A bathroom renovation is one of the highest-impact home projects: it improves daily comfort, reduces maintenance headaches, and often raises resale value. But how much does a bathroom renovation cost in Edmonton in 2025? This guide gives Edmonton homeowners clear, realistic cost ranges, explains the main cost drivers, covers local permit and code considerations, and shows how working with a trusted contractor like Steadfast Constructions Ltd. makes the whole process safer and more predictable.
Steadfast Constructions is an Edmonton-based design-build contractor that handles bathroom remodels from design and permitting through to final finishes. We’ve used local project experience to compile the numbers and practical tips below so you can plan with confidence.
Quick cost snapshot: What to expect in 2025
Bathroom renovation costs vary based on size, scope, and finish level. Use these quick ranges for initial planning:
- Basic refresh (fixtures, paint, minor updates): $5,000 – $12,000.
- Mid-range full remodel (new fixtures, tiles, cabinetry, shower/tub): $12,000 – $25,000.
- High-end renovation (luxury finishes, structural changes, heated floors): $25,000 – $55,000+.
These ranges reflect recent Canadian and Edmonton-specific pricing guides and contractor estimates; always request a detailed, itemized quote for an accurate project budget.
Why prices vary: The main cost drivers
Several factors cause big differences between low-cost and high-end bathroom renovations:
Scope of work
- Cosmetic refresh (paint, vanity, fixtures) costs much less than a gut-and-rebuild that moves plumbing or changes layout.
- Adding a new bathroom where none existed requires new drains and venting — a costly item.
Plumbing and electrical changes
- If you relocate drains, add a bathtub, or reconfigure plumbing, expect several thousand dollars in labour and materials.
- Rewiring, adding GFCI circuits, or installing new light fixtures or exhaust fans adds to the cost.
Waterproofing and waterproof assemblies
- Proper shower waterproofing (membrane, pan, drain) prevents future mould and damage and should never be compromised; it’s an investment that pays off over time.
Fixtures and finishes
- Vanity style, countertop material, tile choices, shower door type, and plumbing fixtures drive large portions of the budget. Stock vanities and acrylic showers are economical; custom cabinetry and natural stone tiles increase costs significantly.
Labour and specialized trades
- Certified plumbers, electricians, tile setters, and finish carpenters are required for safe, code-compliant work. Labour rates in Edmonton can vary by contractor and season.
Edmonton-specific considerations: permits and code
Edmonton requires permits for many types of bathroom work. Interior alterations that change plumbing, structure, or change the configuration of living spaces typically require building and plumbing permits. Starting construction without the proper permits can result in stop-work orders, fines, and problems at resale, so make sure permits are handled up front. Contractors experienced with Edmonton’s permit processes (like Steadfast Constructions) will submit drawings, pull the permits, and schedule inspections for you. edmonton.ca
Pro tip: Cosmetic-only work (replacing faucets, swapping lighting, cosmetic resurfacing without moving plumbing or structure) often does not require a building permit — but always verify with the City or your contractor.
Typical cost breakdown (itemized example)
Here’s a representative itemized breakdown for a mid-range full bathroom remodel (approx. 8–10 m² / 90–110 ft²):
- Demolition & disposal: $800 – $2,000
- Plumbing rough-in and fixtures: $2,000 – $6,000
- Electrical (new circuits, lighting, exhaust): $800 – $2,500
- Waterproofing & shower pan: $800 – $3,500
- Cabinetry & vanity: $1,200 – $6,000
- Countertop (quartz or comparable): $800 – $3,000
- Tile (walls & floor) and labor: $2,000 – $8,000
- Toilet & fixtures: $300 – $1,200
- Glass shower door: $800 – $2,000
- Painting & final trim: $400 – $1,200
- Permit & inspections: $150 – $600 (dependent on scope)
- Contingency (10–15%): variable
Totals align with the mid-range $12K–$25K estimates shown in local and national guides. Exact costs will depend heavily on tile choice, cabinet quality, and whether plumbing is moved. homestars.com RenovationFind Blog
Examples of project types and realistic budgets
Below are concrete project scenarios with realistic Edmonton cost ranges to help you visualize where your project may land.
Scenario A: Small cosmetic refresh (no plumbing moves)
- Scope: Replace vanity, update faucet, re-tile shower surround (surface only), new mirror, new lighting, fresh paint.
- Estimated cost: $5,000 – $10,000.
- Why this is cheaper: Keeps plumbing/electrical in place and avoids demolition to the studs.
Scenario B: Mid-range full remodel
- Scope: Remove to studs, new tile floor and shower, new vanity and quartz countertop, new toilet, new exhaust fan, new lighting, replace subfloor as needed.
- Estimated cost: $12,000 – $25,000.
- This is common for homeowners who want a fresh, modern bathroom without luxury fixtures.
Scenario C: Luxury overhaul or layout change
- Scope: Reconfigure layout, move plumbing/drain lines, install heated floors, frameless glass, high-end tile, custom cabinetry, double vanity, and steam shower.
- Estimated cost: $25,000 – $55,000+.
- Why costs jump: Structural and plumbing moves, plus luxury materials and long lead-time fixtures, increase both material and labour costs.
Timeframes: How long will a bathroom remodel take?
Typical schedules (subject to contractor availability and permit timing):
- Cosmetic refresh: 1–2 weeks.
- Mid-range full remodel (gut to finish): 3–6 weeks.
- High-end or layout-changing remodel: 6–10+ weeks (more if structural work, custom cabinetry, or product lead times are involved).
Delays are most often caused by permit processing, hidden substrate or plumbing issues, and fixture lead times. A reputable contractor provides a project schedule and communicates delays early.
How to save money without sacrificing quality
Smart choices can lower cost while maintaining durability and resale value:
- Keep plumbing locations: Designing around existing drains and water lines saves thousands.
