Guide to Bathroom Renovation or Remodelling in Victoria

If you're planning a bathroom renovation or remodel in Victoria, it's important to know whether you need a building permit. In this blog post, we'll cover the key information you need to know, including when a permit is required, the reasons for getting a permit, the types of renovations that require a permit, how to apply for a permit, and why you should choose CODE HQ for your bathroom renovation project.

Do I need a building permit for a bathroom renovation in Victoria?

In Victoria, a building permit is required for any renovation or alteration that increases or decreases the existing floor area of the dwelling or if it involves structural changes. This means that most bathroom renovations will not necessarily require a building permit if you're only making cosmetic changes, such as replacing tiles, cabinetry or fixtures. If you’re in any doubt it's important to check with professional building surveyor like CODE HQ to determine whether a permit is required for your specific renovation.

Reasons for getting a permit

Obtaining a building permit (when required) for your bathroom renovation is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the renovation work is safe and complies with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and local building regulations. When a Building Permit is issued for a bathroom renovation the Building Surveyor will ensure the design complies with a number of different health and safety requirements as well as waterproofing of the walls and floor to ensure the dwelling is protected from moisture. It also ensures that any plumbing or electrical work is carried out by licensed professionals and meets the relevant standards. Additionally, having a permit can protect you from liability in case of any accidents or issues that may arise during or after the renovation.

DID YOU KNOW? The bathroom is one of the most highly regulated rooms in your house. There are many different compliance requirements set out in the BCA, from waterproofing, glazing and ventilation all the way down to the types of hinges that can be used on the doors.

Bathroom renovations that need a permit

Bathroom renovations that typically require a building permit include:

• Moving, altering or removing loadbearing walls
• Installing, altering or removing windows
• Installation of a niche in a loadbearing wall
• Extensions beyond the existing building footprint
• Installation of large and heavy objects such as stone or concrete baths that require additional structural support

Bathroom renovations that don't need a permit

Bathroom renovations that may not require a building permit include:

• Replacing tiles or fixtures
• Painting walls or cabinets
• Refinishing countertops or cabinets
• Replacing lighting fixtures
• Replacing mirrors
• Installing new towel racks or hooks

It's important to note that while these renovations may not require a permit, they still need to comply with the BCA and local building and plumbing regulations.

How to apply for a permit?

To apply for a building permit for your bathroom renovation in Victoria, you can submit a Building Permit Application to CODE HQ. The application should include detailed plans and specifications of the proposed renovation work, including structural drawings, plumbing and electrical plans, and engineering details. The application fee will vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project. Here are the steps to follow when applying for a permit:

Step 1: Prepare your application

Refer to our application checklist for more detailed description, however generally your permit application must include the following:

• Title documents
  
• A site and floor plan showing the location of the proposed works
• A detailed description of the works, including materials and design details
• Structural details. It may be necessary to engage an engineer in certain circumstances

Step 2: Submit your application

Once you have completed your application, submit it to CODE HQ with the required fee.

Step 3: Wait for approval

One of our technical team will review your application and notify you of their decision. If your application is approved, you can proceed with your works. If we require further information from you we will write to you detailing exactly what we need to further assess your application.

Why choose CODE HQ?

If you're planning a bathroom renovation or remodel in Victoria, choosing a professional building surveyor like CODE HQ can provide peace of mind and ensure that your renovation meets all the necessary safety and compliance requirements. CODE HQ is a leading provider of building surveying services in Victoria, with a team of experienced and qualified building surveyors and inspectors who can assist with all aspects of the building process, from obtaining building permits to carrying out inspections and issuing Occupancy Permits and Certificates of Final Inspection.

CODE HQ also offers a range of other services, including:

• Building permits and approvals
• Building inspections and audits
• Pool Barrier compliance and advice
• Essential Safety Measures, Fire Maintenance & Inspections
• Maximum Patron Capacity Reports for your Liquor License application

In summary, applying for a bathroom renovation or remodel permit in Victoria is relatively straightforward. To request an obligation free quote, simply submit your contact details and specifics of your project to CODE HQ, and one of our staff will respond to you within 24-48 hours. CODE HQ is a reliable and trusted provider of building permits right across Victoria.