Bathroom Refurbishment GuideHampshire & Wiltshire
Complete guide to bathroom refurbishment covering full vs partial renovations, planning processes, design considerations, costs, and professional project management for Hampshire and Wiltshire properties.
From simple bathroom refreshes to complete luxury renovations, this guide helps you plan, budget, and execute your perfect bathroom transformation with professional project management.

Types of Bathroom Refurbishment
Choose the right level of refurbishment for your needs, budget, and timeline. Each approach delivers different benefits and value.
Basic Refresh
Low ComplexityIncludes:
- New suite installation
- Basic tiling refresh
- Updated lighting
- Painting and decoration
Best For: Recently renovated bathrooms needing updates or rental properties
Partial Refurbishment
Moderate ComplexityIncludes:
- New bathroom suite
- Full retiling
- Updated plumbing
- Electrical improvements
- New flooring
Best For: Bathrooms with good structure but outdated fixtures and finishes
Complete Renovation
High ComplexityIncludes:
- Full strip-out
- Structural alterations
- New plumbing and electrical
- Premium fixtures
- Bespoke design
Best For: Total transformation or properties requiring layout changes and accessibility improvements
Luxury Refurbishment
Premium ComplexityIncludes:
- Designer fixtures
- Premium materials
- Underfloor heating
- Smart technology
- Bespoke storage
Best For: High-end properties wanting premium finishes and latest technology integration
Professional Planning Process
Successful bathroom refurbishment requires careful planning and systematic execution. Our proven process ensures quality results on time and budget.
Initial Consultation & Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of existing bathroom, discussing requirements, preferences, and budget considerations.
Key Activities:
- Space measurement
- Plumbing assessment
- Electrical evaluation
- Structural inspection
- Needs analysis
Stage Outcome:
Clear understanding of project scope and feasibility
Design & Planning Phase
Create detailed design proposals with 3D visualizations, material selections, and technical specifications.
Key Activities:
- Layout optimization
- Fixture selection
- Material choices
- Color coordination
- Technical drawings
Stage Outcome:
Approved design with detailed specifications and costings
Permits & Preparation
Obtain necessary approvals, order materials, and schedule tradespeople for seamless project execution.
Key Activities:
- Building regulations
- Material ordering
- Trade coordination
- Access preparation
- Protection setup
Stage Outcome:
All permits secured, materials available, team ready to start
Strip-out & Preparation
Careful removal of existing fixtures and finishes, preparing space for new installation work.
Key Activities:
- Fixture removal
- Wall stripping
- Floor preparation
- Waste disposal
- Surface preparation
Stage Outcome:
Clean, prepared space ready for new installations
First Fix - Infrastructure
Install all hidden infrastructure including plumbing, electrical, and structural modifications.
Key Activities:
- Plumbing installation
- Electrical first fix
- Structural work
- Waterproofing
- Insulation
Stage Outcome:
All infrastructure in place and tested before covering
Finishing & Second Fix
Complete all visible elements including tiling, decorating, and fixture installation.
Key Activities:
- Tiling and waterproofing
- Painting and decorating
- Fixture installation
- Final electrical connections
- Finishing touches
Stage Outcome:
Completed bathroom ready for final inspection and handover
Key Design Considerations
Smart design choices maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term value of your bathroom investment.
Space Optimization
Functionality- Maximize small bathroom layouts with wall-hung fixtures
- Corner installations for tight spaces
- Sliding doors instead of hinged for space saving
- Built-in storage solutions to reduce clutter
Accessibility & Safety
Future-proofing- Level-access showers for mobility requirements
- Grab rails and safety features
- Non-slip flooring materials
- Accessible storage heights
Lighting & Ventilation
Comfort & Health- Layered lighting with task and ambient options
- Natural light optimization with privacy
- Adequate ventilation to prevent condensation
- Energy-efficient LED lighting throughout
Water Efficiency
Running Costs- Low-flow fixtures to reduce water consumption
- Thermostatic controls for temperature consistency
- Efficient toilet cisterns with dual flush
- Water recycling systems where appropriate
Professional Refurbishment Benefits
Professional project management ensures quality results, regulatory compliance, and stress-free experience.
Complete Project Management
Single point of contact managing all trades, timelines, and quality standards from start to finish.
Quality Guarantee
10-year warranty on all installation work with insurance backing and ongoing support.
Professional Standards
All work complies with building regulations, British standards, and manufacturer requirements.
Professional Bathroom Refurbishment Hampshire
Complete project management from design to completion. All work guaranteed with comprehensive warranty coverage and building regulations compliance.
Refurbishment Cost Breakdown
Understanding cost components helps you budget effectively and make informed decisions about your bathroom investment.
Labour & Project Management
Professional installation, coordination, and project management ensuring quality delivery on time.
Bathroom Suite & Fixtures
Bath, shower, toilet, basin, taps, and accessories. Quality ranges from standard to premium designer pieces.
Tiles & Flooring
Wall and floor tiles, adhesives, grouts, and underfloor heating systems where specified.
Plumbing & Electrical
New pipework, electrical circuits, ventilation systems, and all necessary building regulations compliance.
Structural & Preparation
Wall preparation, waterproofing, structural modifications, and disposal of old materials.
Decoration & Finishing
Painting, sealing, final adjustments, and professional cleaning before handover.
Budget Planning Tips
Always include a 10-15% contingency for unexpected issues. Costs can vary significantly based on material choices, structural requirements, and accessibility needs. Professional surveys identify potential additional costs before starting work.
