When you start thinking about a full bathroom refit, the first thing that usually hits you is not the sound of hammers or the smell of fresh grout—it’s the cost.
And let’s be honest, bathrooms aren’t just rooms; they’re sanctuaries where we start and end our day.
But how much does it really cost to rip everything out and start fresh? Let’s break it down like a friend walking you through their own renovation story—because I’ve been there, and trust me, there are some things you’ll want to know before you dive in.
1. What Does a Full Bathroom Refit Actually Mean?
Before we talk numbers, let’s get clear on what a bathroom refit involves. A refit isn’t just swapping out a tired shower curtain for a sleek glass screen. It means:
- Stripping out everything—tiles, toilet, sink, shower/bath, flooring, lighting, sometimes even walls or plumbing.
- Installing brand new fixtures—toilet, sink, bath/shower, cabinets, mirrors, lighting, ventilation.
- Re-tiling and flooring—fresh tiles, waterproofing, and proper sealants.
- Plumbing and electrical upgrades—this is where hidden costs like moving pipes or rewiring sneak in.
Think of it as gutting the space down to its bones and rebuilding it like a mini luxury spa.
When I did mine, I thought I was just “getting a new bathroom.” By the time the plumber explained I needed to move a waste pipe, my budget looked more like a leaking tap. Lesson learned: a refit is more than cosmetic—it’s structural and functional.
2. The Average Cost of a Full Bathroom Refit
Here’s where the numbers get real. In the UK, as of 2025, the average cost of a full bathroom refit ranges between:
- Basic refit: £4,500 – £7,000
- Mid-range refit: £7,000 – £12,000
- Luxury refit: £12,000 – £20,000+
In the US, homeowners typically spend between $10,000 – $25,000 for a full bathroom remodel, with high-end projects reaching $50,000 or more depending on finishes.
According to HomeAdvisor, the national average bathroom remodel cost is $11,365, but upscale projects easily triple that.
So, where you land on the scale depends on choices—like whether you’re happy with a solid ceramic sink or if you’ve fallen in love with that Italian marble vanity (spoiler: it’s gorgeous but costly).
3. Factors That Influence the Price
Bathroom refits are like airline tickets—two people on the same flight might pay wildly different prices. Here’s why:
- Size of the bathroom: A small ensuite will cost less than a sprawling family bathroom.
- Materials and finishes: Vinyl flooring vs. marble tiles. Huge difference.
- Fixtures quality: Basic £100 toilet vs. a £1,200 wall-mounted smart toilet.
- Plumbing complexity: Moving pipes costs hundreds (sometimes thousands).
- Electrical upgrades: Adding underfloor heating, heated mirrors, or LED lighting boosts costs.
- Labour rates: In London or New York, expect higher hourly rates than rural areas.
When I redid my bathroom, I splurged on a rainfall shower. It was worth every penny, but I had to cut back on fancy wall tiles to balance things out. That’s the dance—you pick your “must-haves” and compromise on the rest.
4. Hidden Costs Nobody Tells You About
Here’s the stuff that catches people off guard (me included):
- Waste disposal: Skip hire or rubbish removal adds up.
- Unexpected plumbing issues: Old pipes can fail once disturbed.
- Structural repairs: Water damage behind old tiles can turn into a mini horror story.
- Permits or inspections: In some places, certain works need approval.
- Temporary living adjustments: If it’s your only bathroom, hotel stays or neighbourly favors might sneak into the budget.
One friend of mine discovered their floorboards were rotting under the bath. The refit went from £8,000 to £12,000. Painful—but necessary.
