Burnaby Bathroom Renovation Guide 2026: Costs, Timeline & Real Projects
Planning a bathroom renovation in Burnaby? This guide covers real project costs ($20K–$32K from our completed projects), typical timelines, strata requirements, and what to expect at each renovation stage.
If you own a condo, townhouse, or detached home in Burnaby and are planning a bathroom renovation, this guide gives you honest, data-backed information based on our team's actual completed projects in the area.
What Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost in Burnaby?
Based on our completed Burnaby bathroom projects, here are real price ranges:
| Renovation Type | Budget Range | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Standard update (vanity, tile, fixtures) | $20,000–$25,000 | 2–3 weeks |
| Mid-range with custom features | $25,000–$28,000 | 3–4 weeks |
| Full master ensuite renovation | $28,000–$32,000 | 4–5 weeks |
| Luxury ensuite with soaker tub | $32,000–$45,000+ | 5–7 weeks |
These prices include labour, materials, tile, plumbing fixtures, lighting, vanity, and permit fees. They do not include structural changes or moving walls.
What's Included in a Typical Burnaby Bathroom Renovation
A full bathroom renovation in Burnaby typically includes:
Demolition and prep
- Remove existing tile, vanity, toilet, tub/shower surround
- Inspect subfloor and repair if needed
- Update waterproofing membrane (required by BC Building Code)
Plumbing work
- Relocate or replace supply and drain lines as required
- Install new shower valve, tub filler, or faucet
- Rough-in for any relocated fixtures
- Pressure test before closing walls
Tile and waterproofing
- Floor tile installation (heated floor optional)
- Shower or tub surround tile (floor-to-ceiling is the standard in Burnaby condos)
- Grout sealing
Fixtures and finishing
- Vanity installation with undermount or integrated sink
- Mirror or medicine cabinet
- Lighting — potlights, vanity bar, or feature lighting
- Towel bars, toilet paper holder, hooks
- Toilet installation (optional — most clients keep the existing toilet if it's in good condition)
Strata Requirements for Burnaby Condos and Townhouses
Most Burnaby bathroom renovations require strata approval before work begins. Here's what the strata typically requires:
- Application form — description of work, start/end dates, contractor information
- Insurance certificate — contractor liability insurance naming the strata corporation
- Noise hours compliance — in most Burnaby stratas, noisy work is permitted Monday–Friday 8 AM–5 PM only
- Elevator booking — material deliveries and debris removal must use the service elevator
- Flooring requirements — if removing carpet and installing hard flooring, some stratas require a specific STC (sound transmission class) rating for the underlayment
We manage all of this as part of our standard service for Burnaby condo projects.
Neighbourhood-Specific Notes
Metrotown and Brentwood high-rises: These buildings typically have strict noise and access schedules. We're experienced with the logistics of major towers in both areas and pre-coordinate with building management.
Burnaby townhomes (Burnaby Mountain, Sullivan Heights, Edmonds): More flexibility on scheduling, and often a larger bathroom footprint. These projects tend to have better value-per-dollar outcomes.
South Slope and Deer Lake single-family homes: Older homes (1960s–1980s) often have original tile and plumbing that needs full replacement. Budget an additional $2,000–$5,000 for unforeseen plumbing updates in homes of this era.
How the Renovation Process Works at Reno Stars
Free quote visit (1–2 hours): We measure the space, discuss your vision, and identify any existing conditions (moisture issues, old plumbing, strata requirements). You receive a written, itemized quote within 3 business days.
Design phase (1–2 weeks): We help you select tile, fixtures, vanity, and finishes. We can supply all materials or work with what you've sourced.
Permit and strata approval (1–3 weeks depending on strata): We handle permit applications and strata paperwork.
Construction (2–5 weeks): Daily updates. We clean up every day before leaving. Our foreman is available for any questions.
Final walkthrough and touch-ups: We don't consider a project done until you're satisfied. Our 3-year workmanship warranty covers any defects after completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay in my condo during the renovation? Yes, most clients do. We minimize dust spread with zippered barriers and clean the work area daily. For the 1–2 days of heaviest demolition, some clients prefer to stay elsewhere.
Do I need a permit for a bathroom renovation in Burnaby? If you're moving any plumbing or electrical, yes — a permit is required. If it's purely cosmetic (tile, paint, fixtures in the same location), a permit may not be required. We assess this during the quote visit and pull all necessary permits as part of our service.
How do I avoid going over budget? The two biggest sources of budget overruns are: (1) discovering water damage or rotten subfloor during demolition, and (2) changing your material selections after work has started. We address the first by inspecting thoroughly before pricing, and the second by finalizing all selections before construction begins.
Ready to start your Burnaby bathroom renovation? Call us at 778-960-7999 or request a free quote online.