
There are several ways to lower the costs for renovating a bathroom.
- Address problems directly: Solve small problems such as mould, leaking joints or broken sealant edges immediately before they cause major damage. This prevents you from having to spend significantly more on repair work later.
- Prepare the space: Remove personal items, old silicone sealant yourself and ensure that the workplace is clear and accessible. This saves the professional time and keeps labour costs lower.
- Plan smart: Book the renovation during the week and not as an emergency to avoid weekend and emergency surcharges. This directly saves on the total costs.
- Maintain existing connection points: By keeping sanitary ware in the same place, you save on plumbing work because the professional does not have to lay new pipes.
- Invest in good ventilation: A good bathroom fan prevents mould and moisture damage, which saves future repair costs and keeps your bathroom looking good for longer.
- Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, without call-out charges and without surprises. You only pay after completion of the job.
Common causes for a bathroom renovation
A bathroom renovation is often necessary when underlying problems threaten comfort and safety.
Leaks due to outdated joints or pipes
Leaks occur when joints become porous or pipes reach the end of their lifespan. Water then seeps through walls or floors, leading to moisture damage to supporting structures and higher costs if delayed.
Mould growth due to lack of ventilation
Mould indicates structural moisture problems that do not disappear on their own. Without adequate ventilation, moisture continues to accumulate, which deteriorates air quality and affects construction materials.
Outdated water pipes
Pipes older than 15-20 years have an increased risk of leakage. Corrosion and material ageing cause weak spots to develop, with water damage as a result if these are not replaced in time.
Cracked or loose tiles
Loose tiles indicate moisture infiltration behind the wall. This can cause wood rot or mould behind the tiling, making a renovation necessary.
Find the best professional for your bathroom renovation
A reliable professional is essential for a successful bathroom renovation.
- Preventing mistakes: Incorrect installation can lead to leaks and expensive repair work. An experienced professional prevents these problems and keeps costs manageable.
- Correct certifications: Check if the professional is certified for plumbing and electrical work according to the Building Decree. This guarantees that the renovation is carried out according to the applicable standards.
- No call-out charges: At Zoofy, you never pay call-out charges, regardless of where the professional comes from.
- Fixed price in advance: You know exactly what the bathroom renovation costs, without surprises afterwards.
- Book quickly without the hassle of quotes: Directly choose a moment for your renovation without quote requests.
- Payment after completion: You only pay via QR code when the job is completely finished.
- Verified professionals: All affiliated professionals are verified for reliability and competence.
Frequently asked questions about bathroom renovation
What does a complete bathroom include installation cost?
A complete bathroom renovation costs between €7,000 and €17,000 including labour and materials. The costs depend on the size of the space, the quality of the sanitary ware and the chosen tiles.
What does a bathroom of 2 by 3 metres cost?
Renovating a bathroom of 6 square metres costs on average between €4,550 and €9,000, depending on the chosen materials and the complexity of the plumbing. This is a standard size that can be worked with efficiently.
What is a realistic budget for a bathroom?
Count on at least €7,000 for a full renovation with a basic design. For a more luxurious design with underfloor heating, a rain shower and premium materials, the costs are between €10,000 and €17,000.
How long does a bathroom renovation take on average?
A full bathroom renovation takes on average 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the scope and complexity of the work. Prepare for a period during which you cannot use the bathroom.
Can I continue to use the bathroom during the renovation?
No, during most work, the bathroom is not usable. Arrange an alternative toilet and shower space in advance, for example with family or neighbours.
Do I need a permit for a bathroom renovation?
For most bathroom renovations, no permit is required, unless you remove a load-bearing wall or relocate pipes significantly. Plumbing and electrical work must be carried out by certified professionals.
What do I do with asbestos in old bathrooms?
Asbestos occurs in homes built before 1994. Asbestos removal must be carried out by a certified company. Have this checked before you start the renovation.
What happens if hidden problems are discovered?
Hidden problems such as rot or outdated pipes can cause additional work. Therefore, maintain a buffer of 10-15% on your budget.
Is a built-in toilet more expensive than a floor-standing toilet?
Yes, a built-in toilet is generally more expensive due to the concealed cistern and the additional installation labour. The costs for a built-in toilet start from €650, while a floor-standing toilet can be installed from €450.
How important is ventilation in a bathroom renovation?
Very important. Good mechanical ventilation prevents mould, moisture damage and health problems. Invest in an extractor fan with a moisture sensor for optimal air quality and a longer lifespan for your bathroom.
Book a professional for your bathroom renovation
Ready to have your bathroom renovated? At Zoofy, you book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You see exactly what it costs in advance, and Zoofy pairs you with a reliable professional who has been verified. You only pay once the work is finished. Book a professional directly.