Bathroom renovation cost in Vancouver
Quick answer
Compare demolition, plumbing changes, waterproofing system, tile labour, fixtures and allowances, permits, and condo strata costs like elevator booking and limited work hours.
Many Vancouver bathrooms are in condos and townhomes, where strata bylaws restrict work hours, require elevator bookings and deposits, and limit water shut-offs. That adds time and cost. Older detached homes bring different surprises: old plumbing and hidden rot. A fair quote spells out scope, waterproofing and allowances.
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What most people miss
Strata logistics are real costs — make sure they're listed
Elevator bookings, parking, debris removal through common areas, and shorter work days all add labour. A quote that ignores them may arrive at a change order later.
How this price is built
Demolition and disposal
Including protection of common areas in strata buildings.
Plumbing
Keeping fixtures in place vs moving drains and supply lines.
Waterproofing
Named system (sheet membrane or liquid) behind tile in wet areas.
Tile labour and materials
Square footage, tile size and pattern.
Fixtures and allowances
Vanity, toilet, tub or shower, faucets — with allowance amounts.
Electrical and ventilation
Lighting, heated floors, and a properly vented fan.
Strata and permits
Strata approval, elevator booking, City permit if required.
Timeline
Working days allowed and expected duration.
What makes a quote high
Low allowances
Allowances too low for real fixtures, guaranteeing overruns.
Missing strata costs
No line for elevator, parking or limited hours.
Moving plumbing
Relocating drains in a concrete condo slab is expensive.
Vague waterproofing
'Waterproof as required' without a named system.
Change-order heavy contracts
Low base price, expensive changes.
Itemised versus vague
A quote you can evaluate looks different from one you can't. This is what to look for, line by line.
| Item | A quote you can judge | A quote you can't |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Room-by-room scope listed | Full bathroom reno |
| Waterproofing | System named | Waterproofing included |
| Allowances | Dollar amounts per item | Fixtures included |
| Strata | Elevator, hours and deposits addressed | Not mentioned |
| Timeline | Duration and work hours stated | A few weeks |
Questions to ask before you approve
- What waterproofing system will you use?
- What are the fixture allowances, item by item?
- Have you priced strata requirements like elevator booking and work hours?
- Are any plumbing fixtures moving?
- How are change orders priced?
What to ask a Vancouver renovator
Copy these lines as they are. Politeness plus specifics gets answers.
- 1.“Please list allowances per item and the waterproofing system.”
- 2.“Have you included strata logistics?”
- 3.“How are changes priced if you find hidden damage?”
When a high price is legitimate
A higher-than-expected price isn't automatically a bad one. These are the situations where it's usually justified.
- Drains or the shower location are moved.
- Strata rules shorten work days and add logistics.
- Hidden rot or old plumbing is found in an older home.
- Higher-end tile or fixtures are chosen.
Not sure if your price is fair?
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Common questions
Do I need strata approval?
Usually yes for condo bathroom work. Check your bylaws and get approval in writing before work starts.
Do I need a City of Vancouver permit?
Plumbing and electrical changes typically need permits. Ask your contractor who obtains them.
Why is a condo bathroom often pricier than a house?
Strata logistics, limited hours and concrete-slab plumbing add labour.
Keep reading
Is this bathroom remodel quote normal?
Demolition, waterproofing, tile labour, fixture allowances and moving plumbing — where the money actually goes.
Contractor quotes
What to check across this whole category, wherever you are.
Cost per square foot calculator
A quick estimate for before you have a quote in hand.
Contractor hourly rate calculator
A quick estimate for before you have a quote in hand.
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Last reviewed September 2026. This guide explains how pricing is structured in general terms. It deliberately avoids quoting dollar figures, because fair pricing depends on your location, scope and market. Educational information only — not professional advice. See our disclaimer and browse the full cost guide library.