A Step-By-Step Bathroom Renovation Guide and Checklist

Starting a bathroom makeover can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right plan and tools, like this easy-to-follow bathroom remodel checklist, you’ll stay organized, avoid costly mistakes, and bring your dream bathroom to life.

When starting any home remodeling project, especially in one of the smallest rooms of the house, it is best to start with a clear design vision. Thinking about your goals for the project—and what you want to improve, get rid of, or add—can help make the remodeling process more manageable. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious freestanding tub, better storage space, or a fresh color palette, a plan ensures that you'll stay on track and keep the big picture in mind. 

We've put together this step-by-step bathroom renovation checklist to guide you through every phase of your renovation process From initial planning and selecting materials for your bathroom remodel to understanding the bathroom remodel timeline, we’re here to walk you through the key elements of a successful upgrade to help keep you on track. 

How to Plan a Bathroom Remodel

If you’re wondering how to plan a bathroom renovation, you’re not alone—bathroom remodels vary in complexity, from a simple refresh to a complete renovation. No matter how extensive your project is, following this bathroom remodel checklist can help you ensure your project will be a success.  

1. Gather ideas 

The first step is to decide how you want your new space to look when the project is complete. These days, there are many places to look for bathroom design ideas. The internet and social media are full of beautiful photos of fantastic bathroom ideas that you can use to start building a mood board. 

Pinterest makes it easy to collect and categorize your wish list, from window treatments to tile floor patterns. You can browse for bathroom remodels and find hundreds to choose from. Or, if you're looking for a specific feature, like a shower area or new cabinets, you can search and find lots of inspiration. 

Online design sites can help you test out layout changes and see your design ideas come to life in the virtual world. You get to choose different finishes and colors and see how they would look in your space. This is a great way to see a lot of options in a short amount of time. 

For finishes and hardware like faucets and accent lighting, you'll probably want to see them in person and test them out. Visiting local home improvement stores or thrift stores is a great way to spend a Saturday. Many showrooms have sinks and bathtubs set up so you can fully experience how they'll feel in your home. Take photos of any fixtures that catch your eye, so you'll have a record. Gather paint chips and other finish samples while you're there. 

Keep your inspiration photos in a central location on your computer, tablet, or phone. You can even save them to a cloud storage site to access them wherever you are. Keeping your ideas in one place will help you make the final decisions on your design when it comes time. Organize your photos by area of the bathroom, design style, or whatever makes the most sense for you. 

2. Decide what needs to be changed or added

Next, you'll need to decide on the scope of your project. Will you be overhauling the bathroom layout and starting over, or will you just change a few fixtures and add a coat of paint? Understanding your existing layout can help you identify what needs to stay and what you want to change in your new layout.

We often don't realize how many fixtures and accessories there are in a bathroom. Here's a helpful bathroom remodel checklist to help you get started:

• Bathtub/spa 
• Shower 
• Shower door or curtain 
• Soap holder/shelving 
• Cabinets
• Shelves 
• Countertops
• Vanities 
• Lavatory and faucet 
• Grab bars 
• Lighting 
• Medicine cabinet 
• Tub/shower faucet, valve, and drain 
• Mirrors 
• Shower seats 
• Adding walls 
• Soap and lotion dispensers
• Wallcoverings (paint, tile, wallpaper) 
• Flooring 
• Toilet paper and towel holders 
• Ventilation (exhaust fan) 
• Heating and air conditioning 

There's a lot to consider when deciding to make a change. If you’re not sure where to start, think of what you need to make your space functional, especially if you’re working with a smaller powder room where every inch counts.

3. Decide whether to do it yourself or hire a professional

If you or someone you know has carpentry or renovation experience, tackling your bathroom remodel checklist as a DIY project might seem like a great way to save money. While it can help reduce upfront costs, it’s important to weigh the risks. 

Projects involving complex plumbing, building codes, or electrical systems often require specialized expertise, and if something goes wrong, it could lead to unexpected costs or even damage to your home. In many cases, it’s smarter (and safer) to hire experts who can get the job done right the first time.

When it comes to major updates—like installing a new shower or replacing the tub—working with a trusted professional like Bath Fitter can make all the difference. Instead of navigating your bathroom remodel checklist on your own, Bath Fitter offers a streamlined solution that takes the stress out of your remodel.

With over 35 years of experience, Bath Fitter can install a new tub or shower in as little as one day, minimizing unexpected delays and disruptions to your routine. Our factory-trained professionals ensure the work is done safely, efficiently, and up to code—and our work is backed by a lifetime warranty. Ultimately, hiring professionals is a smart, time-saving choice that delivers lasting peace of mind and a beautiful, functional new space you’ll love.

A DIY approach may work for surface-level improvements, like painting and flooring. However, you should be realistic in estimating your bathroom remodel timeline and total budget. Sometimes, it’s easier to hire professionals to help avoid unexpected challenges and costly mistakes.

How to select a professional 

When it comes to navigating your bathroom remodel checklist, choosing the right team can make all the difference—and that’s where Bath Fitter shines. Unlike hiring independent contractors, working with Bath Fitter means partnering with a company that’s built its reputation on trust, quality, and outstanding service.

Most states require contractors to be licensed, which helps ensure that they have the proper insurance and bonds to protect you if something goes wrong during your project. If you find a professional you'd like to use, be sure to check your state's contractor licensing website to make sure the company is registered. 

Other things to look for when selecting a professional include: 

Recommendations, reviews, and customer feedback

Ask your neighbors or friends if they can recommend a contractor. Check review sites and a company's website for additional feedback. One negative review doesn't mean that a contractor isn't good. Several negative reviews may indicate a company you should stay away from. Another good source to check is the Better Business Bureau (BBB). They rate businesses based on the number of complaints and how long they've been in business.

