Planning a bathroom renovation: agree the scope before buying fittings

Write down what stays, what goes and why

Make a short list of the existing bathroom's parts: shower, bath, basin, toilet, storage, lighting, ventilation and finishes. Beside each, write keep, replace or investigate. Then explain the reason. A basin that looks dated is a different problem from one that is awkward to use.

For a hypothetical couple, the main frustration might be having nowhere to put toiletries without covering the basin. A larger vanity may help, but so might better-positioned storage. I would want the brief to say what needs improving before it names the product.

• Which items still work well?
• What makes cleaning or using the room difficult?
• Are you changing the appearance, the function, or both?

Describe the shower as construction, not just a finish

If you want a different shower, ask the team to explain what will be removed and what will replace it. I would want the proposed base, wall lining, waterproofing approach and connections shown together, rather than a note that simply says 'new shower'.

A flush entrance, recessed shelf or different screen is worth discussing before ordering. Ask how each choice affects the construction and the surrounding room. You do not need to design the details yourself, but you should understand what the proposal includes.

MBIE's guidance on Building Code clause E3 covers internal moisture, including wet-area surfaces that resist water penetration and can be cleaned. Choosing the visible finish is only part of resolving that work.

• Who is documenting the complete shower arrangement?
• What existing material is being retained?
• What checks and installation records will be provided?

Include air and everyday upkeep

I would put ventilation on the scope list beside the shower, not leave it as something to sort out later. MBIE recommends considering ventilation early in a renovation and extracting moist bathroom air to the outside. Ask the team to confirm the duct route, controls and how the system will be maintained.

Think about the room after use as well. Where will wet towels hang? Can you reach the areas you need to clean? Where will spare toilet rolls and cleaning supplies live? These are useful design decisions even in a small refresh.

Get the whole scope checked

Do not decide the consent position from the phrase 'bathroom renovation'. MBIE explains that some building work is exempt in defined circumstances, but Building Code obligations still apply. Ask your designer and relevant trades to assess the actual proposal, with council advice where needed.

I would ask for the basis of any exemption to be recorded against the work it covers. A conclusion about plumbing alone does not settle every other part of the renovation. Confirm the required approvals before work starts.

Plan the period without a bathroom

Before agreeing a start date, ask when the toilet, basin and shower will each be unavailable. If this is your only bathroom, decide what the household will use instead. Ask the builder which inspections, installation stages and product curing requirements affect when the room can return to use.

Bring your keep, replace and investigate list, a few photographs and any existing plans to an initial conversation. We can help turn the wish list into a scope that is ready for the next design and pricing decisions.

• Confirm who coordinates the trades and checks.
• Agree who tells you when the room is ready to use.
• Ask what could change the planned sequence.