Introduction

A small bathroom renovation is one of the most practical and value-boosting home improvement projects for Toronto homeowners. With rising property values and limited space in condos, townhouses, and older homes, understanding the small bathroom renovation construction cost, time, and process in Toronto, Canada is essential before starting.

Toronto’s building codes, permit requirements, labor costs, and material pricing make bathroom renovations different from other cities. This fully SEO-optimized guide explains everything you need to know, including step-by-step renovation processes, realistic timelines, detailed cost tables, charts, internal and external links, and Google-friendly keywords to help this content rank effectively.

What Is a Small Bathroom?

In Toronto homes and condos, a small bathroom usually ranges between 30 to 50 square feet. These bathrooms are commonly found in:

  • Downtown Toronto condos
  • Older semi-detached homes
  • Basement apartments
  • Guest bathrooms
  • Powder rooms

Despite the limited space, a small bathroom renovation requires careful planning due to plumbing layouts, condo regulations, and city permits.

Why Renovate a Small Bathroom in Toronto?

Renovating a small bathroom in Toronto offers both lifestyle and financial benefits:

  • Increases property resale value in a competitive market
  • Improves functionality in compact spaces
  • Enhances energy and water efficiency
  • Fixes aging plumbing in older Toronto homes
  • Meets modern building and safety standards

Real estate experts in Canada estimate that bathroom renovations can recover 65%–85% of their cost at resale.

Small Bathroom Renovation Construction Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Planning, Design & Permits

Proper planning is the most important stage in Toronto bathroom renovations.

Key steps include:

  • Measuring bathroom dimensions
  • Choosing layout (toilet, vanity, shower/tub)
  • Selecting design style (modern, minimal, luxury)
  • Setting renovation budget
  • Checking Toronto building permit requirements

Minor renovations may not require permits, but plumbing or structural changes usually do.

Estimated time: 3–5 days

2. Budget Planning for Toronto Renovations

Toronto renovation costs are higher than the national average due to labor rates and permit fees.

Budget should include:

  • Demolition and disposal
  • Licensed plumbing and electrical work
  • Waterproofing and tiling
  • Fixtures and fittings
  • Labor costs
  • Contingency (10–15%)

3. Demolition and Waste Removal

Old fixtures, tiles, drywall, and cabinets are removed.

Includes:

  • Safe removal of old materials
  • Bin rental and disposal fees
  • Condo-approved working hours

Estimated time: 1–2 days

4. Plumbing and Electrical Work

All work must comply with Ontario Building Code standards.

Plumbing includes:

  • Water supply and drain lines
  • Shower and toilet rough-ins
  • Upgrading old pipes if needed

Electrical includes:

  • GFCI outlets
  • Vanity lighting
  • Exhaust fan installation
  • Heated floor wiring (optional)

Estimated time: 2–4 days

5. Waterproofing (Mandatory in Toronto)

Waterproofing is critical due to strict building standards.

Areas covered:

  • Shower walls
  • Bathroom floor
  • Corners and joints

Estimated time: 1–2 days plus curing time

6. Tiling and Flooring Installation

Tile selection affects both cost and durability.

Popular choices in Toronto:

  • Porcelain tiles
  • Ceramic tiles
  • Anti-slip floor tiles

Estimated time: 3–5 days

7. Fixture and Vanity Installation

Once tiles are set, fixtures are installed.

Includes:

  • Toilet installation
  • Vanity and sink
  • Shower or bathtub
  • Faucets and accessories

Estimated time: 2–3 days

8. Final Finishing & Inspection

The renovation concludes with final checks.

Includes:

  • Silicone sealing
  • Painting touch-ups
  • Plumbing and electrical testing
  • City or condo inspection (if required)

Estimated time: 1–2 days

Small Bathroom Renovation Timeframe Chart (Toronto)

Renovation StageEstimated Time
Planning & Design3–5 days
Demolition1–2 days
Plumbing & Electrical2–4 days
Waterproofing1–2 days
Tiling & Flooring3–5 days
Fixture Installation2–3 days
Finishing & Inspection1–2 days
Total Time14–22 days

Small Bathroom Renovation Construction Cost in Toronto

The small bathroom renovation construction cost in Toronto, Canada depends on materials, labor, permits, and design complexity.

Average Cost Breakdown (Toronto)

ItemBasicMid-RangeLuxury
Design & Permits$500$1,000$2,000
Demolition & Disposal$800$1,200$1,800
Plumbing$2,000$3,500$5,500
Electrical$1,200$2,000$3,000
Waterproofing$1,000$1,800$2,800
Tiles & Flooring$2,000$3,500$6,000
Fixtures & Vanities$2,500$4,500$8,000
Labor$3,000$5,000$8,000
Total Cost$13,000$22,500$37,000+

Factors Affecting Bathroom Renovation Cost in Toronto

  • Condo vs house renovation rules
  • Permit and inspection fees
  • Labor rates for licensed trades
  • Material selection (local vs imported)
  • Structural or plumbing changes
  • Accessibility upgrades

Cost-Saving Tips for Toronto Homeowners

  • Keep existing plumbing layout
  • Choose mid-range fixtures
  • Renovate during off-peak seasons
  • Bundle plumbing and electrical work
  • Work with experienced Toronto contractors

Best Materials for Small Bathrooms in Toronto

Flooring

  • Porcelain tiles (durable for cold climates)
  • Heated floor systems

Walls

  • Large-format tiles
  • Moisture-resistant drywall

Fixtures

  • WaterSense-certified toilets
  • Compact floating vanities
  • LED lighting

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Hiring unlicensed contractors
  • Skipping permits
  • Poor ventilation
  • Underestimating costs
  • Choosing slippery flooring

Internal Linking Suggestions

  • www.kbhs.ca
  • www.kshps.ca
  • www.linnetplumbing.ca

External Authority Links

  • City of Toronto Building Permits and Inspections
  • Ontario Building Code guidelines
  • Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) renovation resources