How Much Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost in the UK?
A full bathroom renovation in the UK typically costs between £5,000 and £18,000, depending on size, quality of sanitaryware, and whether you're reconfiguring the layout. This guide breaks down every cost element so you can budget with confidence.
What Affects Your Bathroom Renovation Cost
Three factors drive the cost of any bathroom renovation more than anything else:
- Bathroom size — measured in square metres. A small cloakroom costs a fraction of a master suite.
- Quality of sanitaryware — budget IKEA suites cost a few hundred pounds; premium brands like Villeroy & Boch run into thousands.
- Project scope — a simple refresh (new suite + redecorate) is far cheaper than moving drains and converting to a wet room.
Average Bathroom Renovation Cost by Size
| Bathroom Size | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloakroom / WC (< 3 m²) | £1,500–£3,000 | £3,000–£5,000 | £5,000–£9,000 |
| Small (3–6 m²) | £3,000–£6,000 | £6,000–£10,000 | £10,000–£16,000 |
| Standard (6–10 m²) | £5,000–£9,000 | £9,000–£14,000 | £14,000–£22,000 |
| Large (10–15 m²) | £8,000–£13,000 | £13,000–£20,000 | £20,000–£35,000 |
Cost Breakdown by Item
Here's what typically makes up a bathroom renovation budget:
- Suite and sanitaryware — budget from £400; mid-range £900–£2,500; premium £2,500–£6,000
- Tiling (walls and floors) — typical bathroom £800–£2,500 depending on tile choice and area
- Labour and fitting — typically £2,000–£6,000 for a full renovation including tradespeople
- Plumbing reconfiguration — if you're moving the toilet, bath or shower, budget £600–£2,000
- Electric underfloor heating — £400–£1,500 depending on area covered
- Extractor fan and lighting — £150–£500
- Decoration and accessories — mirrors, towel rails, shelving: £200–£800
Refresh vs Full Renovation vs Wet Room
The scope of work has the biggest impact on cost:
- Bathroom refresh (£3,000–£6,000) — new suite, redecorate, new taps. No moving of plumbing.
- Full renovation (£7,000–£15,000) — new suite, full tiling, plumbing reconfiguration, new flooring.
- Wet room conversion (£12,000–£22,000+) — tanked floor, drainage changes, full waterproofing, premium finishes.
Regional Cost Differences
Labour rates vary significantly across the UK. London is typically 35–40% more expensive than the national average for bathroom fitting. Scotland and the North East tend to be the most affordable regions for bathroom tradespeople.
How to Budget Accurately
- Always get at least three written quotes from different tradespeople
- Add a 10% contingency on top of your budget for unexpected issues
- Factor in the cost of alternative bathroom facilities while work is underway
- Consider whether you'll be living in the property during the work
- Remember that removing an old suite has disposal costs — factor in £100–£300
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