Sanitary renovation: step plan without pitfalls

The biggest mistake in a sanitary renovation is jumping straight to tile samples. The right order is the opposite: piping first, then fittings, then electrics, then tiles, then colour. Here is a realistic plan as we run it with our clients.

Phase 1 — Survey (week 1)

Before a single tile gets sold, three things go on the table: a measurement of the existing situation (dimensions + pipe heights), an EPC or asbestos certificate if needed, and a thorough check of the existing connections. We never work on assumptions — measure and verify before designing.

Phase 2 — Design and sanitaryware choice (weeks 2-3)

From the survey we draft 2 or 3 layout options. For each: a 2D plan with dimensions + a 3D render. Only then does the client pick the sanitaryware (tap, shower, WC, basin). Tiles come last — pick them after the fittings, not before.

1. Lock the layout: floorplan, walk-in/cubicle size, WC and basin positions
2. Pick fittings: brand and model, in showroom or with us
3. Then and only then: tiles — floor and wall, size and colour
4. Lighting and mirror plan last

Phase 3 — Execution (weeks 4-7)

Typical sequence on site: demolition (1 day), new piping + fixture frames (2-3 days), plasterwork as needed (1-2 days), tiling (3-5 days), fixture installation (1-2 days), clean and handover (1 day). Allow at least 4 weeks for a typical bathroom, 6-7 for a large or complex one.

Phase 4 — Handover and guarantee

At handover we walk the installation with the client: flushing, pressure check, every connection inspected. You get a dossier with brands, models, guarantee periods and our 10-year guarantee on the plumbing. An insurance certificate is always included.

A well-planned sanitary project is surprisingly calm. Most stress comes from wrong order and uncordered materials — exactly the things we pin down at the start of our planning.