You’ve probably been dreaming of transforming your bathroom for some time. Perhaps you picture a spa-like sanctuary with heated floors and rainfall showers—or maybe just a space where the tiles are pristine and the grout is long gone.
But before your vision becomes reality, it’s important to understand the factors that can impact the cost and timeline of your renovation. That way, you can plan with confidence and avoid any unexpected surprises further down the line.
That’s where we come in.
Below, you’ll find advice on the key factors that influence budget, the hidden costs to watch out for, and how a renovation specialist like Pimlico Plumbers can ensure the entire process runs smoothly and efficiently. Let’s get started.
What’s the average
bathroom remodel cost?
A basic bathroom remodel for a small space usually starts from around £12,000 at Pimlico Plumbers. However, bathroom renovations vary enormously in price, with many factors influencing the overall cost.
For instance, the materials you choose, the size of your bathroom, and the complexity of the design all play a role. Any additional construction work that’s required can also add to the cost, such as layout alterations, plumbing or electrical upgrades, or knocking down walls to create space.
Ultimately, every project is unique. That’s why we recommend speaking with one of our experts for an accurate, tailored quote.
Factors influencing
bathroom remodel costs
As we’ve touched on, many factors can influence the cost of a bathroom renovation. Let’s take a closer look at what they are.
The size and layout of your bathroom
Bigger bathrooms often have bigger price tags. After all, more renovation space usually requires more tiles, more labour, and more materials.
That said, smaller bathrooms aren’t always quicker or cheaper to renovate. The layout complexity also comes into consideration. For example, redesigns that involve repositioning key fixtures (such as toilets or showers) often require additional plumbing and electrical work, which can extend the timeframe and add cost.
The quality of fixtures and fittings
Unsurprisingly, the quality of your fixtures and fittings will influence the overall cost of your renovation. While premium products come at a higher price point, they’re often a worthwhile investment. Not only do they elevate the look and feel of your bathroom, but their superior durability can also reduce the need for repairs or replacements over time.
Plumbing and pipework
If it’s been several years since you updated your bathroom, your pipework and drainage may need upgrading to meet current standards. Changing the layout, such as moving the position of your sink, can also add cost and time to the project.
Labour
Labour makes up roughly 40–60% of bathroom renovation costs. That’s why it’s crucial to choose trusted professionals who can complete the job to the highest standard.
At Pimlico Plumbers, we have every type of labour your project requires. Whether it’s an experienced plumber, a drain specialist, or a combination of tradespeople you need, having all services under one roof helps keep your project running on time and within budget.
What are the hidden costs
in bathroom renovations?
Even with a clear budget in place, it’s easy for additional expenses to creep in once the work begins. Overlooking just one detail could mean you go over budget, so it’s worth being aware of these hidden costs:
- Structural repairs: Renovation work often exposes hidden damage (especially in older homes), such as rotten joists, cracked plaster, or weak flooring. Fixing these issues can add cost.
- Removing your old bathroom: Removing an existing bathroom or its parts adds time and labour. You’ll also need to factor in waste disposal.
- Electrical work: Most plumbers aren’t certified to handle electrics. If your remodel includes new lighting, switches, or shaving points, a qualified electrician will be required.
- Permits and building regulations: Changing your bathroom’s layout or adding a new one may require Building Regulations approval. Choosing a tradesperson registered under the Competent Person Scheme (CPS) allows them to self-certify their work, saving both time and money. But if this isn’t possible, you’ll need to factor in extra budget for obtaining building regulations.
- Custom or bespoke features: Tailored elements such as built-in storage, feature lighting, or luxury finishes will often increase the total cost. Remember to include finishing touches such as plastering, painting, and decorative work in your final budget.
Smart ways to plan your
bathroom renovation budget
Planning your project wisely can save a few headaches, not to mention time and cost. Below are a few sensible ways to approach your bathroom renovation:
- Build in a contingency budget: As a rule of thumb, keep 10–20% of your budget as a reserve for unexpected costs or design adjustments.
- Have a clear idea of the brief: Avoid a long list of jobs to sort at the end of the renovation. This can add extra cost to the project. Having a clear vision can help you budget and avoid any expensive surprises.
- Finalise your budget: While it can make sense to recycle old bathroom features in some cases, in others, saving items can actually lead to more expense. For example, a cheap toilet may lead to poor performance and could need replacing further down the line. On the other hand, high-quality fixtures and fittings (such as basins) are often worth investing in as they stand the test of time without cracking or staining.
- Get professional support: Working with a trusted renovation specialist can help ensure your bathroom renovation is completed seamlessly.
At Pimlico Plumbers, we take the time to listen and understand your brief. From there, we can plan and deliver your entire project, ensuring your bathroom remodel is finished to a premium standard. Having every trade under one roof can also reduce the project length, as you won’t be relying on timelines from varying tradespeople.
Final thoughts
So, there we are—now you know the key factors that influence bathroom remodel costs, along with some practical ways to budget and plan for your dream space.
Looking for support with your renovation? We’re here to help.
Covering all 32 boroughs of London, we offer a complete range of renovation services to bring your vision to life with precision and care.
With our network of over 230 trade professionals, we can manage and deliver your renovation from start to finish. Having every trade in-house not only makes renovations more convenient, but it can also reduce the time it takes to complete your bathroom.
Already working with an architect or interior designer? That’s fine too. We can collaborate with them directly to create your dream bathroom. Or, if you’d prefer to manage the project yourself, we can act solely as your installer while you stay in control.
Whichever approach works for you, the end result is always the same: expert home renovations carried out to the highest standards. That’s the Pimlico difference, and why we’re London’s leading service for home repairs and maintenance.