With decades of experience and thousands of successful installations, Bath Fitter is a name homeowners trust. You can explore real testimonials on our website and third-party platforms to see why so many choose Bath Fitter.

Quality of work

Quality can be hard to judge when you cannot see the work in person. Most contractors have photos of their work on their website or social media accounts, so you have an idea of the work they perform. Reading reviews online may give you a better idea of their quality, at least if there were any problems with past jobs. If possible, visit a project that is in progress so you can see what the contractor's work looks like with your own eyes.

Bath Fitter doesn’t just promise high-quality work: we guarantee it. Our products are custom-made in North America and installed by factory-trained experts who ensure everything fits perfectly and meets your expectations. Every installation comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected long-term.

Length of time in business

Companies that have been around for longer and are established in the community are generally more stable than newer companies. This doesn't mean a young company won't do good work, but you have more assurance that the company will be around to address warranty issues if they've been in business for a while.

Bath Fitter has been in business for over 35 years, and that kind of longevity is no accident. It’s a sign of our consistent performance, reliable service, and strong community ties. You won’t have to worry about chasing down someone years later for warranty service because we’ll be here when you need us.

Responsiveness

Once you contact a professional, track how long it takes to get a response. Some experts are prompt with their follow-up, and some are so busy they don't have time to follow-up on new work. You want someone who will be responsive not only before the sale but after as well.

From your first consultation to the final walkthrough, our team is professional and easy to work with. We’re committed to making your experience smooth and stress-free, whether it’s answering questions, helping you visualize your new bathroom, or resolving any concerns after installation.

4. Establish a budget 

Based on the work you've chosen, the types of fixtures and finishes to be installed, and whether you're doing the work yourself or hiring a contractor, you should be able to establish a realistic budget for the project now. 

Make sure to include the following in your budget calculations: 

• Cost of materials and supplies (tools, adhesives, application supplies) 
• Cost of any professionals hired
• Design and permit costs
• Cost of lost income if you must take time off from work
• Inspection costs or fees

When you work with the experts at Bath Fitter, your quote will include both the high-quality materials and professional installation needed to complete your project. What sets Bath Fitter apart is the added confidence that comes with our lifetime warranty on all installations. That kind of peace of mind—knowing your project is in expert hands and backed by the same company that did the work—can make the investment well worth it.

If the initial estimate is higher than expected, don’t worry. Our specialists are trained to help you find solutions that align with your budget. They can offer creative ideas and product options for your current bathroom that deliver great results without compromising on style or quality. You can also explore more affordable lighting fixtures, cabinetry, or finishes to help lower the total cost while still achieving your vision.

5. Order materials 

Once you've selected your materials, established your budget, and decided who will do the work, it’s time to order materials for your bathroom remodel. Some materials and fixtures may have longer lead times, so you'll need to order them weeks or months before you need them, especially if you choose custom design options.  

6. Complete your design and pull permits 

Depending on what type of work you include in your project, you may need to pull building permits before starting the renovation. At Bath Fitter, our professionals can consult with you on what work needs to be permitted and what doesn't. 

Some permits can be purchased over the counter and don't require submitting drawings or plans. However, if your project is complicated and involves adding proper ventilation or removing walls,, you may have to submit plans to your local jurisdiction for review before you can start your project. Plan review times will vary depending on how busy the jurisdiction is. 

Plan for a successful bathroom remodel

Before you begin a large project like a bathroom remodel, having a plan will help you stay organized and on track. There will be fewer surprises, and you'll feel confident that you've got a solid plan to complete the work.  

Use the above bathroom remodel checklist to help you organize your ideas, decide what you want to change or add to your bathroom, decide whether to hire a contractor, establish a budget, and make the final design decisions. With the right plan—and the right partner like Bath Fitter—you’ll be enjoying your beautifully transformed space in no time.

Ready to get started? Book a free consultation and take the first step toward your dream bathroom.

Bathroom Remodel FAQ

Have more questions about how to plan a bathroom remodel? Bath Fitter has answers.

How long does it take to complete a bathroom remodel?

Your bathroom remodel timeline will vary depending on the amount and type of work included in the project. An extensive demolition and renovation project may take months, while changing out bathroom fixtures and adding paint may take only a few days. 

Besides the type of work, the lead time for fixtures and materials determines how long a project will take. If the flooring is a custom-made tile that takes ten weeks to produce, then the schedule must include that time. The work on-site can often be delayed until just before materials are available, meaning that your life won't be interrupted for as long. 

Due to the nature of the room being renovated, hidden damage can be an issue that can also extend a project's schedule. The project schedule should include additional time for unforeseen problems or repairs that may be needed as the work progresses. 

How much does a bathroom remodel add to the value of a house?

According to the National Association of the Home Builders’ 2024 report, 65% of remodelers report bathroom remodels to be the most popular remodeling project.

In addition, Zillow data shows that bathroom renovations bring the biggest returns when boosting your home’s resale value. For minor changes, most homeowners see a $1.71 increase in home value for every $1 spent, with midrange bathroom remodels yielding a 70.1% return on investment on average.. 

How much does a bathroom remodel cost on average? 

According to Angi, the average cost of a bathroom remodel project ranges from $6,639 to $17,621, with a national average of $12,118. You can expect to spend around$6,000 for a standard bathroom remodel or up to $30,000 for a full bathroom renovation.

Factors that may influence the cost of your project include: 

• Bathroom size and number of fixtures
• Quality of materials
• Types of fixtures, appliances, flooring, and counters 
• Regional labor pricing differences
• Unnecessary markups on material and labor
• Changing the floor plan or size of the bathroom

TIP:

Most bathroom projects include markups on material and labor. Working with reputable companies that own their process and guarantee their product, like Bath Fitter, can be advantageous on many levels.