Renovating a bathroom isn’t just tiles and taps. If you’re budgeting for a Dublin bathroom upgrade, here are the hidden costs to expect — and smart ways to avoid nasty surprises.
Why Hidden Costs Happen
Bathrooms are small rooms with complex work behind the scenes. Once we strip back tiles and fixtures, we sometimes uncover issues with plumbing, electrics, structure, or moisture that weren’t visible at survey stage. The good news? With the right team and a clear scope, most of these risks can be minimised or eliminated.
Common Hidden Costs (and How to Manage Them)
| Potential Extra | What It Is | How to Reduce the Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Upgrades | Old pipework, undersized wastes, poor water pressure. | Thorough survey; plan falls to waste; allow for new pipe runs where layout changes. |
| Electrical Compliance | Additional circuits, RCD protection, IP-rated lights/fans. | Use qualified electricians; specify fan & lighting early; include compliance in the quote. |
| Substrate & Levelling | Uneven walls/floors needing boarding, levelling or strengthening. | Check levels at survey; choose suitable tile format; include prep allowances. |
| Waterproofing (Tanking) | Full shower area waterproofing and proper falls to tray/drain. | Make tanking non-negotiable; specify the system in the contract. |
| Hidden Moisture/Damage | Rot, mould, or damaged plaster behind tiles. | Ventilation upgrade; moisture checks at strip-out; contingency for repairs. |
| Custom Glass & Templating | Frameless panels often require post-tiling templates and lead time. | Plan schedules around templating; confirm hardware early to avoid changes. |
| Access & Waste Removal | Parking restrictions, upper floors, extra labour for carrying, skips. | Clarify site access, parking permits, lift use; include skip and disposal. |
| Late Design Changes | Switching tiles/fixtures or altering layout mid-project. | Lock decisions before ordering; review samples and drawings carefully. |
| Lead Times & Re-visits | Delays waiting for special-order items or remedial visits. | Order early; choose stocked items; maintain a realistic programme. |
Realistic Contingency
As a practical rule, allow a 10–15% contingency for unknowns on a typical bathroom renovation. In older properties or where layouts change significantly, consider the upper end of that range.
Budgeting Framework You Can Use
- Core build (prep, plumbing, electrics, waterproofing, tiling): the foundation of quality and longevity.
- Fixtures & finishes: sanitaryware, brassware, shower screens, vanity, mirrors, lighting.
- Access & logistics: skips, parking, protection, cleaning.
- Contingency: set aside from day one and don’t touch it unless needed.
How Bespoke Bathrooms Minimises Surprises
- In-house team only: No subcontracting. One standard, one schedule, one accountable team.
- Detailed survey: We measure, check services, ventilation and levels before we quote.
- Clear scope & fixed pricing: Transparent specification so you know exactly what’s included.
- Quality first: Proper tanking, correct falls to waste, and meticulous prep to avoid failures.
Timeline Tips
- Decide early: Finalise tiles, brassware, vanity and lighting before works start.
- Expect a short gap for glass: Frameless panels are templated post-tiling; allow lead time.
- Plan for downtime: If it’s your only bathroom, discuss temporary solutions before the start date.
Service Areas
We primarily serve homeowners in:
- Dublin
- Kildare
- Wicklow
- Meath (larger projects)
Want a renovation without the shocks? Book a consultation with our in-house team and get a clear, itemised proposal for your space and goals.
FAQs
What’s a sensible contingency for a bathroom renovation?
We recommend allowing 10–15% for unknowns. Older homes or major layout changes may require the higher end.
How do I avoid cost overruns?
Lock your design and product choices early, use an in-house team, include proper waterproofing, and build in a realistic schedule.
Do you provide fixed-price quotes?
Yes — our quotes are based on a detailed survey and a clear specification. If we uncover unforeseen issues at strip-out, we’ll discuss options before proceeding.
Can you work around limited access or parking?
Absolutely. We plan logistics in advance, including waste removal, protection, and any necessary permits.