If you’re thinking about upgrading your bathroom, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most popular home renovations in Canada. But here’s a stat that may surprise you—over 60% of homeowners underestimate the time and cost of bathroom renovations. That can lead to budget overruns, delays, or half-finished projects that linger for months.
Right off the bat, one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is whether to take the DIY bathroom renovation route or bring in a pro. While doing it yourself may seem like a great way to save money, it’s not always the right choice. There’s a lot more at stake than you might think—code compliance, safety, and even resale value.
At renoWOW!, we’ve worked with countless Toronto homeowners who started with good intentions but ran into trouble once the real work began. As a trusted bathroom renovation contractor in Toronto, we’re here to help you weigh your options so you can make the best decision for your home, your timeline, and your peace of mind.
Can You Really DIY a Bathroom?
Let’s be honest—there are definitely parts of a bathroom remodel you can take on yourself. Painting the walls, replacing a faucet, swapping out cabinet hardware, or even updating a vanity are all manageable for most homeowners. These are low-risk tasks that don’t require permits or specialized skills.
But when you move beyond surface-level updates, things get more complicated. Plumbing, tiling, waterproofing, and electrical work all have steep learning curves and serious consequences if done incorrectly. Even installing a toilet improperly can lead to leaks that cause long-term damage.
Yes, going DIY might save money at first. But we’ve seen many homeowners spend more fixing mistakes than they would have spent hiring a professional from the start. We’ve had clients call us after failed DIY attempts resulted in water damage, poor tile installation, or plumbing that didn’t pass inspection. In those cases, the cost of renovating a bathroom nearly doubled.
If you are considering going the DIY route, it’s important to understand your limitations and consider both the financial and emotional cost of trial and error. It’s also helpful to read our 10 Tips for a Successful Main Bathroom Renovation to avoid common pitfalls.
When Hiring a Pro Makes More Sense
There are times when bringing in a licensed contractor is simply the smartest move. For example, if your renovation involves moving plumbing, electrical rewiring, structural changes, or detailed tiling, hiring a licensed bathroom renovation expert isn’t just a good idea—it’s a must.
Here’s why hiring a pro makes a difference:
- Your renovation will meet Ontario Building Code standards
- You will avoid delays or fines from missed bathroom permit requirements in Ontario
- Professionals carry insurance and offer warranties
- You’ll reduce the risk of costly mistakes
Then there’s the timeline. A DIY bathroom renovation can take anywhere from four to six weeks, depending on your schedule. Compare that to a professional team like renoWOW!, who can often complete the same project in just one to two weeks.
Our process is clear, streamlined, and stress-free. We handle everything from design to permits to final walkthroughs—so you don’t have to worry about what happens if something goes wrong. With renoWOW!, you’re backed by a trusted team with years of experience in professional bathroom remodel projects across Toronto.
The Hybrid Model: Best of Both Worlds
Want to get hands-on with your bathroom renovation but also want peace of mind for the complex stuff? A hybrid bathroom renovation might be exactly what you need.
In this model, you take on the parts you’re comfortable with—like demolition, priming, or painting—and we step in for the more technical tasks, such as plumbing, tiling, and fixture installation. It’s a great way to reduce labour costs without compromising quality or compliance.
At renoWOW!, we love collaborating with homeowners who want to be involved. We’ll help you create a timeline that blends both DIY and professional work so everything flows smoothly. You still get the professional finish and durability we’re known for, and you can feel good about contributing to your project.
Cost Breakdown: DIY vs Hiring a Pro
Let’s break down what a bathroom renovation might cost in Toronto.
If you go the DIY route, your material costs might range from $7,000 to $10,000. But that doesn’t include tools, your time, or any corrections that may need to be made if something isn’t installed correctly.
Hiring a contractor like renoWOW! typically means budgeting between $15,000 and $25,000, depending on your scope, finishes, and bathroom size. That price includes everything—design, project management, permits, inspections, and top-tier workmanship.
You can also refer to our detailed breakdown on How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Bathroom in Toronto? to help you plan your budget. And don’t forget to include a 10–20% contingency for unexpected expenses, regardless of which route you take.
Ultimately, fixing DIY errors often costs more than getting the job done right the first time.
Safety, Permits, and Code Compliance
Renovating a bathroom is not just about making things look nice. It’s about doing the work safely and legally.
In Ontario, bathroom renovations that involve plumbing or electrical changes require permits. And in Toronto, inspections are mandatory for many types of renovations. These rules exist for a reason. Improper waterproofing, incorrect wiring, or non-compliant plumbing can create serious hazards—not just for you but for future buyers.
Here are some key bathroom remodel safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always use GFCI outlets in wet areas
- Follow waterproofing best practices for showers and tubs
- Use licensed electricians and plumbers for regulated work
- Avoid removing walls or fixtures without understanding what’s behind them
At renoWOW!, we manage all permits, inspections, and compliance requirements. We protect your investment and your home.
Case Study: Two Bathrooms, Two Approaches
Let’s take a look at two real-world examples.
The DIY Journey
Sarah wanted to update her bathroom on her own. She painted, installed new tiles, and tried her hand at updating the vanity plumbing. At first, it looked great. But within a month, she noticed mould growing around the tub. A small plumbing leak had gone undetected, causing water to seep under the tile. The fix cost her over $6,000 and took weeks to repair.
The renoWOW! Remodel
Now meet Rob. He hired renoWOW! for a full professional bathroom remodel. Our team completed the project in 10 days, including plumbing updates, tilework, and custom lighting. Rob got the look he wanted, stayed within budget, and didn’t have to lift a finger. The final result added value to his home and gave him peace of mind.
Final Decision Framework
Still unsure about which direction to take? Use this quick checklist to guide your decision:
- Skill Level: Do you feel confident tackling plumbing, tiling, or electrical work?
- Tools: Do you have access to the right tools and know how to use them?
- Time: Can you dedicate evenings and weekends for a month or more?
- Budget: Are you prepared for unexpected costs?
- Safety: Do you understand code compliance and permit requirements?
Here’s a comparison chart to help clarify:
| Factor | DIY | Pro | Hybrid |
| Time | 4-6 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
| Cost | Lower upfront | HIgher upfront | Moderate |
| Risk | HIgher | Lower | Medium |
| Quality | Varies | High | High |
| Peace of Mind | Low | High | Medium to High |
And remember, not all contractors are created equal. Look for verified reviews, clear contracts, proper licences, and transparent timelines. If you’re looking for the best bathroom renovation contractors in Toronto, renoWOW! has the experience and customer satisfaction to back it up.
Let’s Turn Your Bathroom Vision into Reality
Renovating your bathroom should be exciting, not stressful. Whether you choose a DIY approach, hire a contractor, or go hybrid, the key is knowing your limits and working with the right partner when it matters most.
If you’re ready to explore your options or have questions about what approach is best for you, contact renoWOW! today for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the process and bring your bathroom vision to life—on time, on budget, and completely stress-free.
FAQs
Do I need a permit for a bathroom renovation in Ontario?
Yes. Permits are often required for plumbing, electrical, or layout changes. A licensed contractor like renoWOW! will handle this for you.
What’s the average cost of a bathroom reno in Toronto?
Most projects fall between $15,000 and $25,000, depending on the size and complexity. You can learn more on our page about How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Bathroom in Toronto?
Can I mix DIY and professional work?
Absolutely. A hybrid bathroom renovation lets you manage what you’re comfortable with while leaving the technical work to pros.
What mistakes should I avoid when remodelling a bathroom?
Skipping permits, poor waterproofing, and doing work beyond your skill level are common bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid. Always consult a pro when in doubt.
