How long does a bathroom renovation take?
Most full renovations take two to four weeks on site. Pick your job to see how long to hire.
2 to 4 weekson site for a full renovation with the same layout
Renovation hire calculator
Two questions. It works as you click.
The bathroom is out of action for most of the build. The calculator says how long to hire a toilet or ensuite for, and roughly what it costs.
Typical bathroom renovation times
| Job | On site | Hire for |
|---|---|---|
| A re-tile or refresh, same layout | 1.5-3 weeks | 4 weeks |
| A full renovation, same layout | 2-4 weeks | 5 weeks |
| A full renovation that moves plumbing | 3-5 weeks | 6 weeks |
| A big or structural job | 3-6 weeks | 7 weeks |
Ranges run from the shorter of two Sydney bathroom builders' published figures to the longer. The design and ordering stage, usually 1 to 3 weeks before work starts, doesn't need a hire.
What stretches it
- Hidden water damage or rot, common in homes built before 2000: a few extra days.
- Tiles or a custom vanity that arrive late. Order them before demolition starts, not after.
- Changes of mind halfway through: a day or more each.
- Apartments: strata approval delays the start, not the build, so don't book the hire until you have it.
Toilet only, or a full ensuite?
If there's a second toilet in the house, you may only need a shower. If it's your only bathroom, an ensuite gives you a toilet, shower and basin in one unit. It needs a water connection and somewhere for the waste to go, which the hire company will check.