5. Cost Breakdown of a Bathroom Refit
Here’s how a typical refit bill might look:
- Labour (40-60%) – £2,000 – £6,000 / $5,000 – $15,000
- Fixtures – £1,500 – £4,000 / $3,000 – $10,000
- Tiling & flooring – £1,000 – £3,500 / $2,500 – $8,000
- Plumbing & electrical – £800 – £3,000 / $1,500 – $7,000
- Extras (mirrors, storage, lighting) – £500 – £2,000 / $1,000 – $5,000
It’s like ordering pizza—you start with the base price, then toppings (extras) take it higher. And just like pizza, once you see the menu of options, it’s hard not to add everything.
6. Ways to Save Money on a Bathroom Refit
Here’s where we get clever. You don’t have to splash cash like you’re filming an episode of Grand Designs.
- Keep the layout the same: Moving plumbing = expensive.
- Mix and match finishes: Splurge on a statement vanity, save with budget tiles.
- Shop smart: Clearance sales and outlet stores have hidden gems.
- DIY what you can: Painting, demo work, or even tiling if you’re confident.
- Get multiple quotes: Always compare at least three contractors.
I once saved £700 by buying an ex-display sink and vanity unit. A tiny chip on the back (which you can’t even see) made it “discounted.” To me, that’s just smart shopping.
7. When a Full Refit is Worth It
Sometimes, a fresh coat of paint or a new mirror just won’t cut it. A full refit is worth considering when:
- Your bathroom has serious water damage or mold.
- The layout is impractical (tiny sink, awkward toilet placement).
- Fixtures are so old they’re costing you in repairs.
- You want to increase home value before selling.
Did you know that a bathroom remodel has one of the highest ROI (return on investment) in home improvements? On average, homeowners recover 60-70% of the cost when they sell. So, while it stings upfront, it can pay back later.
8. Luxury Additions That Push Costs Up
If your budget is more “champagne and caviar,” you might consider:
- Freestanding tubs – £2,000+
- Underfloor heating – £800 – £2,500
- Smart toilets – £1,000 – £4,000
- Walk-in wet rooms – £8,000 – £15,000
- Designer tiles – £100+ per square metre
These upgrades make your bathroom feel like a spa retreat, but they’ll push your total refit into five-star hotel territory.
9. Personal Story: My Bathroom Refit Journey
When I did my own refit, I started with a modest £6,000 budget. Within weeks, I was already at £8,500. Why? Because once you see those glossy showrooms, it’s easy to get carried away. I ended up with:
- A rainfall shower I still adore.
- A vanity unit that cost more than my sofa.
- A slightly lighter wallet, but a bathroom I look forward to using every morning.
The truth? It was stressful, messy, and more expensive than planned—but I’d do it again. Because every time I walk in there, it feels like a little slice of hotel luxury in my own home.
Conclusion
So, how much is a full bathroom refit? The honest answer is: anywhere from £4,500 to £20,000+ in the UK and $10,000 to $50,000 in the US, depending on size, style, and ambition.
Here’s my advice:
- Be clear on your budget before you start.
- Expect hidden costs (add at least 10–15% extra).
- Choose wisely where to splurge and where to save.
A full refit is an investment—not just in your home’s value, but in your daily comfort. And trust me, there’s nothing better than stepping into a bathroom that feels like it was designed just for you.
FAQs
1. How much does a small bathroom refit cost?
A small bathroom refit usually costs £4,500 – £7,000 in the UK or $7,000 – $12,000 in the US, depending on finishes and layout changes.
2. How long does a full bathroom refit take?
Most take 2–4 weeks, depending on complexity, availability of materials, and any unexpected issues like plumbing or structural repairs.
3. Does a new bathroom increase home value?
Yes. On average, a bathroom remodel adds 60-70% of its cost back into your home’s value. Buyers love updated bathrooms.
4. What’s the most expensive part of a bathroom refit?
Labour usually takes the biggest chunk (40-60%). After that, tiling and high-end fixtures can really drive up the cost.
5. Is it cheaper to renovate or refit a bathroom?
A renovation (cosmetic updates like paint or new accessories) is cheaper. A full refit costs more but addresses plumbing, layout, and long-term value.