Ensuite renovation cost in Melbourne

By the WTD team · Updated June 2026

An ensuite renovation in Melbourne typically runs $12,000 to $22,000 — often more per square metre than the main bathroom, because the same fixtures, waterproofing and trades are packed into a smaller, higher-spec room.

Quick answer — ensuite renovation cost in Melbourne

Why an ensuite often costs more per square metre than the main bathroom

An ensuite is usually smaller than the main bathroom but rarely cheaper per square metre. It still needs the same five trades, the same waterproofing membrane and the same plumbing rough-in — packed into a tighter space that's slower to work in. On top of that, ensuites tend to attract the higher-spec choices: frameless screens, wall-hung vanities, heated towel rails and feature tiling. The room is smaller; the standard is higher.

The upgrades that lift an ensuite budget

The usual culprits are a frameless shower screen (around $1,200–$1,800 versus $600–$900 for semi-frameless), a heated towel rail and underfloor heating (popular in Melbourne given the winters, roughly $900–$2,500 installed including the electrical), a double vanity, and large-format or feature tiles that cost more to supply and are slower to lay. None are essential, but two or three together move a standard ensuite into premium territory.

Where the money goes in a Melbourne ensuite

On a typical $17,000 ensuite the split runs roughly: trades labour 38%, tiles and tiling ~22%, fixtures and fittings ~25%, waterproofing 6–8%, and demolition plus rubbish around 7%. Because ensuites sit off a bedroom, protecting carpet, doors and adjoining rooms during demolition adds a little to the prep — a detail budget quotes sometimes leave out.

Itemised example — Hawthorn ensuite, 4.5 m²

Frequently asked questions

Why is my ensuite quote higher than the main bathroom?

Because per square metre it usually is. The same trades, membrane and rough-in go into a smaller, tighter room, and ensuites attract higher-spec choices — frameless screens, heated rails, feature tiles. A smaller floor doesn't mean a smaller bill.

How much does a double vanity add?

A double vanity typically adds $800–$2,000 over a single, depending on size and finish, plus a little extra plumbing for the second basin. It's one of the most popular ensuite upgrades and one of the easiest to scale up or down on budget.

Can I add a brand-new ensuite where there wasn't one?

Often yes, but the cost depends on how far the nearest water and waste lines are. An ensuite that backs onto existing bathroom plumbing is far cheaper than one on the far side of the house, which can need significant pipework and add $3,000–$8,000 to the job.

Is underfloor heating worth it in a Melbourne ensuite?

Many Melbourne owners think so given the cold mornings. Electric underfloor heating runs roughly $900–$2,500 installed for a small ensuite including the electrical work, and it's far cheaper to add during the reno than to retrofit later.

Does an ensuite add value to a Melbourne home?

A well-finished ensuite is one of the more reliable renovations for resale appeal, particularly off the main bedroom. The return depends on the suburb and how the spend compares to the home's overall value — over-capitalising on a modest home is the risk.