How much does a bathroom renovation cost in the GTA? Price ranges, risks, and what to watch for.
- Reno Rabbit Inc
- Aug 31
- 5 min read
Short answer: Bathroom renovation costs in the GTA vary a lot from a basic cosmetic refresh to a full gut + waterproofing + plumbing re-route. In Toronto/GTA, typical projects usually sit between $8,000 and $70,000 depending on scope and materials. A properly executed full gut renovation using licensed trades and premium waterproofing often starts to make realistic sense at or above the mid-$20,000s. Be skeptical if you’re quoted less than $25,000 for a full gut renovation without a site visit. In most cases that price means shortcuts, lower-quality materials, or unlicensed trades.
Typical bathroom cost ranges (Toronto / GTA)
Cosmetic refresh (paint, new fixtures, shallow updates): roughly $8k–$15k depending on size and finishes.
Mid-range renovation (new shower/tub, tile, fixtures, ventilation, some plumbing): roughly $15k–$30k.
Full gut + re-configure (move plumbing, new wiring, full waterproofing, custom millwork, premium tile/stone): $25k–$70k+ the sky is the limit depending on finishes and scope. Local sources show the full range and big variance.
Why the large range? Size, plumbing relocation, structural work, electrical and ventilation upgrades, tile & stone choices, custom vanities, and whether you do a full waterproofing system or a “cosmetic” tile job all change the price dramatically.
Why you should be cautious about very low estimates (< $25,000 for a gut reno)
If a contractor in the GTA quotes significantly less than $25k for a full gut and new bathroom without ever visiting the space, consider these likely explanations (and risks):
They’re skipping licensed trades (plumbing, electrical, etc) and/or using “Jack of all trades”. That increases the risk of mistakes and liability. Ontario regulations require certidied professionals for trades such as plumbing.
They’re using cheaper materials with weak warranties or no serviceability (so fixtures become “throwaway” items).
They may be minimizing waterproofing and subfloor preparation, which lowers upfront cost but increases the chance of leaks and expensive repairs later. Quality waterproofing and uncoupling membranes add cost now but reduce failure risk dramatically.
In short: what looks cheap upfront can cost you time, stress, and more money later.
Waterproofing: what we do (and why it matters)
Water damage is one of the most common and expensive renovation failures. A single leak can ruin floors, walls and the ceiling below, and the damage spreads quickly in Canadian wood-framed homes. That’s why our standard approach includes:
Schluter® systems (KERDI for waterproofing, DITRA as an uncoupling / waterproofing underlayment, and KERDI-BAND to seal edges). These systems are designed to reduce points of failure and extend tile life. Schluter offers product and system warranties when their systems are used according to instructions. Proper installation is required for warranty eligibility.
Waterproof outside the wet area (we don’t only waterproof the inside of the shower; we use under-tile membranes and perimeter seals to reduce leak points). Ditra also functions as an uncoupling membrane, which reduces tile cracking and increases long-term durability.
Real world: we’ve been called to fix second-floor leaks where water migrated down through walls and ruined ceiling, cabinetry, hardwood floors and more on lower levels. These are expensive fixes that could have been avoided with a more robust waterproofing approach.
Fixtures, mixing valves, and serviceability
Buy quality fixtures: Premium manufacturers (Moen, Riobel, Rohl and similar brands) provide stronger warranty coverage and replacement parts. Also, many design their valve systems for serviceability (cartridges/trim replacement). They also tend to require certified installation to keep warranties valid. That’s why we favour reputable brands and certified installers.
Mixing valves: some modern valves allow cartridge or trim replacement without major demolition, but other installations are more invasive. Where possible we select rough-ins and fixtures that are serviceable; where they aren’t, a valve failure could mean removing tile/waterproofing to get to the rough-in and that’s expensive. (This is one more reason not to chase the cheapest fixtures.)
Trades, permits and safety: what you need to know (GTA / Ontario)
Permits matter and rules vary. Under the Ontario Building Code and municipal rules, a building permit is required for material alterations to a building or structure. Interior alterations that affect plumbing, fire separations, sprinklers, or structural elements commonly require permits. Requirements vary by municipality; City of Toronto and other municipalities have clear permit guides for interior alterations. Always check with the local building department and your landlord before renovating your bathroom.
Use licensed trades. Plumbing, gas, and certain other trades are regulated in Ontario; using certified tradespeople reduces risk and often is a condition of manufacturer warranties.
Material choices for bathrooms that save headaches (and why)
Waterproofing membranes (DITRA / KERDI): protect tile & substrate, reduce cracking, and limit leak points.
Sealed or pre-sealed stone: reduces maintenance and staining; if a slab isn’t pre-sealed we professionally seal it before handover.
Seal your tile and grout: Sealing protects grout and porous tiles from dirt and stains, making surfaces easier to wipe clean and keeping them looking fresh longer. Be sure to apply correctly and reapply as needed to maintain the effect.
Quality paints for bathrooms: use paints rated for high humidity (bath & spa formulations) to avoid peeling or mould growth. (We prefer high-performance bathroom paints from Benjamin Moore / Sherwin-Williams.)
Vanities and cabinetry: avoid melamine or low-grade materials prone to swelling in damp environments; choose moisture-resistant materials or a custom vanity built for the space.
How we price bathrooms in GTA & what to expect from Reno Rabbit
On-site consultation: 30–45 min in-person consultation in the GTA to understand your vision, see plumbing access, ventilation so we can price accurately. Following an on-site consultation Reno Rabbit will provide a written estimate.
Professional estimates that outline the scope of work (waterproofing, tile, fixtures, finishes, etc).
We involve licensed trades for plumbing, electrical and gas work (when applicable) and coordinate inspections / permits if required.
Quick checklist for homeowners (before you sign anything)
Ask for a site visit and a written estimate.
Confirm which brands and waterproofing systems will be used.
Ask if licensed trades will be used for plumbing/electrical (and request licences where appropriate).
Request proof of liability insurance and WSIB coverage to ensure the company is properly insured and you’re protected.
Check whether permits are required for your scope of work and clarify who will be responsible for obtaining them and coordinating inspections.
If the price seems much lower than the typical market rate, ask where the savings are coming from. Whether it’s materials, labor, or other factors and request references and recent photos to ensure quality work.
Final thought on bathroom renovation costs in the GTA (our direct advice)
A bathroom renovation in the GTA can range from a simple refresh to a complete remodel, and the cost of mistakes can be high if the work isn’t done properly. Prioritize licensed trades, proper waterproofing, quality fixtures and finishes to ensure lasting results. If you’d like to discuss your bathroom renovation, you can schedule an on-site consultation with one of Reno Rabbit’s representatives and receive a written estimate for your project.
Ready to get an estimate?
Book a no obligation in-person consultation and we’ll give you a written estimate for your scope of work. Call +1 (289) 489-0946 , use the contact form on www.renorabbit.ca or book by clicking "Book Now" below.
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