Simple steps Perth homeowners can take to avoid blowouts, delays, and regrets.
Planning a bathroom renovation is exciting — but it can also get overwhelming fast. Between choosing tiles, fixtures, and layouts, the plumbing side of things often gets overlooked. That’s where working with the right plumbing team in Perth makes a huge difference. With the right guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes, speed up your renovation timeline, and ensure everything runs smoothly the first time.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential plumbing tips every Perth homeowner should know before starting a bathroom renovation.
1. Start With a Professional Plumbing Inspection
Before tearing out tiles or ripping up old fixtures, it’s crucial to understand the condition of your existing plumbing. Older homes in areas like Fremantle, Victoria Park, or Mount Hawthorn often hide aging pipes behind walls — and those can cause unexpected issues during renovations.
A pre-reno inspection helps you identify:
- Pipe corrosion
- Low water pressure
- Old or non-compliant fixtures
- Hidden leaks Detection
- Drainage issues
2. Plan Your Layout Before You Buy Fixtures
It’s tempting to purchase your dream bathtub or statement vanity first — but plumbing comes before aesthetics. Moving plumbing lines can be costly, especially if concrete slabs or second-storey floors are involved.
A well-thought-out layout helps you:
- Avoid unnecessary plumbing relocations
- Keep your project within budget
- Improve water flow and fixture performance
Tip: Decide where your toilet, shower, vanity, and bath will go before choosing fittings. This ensures everything aligns with your plumbing infrastructure.
3. Choose Water-Efficient Fixtures
Perth homeowners benefit from selecting fixtures with high WELS ratings. These products use less water, lowering your bills and helping the environment — a win-win.
Look for WELS-rated:
- Showerheads
- Tapware
- Toilets
- Hot water systems
Fact: Switching to a 4-star showerhead can save thousands of litres per year.
4. Upgrade Old Pipes While Walls Are Open
If your home is older than 20–30 years, your bathroom renovation is the perfect opportunity to replace worn-out pipes. Once the walls are open, upgrades are cheaper, faster, and future-proof your bathroom for years.
Upgrading pipes helps prevent:
- Burst pipes
- Water pressure issues
- Rusty or dirty water
- Blocked drains
Think of it as a long-term investment in your home’s value and safety.
5. Waterproofing Is Non-Negotiable
Proper waterproofing protects your bathroom from mould, leaks, and structural damage. Western Australia has strict waterproofing standards — so hiring a licensed professional is essential.
A good local plumber ensures:
- Correct membrane application
- Compliance with WA building codes
- Long-term leak prevention
6. Check Your Drainage Slopes Before Tiling
One of the most common bathroom renovation issues is incorrect drainage. If the slope isn’t right, you’ll end up with pooling water — especially in the shower.
A plumbing professional will make sure:
- Waste pipes have the correct fall
- Water drains efficiently
- You won’t face drainage problems later
This tiny detail makes a huge difference in your bathroom’s performance.
7. Don’t Forget Your Hot Water System
Your beautiful new bathroom will only work as intended if your hot water system can handle it. If you’re adding a larger shower head, bathtub, or multiple bathrooms, you may need an upgrade.
Local Perth plumbers can advise on:
- Gas vs electric systems
- Storage vs instantaneous units
- Optimal size for your home and family
A quick assessment now prevents cold showers later!
Services Typically Needed During a Bathroom Renovation
A qualified Perth plumbing team can offer a complete range of renovation services, including:
- Pipe replacements
- Fixture installations
- Hot water upgrades
- Leak detection
- Drainage and sewer adjustments
- Waterproofing
- Relocating plumbing connections
Planning a reno? Chat with our team at Perth Local Plumbing — we make bathroom renovations smooth, stress-free, and compliant.
FAQs – Plumbing for Bathroom Renovations in Perth
1. Do I need council approval for bathroom plumbing changes?
In many cases, yes — especially if you’re relocating fixtures or altering drainage. A licensed plumber will handle the compliance process for you.
2. How long does bathroom plumbing take during a renovation?
On average, plumbing rough-in and fit-off take 3–7 days, depending on the complexity and size of the bathroom.
3. Can I keep my existing plumbing layout to save money?
Absolutely. Keeping fixtures in the same locations is one of the best ways to reduce plumbing costs.
4. What should I replace during a bathroom renovation?
At minimum, consider updating old pipes, tapware, showerheads, and any non-compliant fixtures.
Final Thoughts
A bathroom renovation is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make to your Perth home — but the plumbing behind the walls is what truly makes it functional. With the right planning and a trusted local plumbing expert, you can avoid costly mistakes, boost your home’s value, and enjoy a bathroom that’s built to last.
For professional, reliable, and friendly plumbing support, contact Perth Local Plumbing. We’re Perth locals — and we’re here to help bring your renovation to life.
