A Sydney bathroom renovation planning checklist
Create a clear project brief covering the room, priorities, products, approvals, budget and handover.
Write a project brief you can reuse
A consistent brief makes your site discussions more useful and gives each contractor the same starting point for a quote.
Describe the room as it is now, the way you'd like it to work and the limits you want the renovator to design around.
Separate essential outcomes from optional upgrades so a contractor can explain where the budget has the greatest effect.
- Property type, suburb, room dimensions and photographs.
- Who uses the room and what needs to be stored.
- Fixtures to retain, replace or relocate.
- Your planning budget and desired start period.
- Known building, strata or heritage requirements.
Resolve the layout
Measure the room with door swings, windows, plumbing points and any recesses shown.
Check the space needed to open drawers, clean beside fixtures and use the shower comfortably.
Ask the renovator to compare a retained-layout version with any major rearrangement before you commit to either approach.
Create a product schedule
- Record the brand, model, dimensions and finish of each fixture.
- Record tile size, quantity assumptions, grout and trim choices.
- Check basin and tap compatibility together.
- Confirm mirror, cabinet and lighting positions on the same drawing.
- Check lead times, delivery arrangements and return conditions.
- Agree who supplies each item and who checks it on arrival.
Before signing the contract
Read the scope against the drawings and product schedule, including anything supplied by you.
Check the process for variations, progress payments, delays and access to the property.
Ask for unresolved assumptions to be written down and make sure you're comfortable with how they will be assessed and priced.
During work and at handover
Keep decisions and variations in a single project folder and request updates at the stages agreed with the contractor.
Confirm installation details before the work is concealed where the contractor needs a decision from you, such as accessory locations or cabinet heights.
At handover, collect the final scope, invoices, relevant trade records, product warranties and cleaning instructions.
Operate the room's fittings with the contractor and write down any remaining items and their completion dates.
Turn your notes into a project brief
Use the bathroom budget planner to explore a scope, then add your room details to the Sydney renovation enquiry form.