Tips For a Successful Apartment Bathroom Renovation

A freshened up bathroom is a welcome addition to any apartment. But it can feel tricky to update if you’re renting and can’t install new flooring or a tub.

Tenants can perform a number of small renovation changes without the landlord’s consent but major structural changes such as removing a bathtub require a Body Corporate application and can be costly.

Layout

When you’re living in a rented apartment, the landlord is legally obliged to keep the bathroom in working order. However, the tenant is free to make changes that improve functionality or aesthetics without permission from the landlord.

One common layout is to position the sink, toilet, and shower or tub on the same wall. This can work well if you’re limited by space. But it’s a bit more expensive than installing a full bath because of the need to relocate plumbing pipes.

Luckily, there are plenty of apartment bathroom ideas that will boost the look and function of your space. From decorative shower tiles to heated towel racks, these transformational design tips are renter-friendly and won’t detract from your property’s resale value.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing may not be the most exciting part of a bathroom renovation, but it’s certainly one of the most important. Moisture leaking from the inside of a wall is not just irritating but can also lead to significant damage that will significantly reduce the value of the property.

If a tenant decides to modernize or renovate the apartment bathroom, he is obligated to inform the landlord of this and obtain consent. Otherwise, the landlord can demand that the original condition be restored at great cost to the tenant when he moves out.

To avoid this, it is advisable to stick to minor changes that can be undone without problems or invasive interventions that cause no damage. For example mirrors, lamps and towel rails are acceptable because they don’t require any drilling holes in the tile surfaces. Rather than using a plastic vapor retarder sheet on the stud surface of the outside shower walls, it’s recommended to use a low perm waterproofing membrane like Wedi or Durock (or NobleSeal TS) in a “sandwich” application that encapsulates the wall studs.

Lighting

The lighting of your bathroom is important. It should be bright enough to do the job, but not so much that it’s too harsh on your eyes. Opaque or frosted bulbs can help keep the space looking clean and fresh and they also don’t cast shadows. If possible, opt for lights that hang above the mirror rather than ones that are mounted on the ceiling. This way you can control the direction of the light and avoid glare.

Changing the light fixtures can be a quick and easy way to transform the room. Investing in new pendants or sconces is a simple and budget-friendly way to make the space look fresher.

If you’re in a rented apartment it may be difficult to install a new bathtub or change out the shower, but there are still plenty of things you can do to give your rental a more spa-like feel. Just be sure to speak with your landlord and find out what they’re okay with in advance.

Plumbing

Plumbing is an essential part of a renovation. Before any changes are made, the current water system needs to be assessed and a permit applied for (if needed). It’s crucial to understand and discuss your options with a licensed plumber before you start work. The type of piping you choose will affect both the cost and how long your pipes will last, so it’s worth talking to experts before making a decision.

If your building’s alteration agreement allows it, a washer/dryer can be added to a bathroom. Sweeten homeowner Isis and her contractor knocked down a wall and rearranged the floor plan to fit a pair of 24-inch washer/dryers. It took some Tetris skills!

Whether you remodel or renovate your apartment bathroom will ultimately depend on the scope of work, budget and your goals for future resale. But one thing’s for sure: a renovated bathroom adds value. So, start planning and preparing to reap the rewards!

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