Do’s and Don’ts When Doing Bathroom Plumbing Renovations
Thinking about renovating your bathroom? It’s an exciting project, but when plumbing is involved, there’s a lot that can go wrong if you’re not careful.
From unexpected leaks to costly mistakes, even small errors can turn into major headaches down the track. That’s why it’s so important to know what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to bathroom plumbing.
Whether you’re planning a full renovation or just updating a few fixtures, getting the plumbing right is essential for both function and comfort.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key do’s and don’ts to keep your project running smoothly, safely and within budget. With a little planning and the right advice, you can create a bathroom that looks great and works perfectly.
Do: Plan Your Layout Carefully
Before you start ripping out tiles or buying new fittings, take the time to carefully plan your bathroom layout. A well-thought-out design can save you money, prevent plumbing issues and make your bathroom more functional in the long run.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Stick to existing plumbing lines – Moving pipes can be expensive and complicated. If possible, design your new layout around existing connections.
- Think about flow and space – Make sure there’s enough room to comfortably move between the shower, toilet and vanity.
- Consider future-proofing – Think about long-term needs, like accessibility or growing families.
- Don’t block ventilation or lighting – Plan around windows, fans, and light sources for comfort and efficiency.
- Run your ideas past a plumber – A licensed plumber can help flag potential issues before you commit to a layout.
Good planning sets the stage for a smooth renovation.
Don’t: Move Plumbing Without Expert Advice
Thinking about shifting your toilet or relocating the shower? It might seem like a great idea for improving your bathroom’s layout, but moving plumbing is more complex than it looks.
Here’s why you should always get expert advice first:
- It can get expensive fast – Relocating pipes, especially for toilets and drains, often requires cutting into floors and walls.
- You risk causing leaks or water pressure issues – Poorly rerouted plumbing can lead to long-term problems.
- It might not meet local plumbing codes – Unapproved changes could lead to failed inspections or insurance issues.
- Drainage needs careful planning – Pipes must be installed at specific angles to allow for proper flow.
- You could damage existing infrastructure – Hitting a pipe or cable you didn’t know was there can lead to major repairs.
Before making any changes, talk to a licensed plumber. It could save you time, money and stress.
Do: Choose Quality Fixtures and Materials
When it comes to bathroom plumbing renovations, it’s tempting to go for the cheapest taps, showerheads or pipes to save a few bucks. But trust us − quality matters.
Cheaper fixtures might look fine at first, but they often wear out faster, leak, or corrode, which means more repairs (and expenses) down the line. Investing in good-quality taps, showerheads and even pipes can make a huge difference to the lifespan and performance of your bathroom.
Look for fixtures made from durable materials like brass or stainless steel and choose well-known brands that offer warranties. These products are designed to withstand daily use and water exposure, giving you peace of mind and less maintenance in the long run.
Plus, many high-quality options also come with water-saving features that can help lower your water bill. So, spending a bit more upfront really pays off over time.
Don’t: Ignore Proper Ventilation
One big mistake many people make during bathroom renovations is forgetting about ventilation. It might not be as exciting as picking tiles or tapware, but it’s just as important − especially when plumbing is involved.
Bathrooms get steamy and damp and can include a toilet, and without proper airflow, that moisture can lead to mould, mildew and even damage to your walls and fixtures over time.
Good ventilation helps keep your bathroom dry and your plumbing in better shape. If you’re renovating, consider installing or upgrading an exhaust fan.
Make sure it’s powerful enough for the size of your space and that it vents to the outside − not just into your roof cavity. If you’re lucky enough to have a window, use it. Even cracking it open during showers can help reduce moisture.
Ignoring ventilation might save you a few dollars now, but it can cost you a lot more in repairs and air quality issues later.
Do: Get the Right Permits
When it comes to bathroom plumbing renovations, it’s easy to get caught up in design choices and forget about the paperwork. But getting the proper permits is a must – especially if you’re changing plumbing, drainage, or structural elements. Here’s why:
- It keeps your renovation legal – Local councils often require permits for plumbing work, especially if you’re moving fixtures or altering water lines.
- It ensures work meets safety standards – Permits help guarantee everything is up to code, reducing the risk of future issues.