Typical Project Timeline
Understanding the project timeline helps you plan around the refurbishment and set realistic expectations.
Week 1
Activities:
- Project mobilization
- Strip-out and disposal
- First fix plumbing
- Electrical first fix
Milestones:
- Space cleared and prepared
- Infrastructure 50% complete
Week 2
Activities:
- Complete first fix work
- Waterproofing installation
- Begin tiling work
- Structural completion
Milestones:
- All infrastructure complete
- Waterproofing certified
- Tiling 60% complete
Week 3
Activities:
- Complete tiling
- Second fix electrical
- Fixture installation
- Decoration and finishing
Milestones:
- All fixtures installed
- Electrical certification
- Project 90% complete
Hampshire & Wiltshire Property Considerations
Different areas present unique challenges requiring specialized knowledge and experience.
Winchester & Historic Areas
Challenges:
Listed buildings and conservation areas require special planning permissions
Solutions:
Work with conservation officers, use appropriate materials, maintain character features
Key Considerations:
Longer planning periods, restricted material choices, heritage compliance
Basingstoke New Developments
Challenges:
Modern builds with specific building standards and warranty requirements
Solutions:
Comply with NHBC standards, work within developer warranties, coordinate with management companies
Key Considerations:
Warranty implications, building standard compliance, community regulations
Rural Hampshire Properties
Challenges:
Limited access, septic systems, well water supplies, planning restrictions
Solutions:
Specialized rural experience, septic-safe products, water treatment solutions, mobile facilities
Key Considerations:
Access logistics, environmental considerations, utility limitations
Wiltshire Market Towns
Challenges:
Period properties with unique structural considerations and local planning requirements
Solutions:
Period property expertise, local authority liaison, appropriate renovation techniques
Key Considerations:
Character preservation, local material sourcing, planning consultation
Quality Standards & Compliance
All refurbishment work meets or exceeds British Standards and Building Regulations requirements.
Waterproofing
BS 8102:2009Full wet room waterproofing to all shower areas with certified membrane systems
Flood test before tiling, photographic evidence of installation
Electrical Safety
BS 7671:2018All electrical work certified with Part P compliance and RCD protection
Full electrical testing certificate provided on completion
Plumbing Standards
BS 6700:2006All pipework pressure tested, proper insulation, and isolation valves fitted
24-hour pressure test, flow rate testing, temperature verification
Ventilation
Building Regulations Part FAdequate mechanical ventilation with appropriate extraction rates
Air flow measurement, humidity control verification
Accessibility Features
Future-proof your bathroom with accessibility features for aging in place and universal design.
Walk-in Shower
£500-1,200 additionalLevel access without step barriers
Grab Rails & Support
£150-400 additionalSafety and stability for all users
Raised Toilet
£200-500 additionalEasier sitting and standing
Accessible Storage
£300-800 additionalReachable storage at appropriate heights
Related Bathroom Guides
Explore more helpful guides for your Hampshire bathroom needs
Complete Bathroom Services Guide
Comprehensive overview of all bathroom services from repairs and maintenance to complete installations.
Professional Shower Installation Guide
Expert guide to shower installation covering types, processes, safety, and professional fitting services.
Bathroom Renovation Guide Hampshire
Detailed guide to bathroom renovations including costs, timeline, design tips, and project management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bathroom refurbishment projects
How long does a complete bathroom refurbishment take?
A typical complete refurbishment takes 2-3 weeks depending on complexity. This includes 1-2 days for strip-out, 3-5 days for first fix work (plumbing and electrical), and 8-12 days for tiling, fitting, and finishing. I provide detailed schedules during planning to help you prepare.
Do I need planning permission for bathroom refurbishment?
Most bathroom refurbishments don't require planning permission, but Building Regulations approval may be needed for electrical work and structural changes. In conservation areas or listed buildings, additional permissions may be required. I handle all necessary applications and compliance.
Can you work around my daily routine?
Yes, I plan projects to minimize disruption and can often maintain one functioning toilet during work. We discuss your specific needs during planning and can adjust schedules for families with children, shift workers, or other special circumstances.
What warranty do you provide on bathroom refurbishment?
I provide a comprehensive 10-year warranty on all installation work, covering workmanship and any installation-related issues. Manufacturer warranties on fixtures and fittings are additional. This gives you complete confidence in your investment.
How do you handle unexpected problems during refurbishment?
I conduct thorough surveys to identify potential issues before starting, but if unexpected problems arise (like hidden damage), I'll stop work, explain the situation, provide options with costs, and only proceed with your approval. Transparent communication is key to successful projects.
Transform Your Bathroom with Professional Refurbishment
Complete project management from design to completion. Building regulations compliance, comprehensive warranty, and quality craftsmanship throughout Hampshire and Wiltshire.
Important Booking Information
Our professional booking system ensures seamless service delivery from first contact to job completion
Professional Call Center
We use a dedicated call center to ensure your calls are always answered promptly and your details are passed directly to our plumber.
Arrival Windows
We provide time windows rather than exact times to ensure quality work on each job. We'll keep you updated with a more precise ETA.
ServiceM8 System
Our professional job management system provides SMS updates, online booking, and digital job records for a seamless experience.
Our Bathroom Refurbishment Expertise
Discover how our systematic approach to bathroom refurbishment ensures quality results, on-time completion, and complete customer satisfaction across Hampshire and Wiltshire.
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