A planning example, with the scope in view
A main bathroom or ensuite with a detailed selection schedule, with layout changes assessed and priced individually.
Use this model to organise your brief, then compare the contractor's written inclusions against it.
It isn't a market average, a fixed package or an offer to perform building work.
Compare the full budget guide, the complete renovation scope and the cost calculator.
Example allowance breakdown
The figures below show how this model distributes the budget.
| Item | Illustrative allowance |
|---|---|
| Design and selections | $2,500 |
| Demolition and disposal | $3,000 |
| Preparation and waterproofing | $4,500 |
| Tile supply and installation | $9,500 |
| Joinery and benchtop | $6,500 |
| Bath, shower and toilet fixtures | $6,000 |
| Tapware supply | $3,000 |
| Plumbing installation | $4,000 |
| Lighting and electrical installation | $2,000 |
| Painting and finishing | $1,500 |
| Contingency allowance | $7,500 |
Priorities for this example
- Design and selection allowance
- Demolition, preparation and waterproofing
- An expanded tile supply and installation allowance
- Joinery and benchtop allowance
- Bath, shower and toilet fixtures
- Tapware, plumbing and electrical allowances
- Finishing and a contingency
Scope to price separately
- Major structural work priced against a separate design
- Extensive service relocations assessed separately
- Specialist stone fabrication compared as an optional selection
- Building-specific approvals and additional professional fees confirmed in the quote
Assumptions behind this model
- The design is agreed before custom items are ordered.
- Selected products and fabrication fit the stated allowances.
- Major structural work sits outside this example and needs its own assessment.
Illustrative allocation in AUD including GST where applicable.
The items add up to the stated budget, including contingency; they're planning allowances rather than market averages, a package price or a contractor quote.
Illustrative construction window after approvals, final design and product availability are confirmed.
Ask the contractor for the programme that applies to your room.
Questions to take to the renovator
- Which custom items deliver the most useful improvement?
- Are samples and product specifications included in the selection process?
- How do delivery times affect the proposed programme?
- Does the quote separate custom fabrication from installation?
Make the written quote comparable
Ask whether GST, delivery, demolition, disposal, protection, making good and provisional sums are included.
Confirm who supplies fixtures and how changes are approved and priced.
For an apartment, include building access, common-area protection and the strata approval process in the brief.
Read the NSW strata renovation guidance with your strata manager.
Further reading
- Check a NSW builder or tradesperson licence
- NSW planning approval pathways
- NSW strata renovation rules
Budget questions
What does this $50,000 budget represent?
This $50,000 example adds design and joinery allowances while keeping the full construction scope visible.
The model lets you compare spending on tiles, cabinetry, a bath, shower fittings and lighting within the same total.
The contractor still needs to assess the existing room, services and chosen products before quoting.
Is this a quote for my bathroom?
This is an illustrative budget exercise. A contractor needs to assess your property, scope, access and selections before quoting.
How should I allow for timing?
Ask the renovator for a project-specific schedule that includes ordering, approvals, trade sequencing and curing requirements.