- You’ll avoid fines or forced rework – Unpermitted work can result in penalties or even being told to redo the job.
- It protects your insurance – If something goes wrong later, unapproved work might not be covered.
- It adds value to your home – Buyers and inspectors will appreciate that everything was done properly and officially.
Always check local requirements before getting started – it’s worth it.
Don’t: Forget to Shut Off the Water
It might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to shut off the water before starting plumbing work – and end up with an unexpected indoor pool.
Before touching any pipes or fixtures, make sure you’ve taken this simple (but essential) step. Here’s why:
- It prevents water damage – One loose fitting can send water spraying across the room.
- You’ll avoid slipping hazards – Wet floors and tools don’t mix well with safety.
- It makes your job easier – Working on dry pipes is far less stressful and messy.
- You can isolate just the bathroom – If your home has isolation valves, you might not need to shut off the whole house.
- It protects new materials – Keeping everything dry during installation helps prevent mould and damage.
Double-check those valves before you start. A few seconds now can save hours of clean-up later.
Do: Hire Licensed Professionals
Bathroom plumbing might look straightforward, but one wrong move can lead to major problems. That’s why hiring licensed professionals is one of the smartest decisions you can make during a renovation.
Here’s why it’s worth it:
- They know the regulations – Licensed plumbers understand local codes and standards, so your work will be safe and legal.
- They have the right tools and training – Professionals can tackle tricky jobs that would stump even the most confident DIYer.
- You’ll avoid costly mistakes – A simple error with pipes or waterproofing can lead to leaks, mould or even structural damage.
- Their work is usually guaranteed – Licensed tradespeople often provide warranties for peace of mind.
- It saves time and stress – Letting an expert handle the hard stuff means fewer headaches for you.
When it comes to plumbing, DIY isn’t always worth the risk. Leave it to the pros.
Don’t: Cut Corners on Waterproofing
Waterproofing might seem like one of those “behind-the-scenes” jobs, but it’s absolutely crucial in any bathroom renovation − especially when plumbing is involved.
Skipping steps or using low-quality waterproofing materials can lead to serious issues like leaks, mould and structural damage. These problems often go unnoticed until it’s too late, turning your fresh renovation into a costly nightmare.
Every wet area in your bathroom − especially around showers, baths, and floors − needs to be properly sealed to keep water where it belongs. Waterproofing should always be done by a qualified professional who knows local building codes and uses the right products for the job.
It’s one of those things where you really get what you pay for, so don’t be tempted to rush or DIY it. Spending the time and money on proper waterproofing now means a longer-lasting renovation and far fewer headaches down the track. It’s 100% worth it.
Save Time, Money and Stress
Renovating your bathroom can be an exciting project, but it’s important to approach the plumbing side of things with care. The right choices − from using quality materials to hiring licensed professionals − can make all the difference between a smooth renovation and a costly disaster.
Planning ahead, getting the right permits, and understanding when to call in the experts will save you time, money and stress. And don’t forget the little things, like shutting off the water or ensuring proper ventilation − they matter more than you might think.
By keeping these do’s and don’ts in mind, you’ll be on your way to creating a bathroom that’s not only beautiful but also built to last. When in doubt, always seek professional advice. It’s a small step that can make your renovation journey a whole lot easier.
Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See Cyber Plumbers’ Terms & Conditions here.
FAQs About Bathroom Renovations
Do you have any questions about doing bathroom renovations? If you do, we’ve got answers to some of the most commonly asked questions right here.
Yes − especially if you’re moving or installing new plumbing. Even small changes like replacing a toilet or shower can affect your home’s water system. A licensed plumber ensures everything is done safely, to code, and won’t cause problems later. DIY mistakes can be costly, so it’s worth getting a pro involved.
Absolutely. Keeping your plumbing in the same place is one of the best ways to cut renovation costs. Moving pipes or drains can get expensive fast. If your current layout works well, try to design around it − it’ll save you time, money, and hassle.
It depends on the size of the job, but most plumbing work in a bathroom renovation takes anywhere from a few days to a week. Unexpected issues can pop up, so always allow a little extra time in your schedule.
