How long does a bathroom renovation usually take in Canberra?
If you're planning a bathroom renovation in Canberra, one of the first questions that naturally comes to mind is “How long is this actually going to take?”
A bathroom renovation is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make to your home, but it also requires precise planning, multiple trades, sequencing, and coordination. As a result, timelines can vary, but with the right renovation team, the process becomes far more predictable and stress-free.
Below, we break down the typical timeframe for a Canberra bathroom renovation and what factors can influence your schedule.
Typical timeframe for bathroom renovations in Canberra
On average, a standard bathroom renovation in Canberra takes 3–6 weeks from demolition to completion. However, the total project, from initial consultation to final clean, often spans 6–10 weeks depending on design, approvals, material choices, and contractor availability.
Here’s a closer look at the timeline:
Stage-by-stage breakdown
1. Initial consultation & design (1 to 3 weeks)
This stage includes:
Site inspection
Design discussions
Layout planning
Material selections
Preparation of quotes and 3D concepts (if provided)
If you're decisive with design choices, this stage can move quickly. If you need more time to compare tiles, fittings, or layouts, it can extend the process, but usually for the better.
2. Approvals & ordering materials (1 to 2 weeks)
Some bathroom renovations require:
Structural approvals
Waterproofing certificates
Plumbing adjustments
Custom vanity or stone orders
Lead times for custom fixtures (especially vanities, mirrors, or special tiles) can influence when work begins.
3. Demolition (2 to 4 days)
Removing old tiles, fixtures, and fittings is typically fast unless:
Asbestos is found (common in older Canberra homes)
Plumbing surprises are uncovered
Hidden structural issues appear
Professional companies plan for these possibilities and communicate early.
4. Plumbing & electrical rough-in (3 to 5 days)
Once the space is stripped back, trades install:
New pipework
Drainage adjustments
Electrical wiring
Lighting changes
This forms the "backbone" of your new bathroom.
5. Carpentry & preparing the space (1 to 3 days)
This may include:
Wall framing adjustments
Subfloor repairs
Re-sheeting walls
Installing niches or shelving structures
This stage helps ensure the room is perfectly prepared for waterproofing and tiling.
6. Waterproofing (2 to 3 days) (includes drying time)
Waterproofing is essential and must meet Australian Standards. Drying time between coats is crucial, it’s one area you never want rushed.
7. Tiling (1 to 2 weeks)
Tiling is often the longest part of the renovation, especially for:
Large format tiles
Natural stone
Mosaic features
Full-height wall tiling
Precision takes time, and quality tiling dramatically affects the final look.
8. Fixtures, fittings & final trades (3 to 7 days)
This includes installation of:
Vanity
Shower screens
Tapware
Toilet
Bath
Mirrors & lighting
Cabinetry
Accessories
The room really starts to come together here.
9. Cleaning, final checks & handover (1 to 2 days)
To complete the renovation, the team will:
Clean the entire space
Check all waterproofing, plumbing and electrical work
Ensure everything is functional and compliant
Walk you through your new bathroom
Factors that influence renovation duration
Every bathroom is different, and timelines can vary based on:
Complexity of the design
Size of the bathroom
Custom vs standard materials
Age of the home
Unexpected structural or plumbing issues
Availability of trades
Changes made during the renovation
Working with an organised, experienced renovation company significantly reduces delays.
While bathroom renovations in Canberra typically take 3–6 weeks from demolition to completion, the real difference comes down to the renovation company you choose. A skilled, well-organised team will keep the project on schedule, communicate clearly, and minimise disruptions, turning what could be a stressful process into an enjoyable one.
The Bathroom Co excels in this area, offering a renovation experience that’s not only timely but thoughtfully managed from start to finish. Their team coordinates every stage (from design to handover) with precision, ensuring trades are sequenced efficiently and your home is treated with care.
Because they’re deeply familiar with Canberra homes, regulations and suppliers, The Bathroom Co can provide accurate timelines, realistic expectations, and smooth project delivery. Their commitment to communication and craftsmanship means you always know what’s happening and when, giving you confidence that your renovation will stay on track.
If you’re planning a bathroom makeover and want a team that values punctuality, quality, and a stress-free process, The Bathroom Co is a trusted local choice with a proven track record of delivering beautiful bathrooms, on time and on budget.