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Cost GuidesUpdated May 2026By TradeMatch Editorial Team·28 February 2026·Updated 12 April 2026·7 min read
Bathroom Renovation Cost Guide: What to Expect in 2026
A bathroom renovation can transform your home, but costs vary enormously depending on the scope of work. This guide breaks down what to expect at every budget level.
Bathroom Renovation Costs by Budget Level
| Budget Level | Cost Range | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Budget refresh | £1,500–£3,500 | New taps, toilet seat, re-grout, paint, new accessories |
| Mid-range renovation | £5,000–£10,000 | New suite (bath, toilet, basin), tiling, new flooring, updated plumbing |
| High-end renovation | £10,000–£20,000 | Designer fittings, underfloor heating, walk-in shower, bespoke storage |
| Wet room conversion | £6,000–£12,000 | Full waterproofing, level-access shower, specialist drainage |
Labour Costs Breakdown
- Bathroom fitter: £200–£350/day (main trades person)
- Plumber: £150–£300/day (pipe work, connections)
- Tiler: £200–£400/day (walls and floor)
- Electrician: £200–£350/day (lighting, fan, shaver socket)
A typical mid-range bathroom takes 1–2 weeks to complete, so labour alone can account for £2,000–£5,000 of the total cost.
Money-Saving Tips
1. Keep the existing layout — Moving the toilet, bath or basin means re-routing waste pipes, which adds significant cost
2. Choose mid-range sanitaryware — Brands like Roca and Ideal Standard offer excellent quality without the designer price tag
3. Tile smartly — Full-height tiling is expensive. Consider tiling key areas (shower, splashback) and painting the rest
4. Get multiple quotes — On TradeMatch, you can compare up to 5 quotes from vetted bathroom fitters for free
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a bathroom renovation take?
A straightforward renovation typically takes 1–2 weeks. A full strip-out with new plumbing and electrics can take 2–3 weeks. Wet room conversions may take longer due to waterproofing curing times.
Do I need planning permission for a bathroom renovation?
No, internal bathroom renovations do not require planning permission. However, if you are adding a new bathroom in a location where there was not one before, you may need building regulations approval for drainage and ventilation.
Can I renovate my bathroom on a tight budget?
Yes. A budget refresh (new taps, re-grout, paint, new accessories) can be done for £1,500–£3,500 and makes a significant difference. Painting tiles, replacing silicone sealant and adding new lighting are all low-cost improvements.
Need a professional?
Get free, no-obligation quotes from vetted tradespeople on TradeMatch.