So, you’re staring at that outdated bathroom in your co-op or condo, dreaming of a spa-like retreat? A lot of people do. But before you start ripping tiles out, it is important to review the costs. Bathroom renovations in shared buildings come with their own special flavor of complexity and pricing that might genuinely surprise you. From board approvals to complex plumbing, here’s a breakdown of what you can actually expect to spend to achieve the bathroom of your dreams.
The Board Approval Gauntlet
Before a single tile gets laid, you’ll need your building’s blessing. Most condominiums and cooperatives require alteration agreements, a certificate of insurance, and architectural plans. Expect to spend $1,000–$5,000 to complete all administrative tasks, depending on your building’s pickiness. Some buildings require engineer-stamped plans for simple renovations, while others just need a handshake and a promise.
Plumbing: Where Your Budget Springs a Leak
Unlike normal suburban houses with crawl spaces, co-op condo plumbing is oddly hidden away in concrete and rebar in walls. If you need to move a toilet or shower, be prepared to fork over $1,500 to $4,000 for each fixture. However, basic updates run more reasonably:
- Replacing existing fixtures: $800–$1,500
- New vanity plumbing: $400–$900
- Full repipe with upgraded materials: $2,500–$6,000
In prewar buildings, with galvanized pipes that are older than your grandparents, plumbers might discover surprises that bump costs by 20 to 30%. Factor in a contingency fund because, let’s be honest, they always find something.
Tile Work That Won’t Crack Your Wallet (Too Much)
Tile transforms bathrooms from drab to fab, but it’s labor-intensive work. In tight co-op quarters where installers can’t swing sledgehammers freely, precision costs extra.
Material Choices
Standard ceramic tiles start around $3–$8 per square foot, while designer porcelain or natural stone jumps to $15–$40 per square foot. Installation typically runs $10–$25 per square foot, depending on complexity.
Labor Reality Check
- Basic subway tile installation: $12–$18/sq ft
- Intricate mosaic or herringbone patterns: $20–$35/sq ft
- Floor-to-ceiling shower enclosure: $2,000–$5,000 total
Remember, demo and disposal add $500–$1,200 in co-op buildings where contractors must book service elevators and follow strict hauling schedules.
