Thinking of renovating your bathroom? Whether you’re planning a full makeover or just upgrading fixtures, it’s easy to focus on tiles, tapware and styling, and overlook what lies beneath.
At STS Plumbing, we’ve helped countless North Shore homeowners through successful bathroom renovations, and we’ve also been called in to fix the results of rushed, under-planned, or DIY plumbing jobs. The truth is, poor plumbing decisions during a renovation can lead to leaks, blocked drains, mould and costly rework down the track.
Here are 5 common plumbing mistakes we see during bathroom renovations, and how to avoid them.
1. Skipping proper drainage planning
In the excitement of picking tiles and vanities, drainage layout often gets overlooked. But the position of your toilet, shower waste and basin plumbing isn’t just about convenience, it’s about whether your bathroom will drain properly.
What goes wrong:
- Showers placed too far from existing drains, causing slow drainage
- Poor fall (slope) to waste points, leading to pooling water
- Fixtures installed without accounting for venting or pipe size
How STS prevents this:
We inspect your existing drainage system and plan the layout based on how your home is built, not just where the vanity looks best. We ensure all waste points comply with plumbing code and drain efficiently, with future access in mind.
2. Not waterproofing properly (or not at all)
One of the most expensive renovation failures is waterproofing done poorly, or skipped altogether. It’s a common issue in DIY jobs or where unlicensed trades are used.
What goes wrong:
- Waterproofing membranes applied incorrectly or over dirty surfaces
- Missing corners, junctions or wall penetrations
- Using the wrong type of product for wet areas
Real example:
We recently inspected a bathroom in Willoughby that had been renovated less than 2 years prior. Water was seeping into the subfloor due to a failed membrane behind the shower. The homeowner now faces a full re-do, including removal of tiles and fittings.
Why STS gets it right:
Our licensed team works with certified waterproofers to apply and test the membrane before any tiling or fit-off. We also photograph and document every stage for quality assurance. and your peace of mind.
3. Using unlicensed trades
Using mates, handyman services or budget contractors might save you short term, but it could cost you your insurance, compliance and resale value.
What goes wrong:
- No compliance certificate issued
- Hidden leaks that go unnoticed until major damage appears
- Insurance claims rejected due to unlicensed work
Check if your tradie is licenced here
The STS difference:
We’re fully licensed, insured and experienced in bathroom renovations across the North Shore. Every job includes plumbing certificates, waterproofing documentation and a final walkthrough to ensure everything meets NSW building code requirements and your expectations.
4. Choosing style over function
A wall-hung vanity might look great in a showroom, but is it practical for your family, your plumbing layout, and your wall type?
What goes wrong:
- Fixtures that don’t match the pipework behind the wall
- Storage and tapware placed in hard-to-reach spot
- Tight spaces made worse by oversized fittings
How STS helps:
We review every layout with a plumber’s eye, and offer smarter options that still match your design goals. We also coordinate with your cabinetmaker or designer to ensure everything lines up before install day.
5. Poor renovation sequencing
Even with good trades, the job can fall apart if the timeline isn’t managed properly.
What goes wrong:
- Trades turning up out of order, causing delays
- Fixtures installed before waterproofing is finished
- Multiple reworks due to miscommunication
What we do instead:
STS Plumbing manages every phase, from demolition and rough-in to tiling and final fit-off. We coordinate licensed builders, waterproofers, electricians and tilers, so the job runs smoothly and efficiently.
Why choose STS Plumbing for your renovation?
Renovating your bathroom should be exciting! …not stressful. With STS Plumbing, you get:
- Over 20 years’ experience in North Shore bathroom renovations
- Fully licensed and insured trades
- Honest advice and fixed pricing
- One point of contact from start to finish
- Work that’s done properly AND fast
Whether you’re refreshing a tired bathroom or starting from scratch, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Ready to plan your bathroom upgrade?
Book a bathroom renovation consultation with STS Plumbing today. We’ll assess your space, talk through your goals, and help you avoid the common traps.
Call 9904 3074 or request a renovation quote online
