Bathroom Renovation Checklist
A simple, practical checklist to help Cairns homeowners plan their bathroom renovation, compare quotes and avoid common mistakes.
Bathroom renovation Cairns checklist by email
Enter your details and we'll send you a printable PDF version of this checklist, plus a reminder of what to ask every contractor.
Your renovation checklist
Work through these items before you sign a contract. They will help you stay on budget, choose the right contractor and make sure nothing is missed.
- 1 Define your budget and include a 10-15% contingency.
- 2 Measure the room and note the location of existing plumbing.
- 3 Decide if you will keep the layout or move fixtures.
- 4 Choose a style and shortlist tile, vanity and tapware options.
- 5 Check that the contractor holds a current QBCC licence.
- 6 Confirm the quote includes waterproofing, tiling and final certification.
- 7 Ask for a written Domestic Building Contract for work over $3,300.
- 8 Confirm QBCC Home Warranty Insurance is included if applicable.
- 9 Plan alternative bathing facilities while work is underway.
- 10 Protect adjacent flooring and furniture before demolition starts.
- 11 Verify exhaust fan size and ducting for Cairns humidity.
- 12 Choose mould-resistant grout, paint and silicone.
- 13 Ask how rubbish removal and site cleanup is handled.
- 14 Schedule a pre-handover inspection and note any defects.
- 15 Keep all warranties, receipts and QBCC documentation in one place.
Method
Use this bathroom renovation Cairns checklist before you request quotes so you can compare scope, waterproofing details and QBCC paperwork on a like-for-like basis.
Why this checklist matters
Bathroom renovations involve multiple trades, regulatory requirements and waterproofing details that are easy to overlook. In Queensland, any residential building work over $3,300 must be carried out by a QBCC-licensed contractor and covered by a written Domestic Building Contract. The checklist helps you verify these details before committing.