Bathroom Renovations

Permits may be required if your bathroom renovation involves plumbing, electrical, or structural changes. Cosmetic updates typically do not require permits.
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Permit requirements vary by municipality, and we can help confirm what applies to your project and manage the process when needed.

A full bathroom renovation in the Kitchener–Waterloo area generally ranges from $25,000 to $40,000+. The total investment depends on the scope of work, the finishes you choose, and whether any major changes are involved.
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Key factors that influence cost include:
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• Plumbing and waterproofing
  Updating plumbing, installing proper waterproofing, and ensuring everything meets current building codes is a significant part of most bathroom renovations.
• Tile, flooring, and finishes
  Tile selection, flooring type, shower surrounds, and premium fixtures can significantly affect the overall cost depending on material choices.
• Vanity and storage
  Custom or semi-custom vanities, storage solutions, and countertops play a major role in both functionality and budget.
• Layout changes
  Moving plumbing fixtures, altering the layout, or expanding the footprint of the bathroom increases labour, material, and permitting costs.
• Electrical and ventilation
  Lighting upgrades, heated floors, ventilation fans, and code-compliant electrical work often need to be updated in older homes.
• Skilled labour
  Licensed trades ensure the bathroom is built correctly, safely, and to last, which is critical in moisture-heavy environments.
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Every project is unique. At Carbery Construction, we provide detailed proposals with allowances for finishes such as tile, flooring, vanities, and fixtures. This approach gives you flexibility to select materials that align with both your design preferences and your budget, without unexpected surprises.

In most cases, the bathroom being renovated will be unavailable during key phases of construction. If you have a second bathroom, you can usually remain in your home comfortably.
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If you only have one bathroom, we will discuss scheduling options and possible temporary solutions during planning.

A typical bathroom renovation in the Kitchener–Waterloo area takes 4 to 8 weeks once construction begins. The exact timeline depends on the scope of the project.
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• Straightforward updates typically take 4 to 6 weeks.
• More complex renovations involving layout changes, plumbing or electrical upgrades, or extensive tile work often take 6 to 8 weeks or longer.
• Permits and inspections, if required, can add additional time before or during construction.
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Early planning allows time to coordinate materials, selections, permits, and trades in advance, helping reduce delays once work begins.

Start by defining the scope of your renovation and identifying your priorities. Bathroom budgets can vary widely based on finishes, plumbing changes, and layout complexity.
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• Define your scope early
• Identify must-have features
• Set realistic finish allowances
• Plan a contingency for older homes
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We provide detailed proposals with clear allowances so you can make informed decisions throughout the process.