If you are living in a condo and want to do a complete condo bathroom remodel, hold on—there might be a bunch of things you need to consider.
Your bathroom is more than just a place to shower; it’s where you get ready and often do your makeup too. In a condo, however, you may face a few challenges before jumping into a bathroom remodel. That’s why it’s important to understand how to make the most of your renovation without running into issues.
To help, we’ve put together the top 7 things to consider before remodeling your condo bathroom. Let’s walk through each one.
1. Get the Approvals from the Authorities
Before you knock down walls or rip out plumbing, you need approval from your HOA (Homeowners Association) or condo board. Most condo buildings have strict rules around remodeling.
Here’s what to check for:
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Time restrictions (many buildings restrict work after 5 PM or on weekends)
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Licensing requirements for contractors
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Permits for electrical or plumbing work
Always get approvals in writing to avoid legal or scheduling delays.
2. Review the Plumbing Layout
In condos, plumbing systems are often vertically stacked, meaning your bathroom shares a plumbing system with the units above and below. This can limit what you’re allowed to move or change.
Tips for working with existing plumbing:
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Stick to the current layout to save on cost and avoid violations
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Replace old fixtures with modern, water-efficient options
You can give your bathroom a fresh look without shifting major plumbing lines.
3. Maximize Storage in a Small Space
Condos aren’t known for having massive bathrooms. Storage is often tight—but smart design can make even small bathrooms feel bigger.
Try these storage-maximizing tips:
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Install a frameless glass shower instead of bulky curtains
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Choose a floating vanity to create the illusion of more floor space
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Use built-in shelves to eliminate clutter and keep things organized
Every inch matters—plan intentionally.
4. Focus on Proper Lighting
Dim, poorly lit bathrooms can feel small, cold, and uninviting. Condo bathrooms often suffer from a lack of natural light, so artificial lighting becomes even more important.
Use layered lighting to transform your space:
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Ambient lighting: Overhead fixtures for general illumination
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Accent lighting: Wall sconces or under-cabinet lights for warmth
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Task lighting: Focused lights around the mirror or vanity
LED lights with soft, warm tones work best to create a flattering and welcoming glow.
5. Don’t Overlook Ventilation
A bathroom with poor ventilation is a recipe for mold, odors, and moisture damage. In many condos, bathrooms lack windows—so you’ll need mechanical ventilation.
Good ventilation is about more than comfort. It’s essential for maintaining long-term durability of your finishes and preventing costly damage over time.
If your unit doesn’t already have an exhaust fan, this is a must-add during your remodel.
6. Choose Durable, Moisture-Resistant Materials
Your bathroom is exposed to moisture, heat, and heavy use daily—so your materials should hold up over time.
Recommended materials include:
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Porcelain or ceramic tile for walls and floors—long-lasting and easy to clean
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Quartz countertops—stain-resistant, non-porous, and low-maintenance
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Marine-grade or PVC cabinets—designed to resist humidity
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Anti-slip floor tiles—especially important for safety around kids or older adults
Investing in the right materials ensures your bathroom looks great for years to come.
7. Prioritize and Plan Your Budget Wisely
Bathroom remodeling may seem simple at first—but costs can add up fast, especially in a condo.
Be thoughtful and plan a realistic budget. Always include an extra 15–20% buffer for unexpected expenses like hidden water damage, outdated wiring, or structural issues.
Common extra costs include:
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Flooring repairs
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Permit fees
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Plumbing upgrades
Pro tip: Divide your budget into categories like materials, labor, and permits to stay on track and avoid overspending.
Always Hire a Professional Contractor
Once you’ve considered the logistics, materials, and budget, the final—and most crucial—step is choosing the right contractor.
Hiring someone cheap might seem like a way to save money, but in reality, it can lead to delays, poor workmanship, or even unsafe conditions.
Instead, look for professionals who:
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Have years of experience with condo remodels
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Understand local building codes and permit requirements
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Are licensed and insured
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Provide clear, transparent pricing
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Offer great customer service and communication
Best Home Remodeling CT meets all these qualifications and more. We specialize in condo bathroom remodel and are proud to serve homeowners throughout Branford and beyond.
Let’s make your dream bathroom a reality—book a free consultation today!
Conclusion
Remodeling your condo bathroom can be an exciting step toward creating a space that’s more beautiful, functional, and personalized. But before you dive in, it’s important to understand what’s involved.
From getting approvals and working around your plumbing to choosing the right materials and lighting, every detail matters. And above all, having the right contractor makes all the difference in turning your vision into a finished product you’ll love.
When you’re ready, trust the experts at Best Home Remodeling CT to guide you through the process—seamlessly, professionally, and on time.
FAQs
Can you move a bathroom in a condo?
Usually, no. Most condo buildings use concrete flooring, making it extremely difficult—and sometimes prohibited—to reroute plumbing.
Why is condo renovation more expensive?
Condo renovations often involve tight spaces, high labor costs, permit rules, and coordination with building management—all of which can drive up costs.
What is the most expensive part of a condo renovation?
Bathrooms and kitchens are typically the most expensive due to plumbing, cabinetry, and material costs.
Which are the hardest areas of a condo to renovate?
The kitchen and bathroom are the toughest to renovate due to limited space and shared building systems like plumbing and ventilation.