- Mix high and low finishes: Spend on visible, long-lasting items (vanity, countertop) and economize on trim or hardware.
- Choose practical tile sizes: Large-format tiles can be expensive to install; consider mid-range sizes for savings.
- Reuse footprint: If the bathtub works structurally, consider refinishing rather than replacing.
- Plan for efficient ventilation: Proper ventilation prevents moisture problems that cause expensive future repairs.
Steadfast Constructions helps homeowners prioritize high-value items so your budget buys the most impact.
Hiring a bathroom contractor in Edmonton: What to check
Before you hire, verify the following:
- Licence and insurance: Contractor should be registered in Alberta and carry liability insurance and WCB coverage.
- Written, itemized estimate and contract: The contract should list scope, materials, payment schedule, timeline, warranty, and the change-order process. RenoMark members and reputable renovators provide written contracts and warranty commitments. Canadian Home Builders’ Association
- Local references and portfolio: Look for recent Edmonton jobs and ask for client contacts.
- Permits and inspections: Confirm the contractor will pull permits and arrange inspections where required.
- Warranty & aftercare: Ask what warranty the contractor provides on workmanship and how they handle warranty requests.
Red flags: demands for cash-only payment, no written contract, no references, or reluctance to show insurance documents.
Real Edmonton case study, Mid-range ensuite remodel
Project summary: 1970s bungalow, primary ensuite renovation (4.5 m²), mid-range finishes, kept plumbing roughly in the same footprint.
Approach: Steadfast Constructions completed a full gut-to-studs, installed a new waterproof membrane, tiled the shower and floor, installed a floating vanity and quartz countertop, upgraded ventilation, and applied LED lighting. Permits were pulled, and the final inspection was completed.
Budget: $18,200 (incl. labour, materials, permits, and 10% contingency).
Timeline: 5 weeks.
Outcome: The homeowners gained a modern ensuite and reported better ventilation and lower condensation. The project also improved resale appeal and required no follow-up warranty issues.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping permit checks: Unpermitted work can cause issues at resale and with insurance. Confirm early. edmonton.ca
- Choosing the lowest bid blindly: Very low prices often hide scope omissions or lower-quality materials.
- Neglecting ventilation: Proper fan sizing and venting prevent mould.
- No contingency: Unexpected findings in older homes are common — budget 10–15% extra.
- Poor waterproofing: Skimping on membranes or a correct shower assembly leads to long-term damage.
Financing and ROI
Home renovations are commonly financed by savings, home equity lines of credit (HELOC), refinancing, or contractor financing, where available. While exact ROI varies, bathroom remodels usually return a good portion of their cost at resale because buyers value modern, well-built bathrooms. National renovation trends and sustained renovation demand at the municipal level indicate homeowners continue to invest in upgrades, making properly executed bathroom work a sound investment. cmhc-schl.gc.ca
Why choose Steadfast Constructions for your bathroom project
Steadfast Constructions is an Edmonton-based contractor focused on high-quality bathroom renovations and whole-home projects. Here’s what we bring to your bathroom remodel:
- Local expertise: We know Edmonton’s permit triggers, inspection process, and climate-related construction best practices. edmonton.ca
- Transparent pricing: Itemized quotes and fixed-scope contracts reduce surprises.
- Licensed trades & warranty: We use certified plumbers and electricians, carry insurance, and stand behind our workmanship. We follow RenoMark-style best practices for contracts and warranties. Canadian Home Builders’ Association
- Project management: Single point of contact, clear schedule, and regular updates during construction.
- Aftercare: We handle warranty requests and follow-up service to make sure your bathroom performs for years.
If you want a bathroom that’s beautiful, durable, and built to code, Steadfast Constructions can help. Contact us for a free consultation and an accurate, itemized estimate for your Edmonton bathroom.
Conclusion: plan well, hire smart, and budget realistically
Planning a bathroom renovation in Edmonton can be straightforward when you start with realistic expectations and the right team. Typical 2025 budgets range from $5,000 for small cosmetic work to $55,000+ for luxury reconfigurations. The keys to success are accurate scope definition, attention to waterproofing and ventilation, permit compliance, and hiring licensed trades coordinated by a reliable contractor.
Steadfast Constructions offers local knowledge, transparent quotes, and full project management so your bathroom remodel is comfortable, compliant, and completed on schedule. Contact Steadfast Constructions today for a free consultation and a clear, itemized budget tailored to your bathroom project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average bathroom renovation cost in Edmonton in 2025?
Average costs vary by scope. Expect roughly $5,000–$12,000 for cosmetic refreshes, $12,000–$25,000 for mid-range full remodels, and $25,000–$55,000+ for high-end or layout-changing renovations. Always get an itemized quote for accuracy.
Do I need a permit to renovate my bathroom in Edmonton?
Permits are usually required when plumbing, electrical, structural changes, or adding new bathrooms occur. Cosmetic-only upgrades that do not move plumbing or alter structure often don’t need permits, but your contractor should confirm and obtain any required permits.
How long will a bathroom renovation take?
Timelines range from about 1–2 weeks for small cosmetic updates to 3–10+ weeks for full remodels or layout changes. Permit processing, discovery of hidden issues, and fixture lead times can extend schedules.
How can I keep my bathroom renovation costs under control?
Keep plumbing locations the same, choose a mix of high- and low-cost finishes, plan carefully to avoid change orders, and get multiple itemized quotes. Budget a contingency of 10–15% for unexpected work.
Why should I hire a local contractor like Steadfast Constructions?
Local contractors understand Edmonton’s permit rules, climate-related material concerns, and have local supplier networks. Steadfast provides itemized quotes, licensed trades, permit management, and a workmanship commitment so you’re protected during and after the renovation.
