Bathroom Renovation in Palmerston

Make every quote in Palmerston state: strip-out and disposal, first-fix plumbing and electrical, waterproofing (product named), tiling with a per-square-metre rate and tile allowance, fittings supply (brands listed or marked as owner-supplied), and second-fix. The cheapest quote is usually the one missing a line — often waterproofing or disposal.

Around 10-20% is normal, sometimes more where custom vanities or imported fittings must be ordered up front — in that case pay the supplier invoice share, not a round 50%. Hold 5-10% back until the room has been used for a week or two and the snag list (grout gaps, silicone, door alignment) is closed.

Strip-out, then first-fix plumbing and electrics (pipes and cables in walls), then substrate preparation and waterproofing, then tiling, then second-fix (toilet, vanity, taps, shower screen, lights), then silicone and snagging. If a quote or schedule doesn't follow this order, question it — out-of-sequence work is how leaks and redone tiles happen.

Not the one being renovated — water is disconnected and the floor is out of service for most of the project. If it is your only bathroom, ask the contractor to sequence works so the toilet is usable overnight where possible, and plan for gym showers or neighbours for the tiling and waterproofing week.

The HIA Kitchens and Bathrooms Report puts the median around AUD 26,000-27,000, with budget renovations from about AUD 10,000-15,000 and premium projects AUD 35,000-80,000. Waterproofing, licensed trades, and certification requirements make Australian bathrooms pricier than comparable UK/US work.

State law prohibits unlicensed plumbing and electrical work — fines apply and your home insurance can refuse claims arising from it. DIY is fine for demolition, painting, and assembly-type tasks; everything touching water, waste, or wiring must be a licensed trade with compliance certificates.