What to Expect During a Bathroom Renovation — And How to Stay Comfortable

A bathroom renovation is one of the most valuable upgrades you can make to your home- and not just in terms of resale. A well-designed bathroom makes daily life easier. Better lighting, better layout, modern fittings- all the things that turn a basic routine into a more comfortable experience.

Whether you're updating a tired space or investing in a complete transformation, it's a smart improvement. But like any building project, it does come with some disruption. The good news is, with the right planning, you don’t need to move out. You just need to be prepared.

How Long Does a Bathroom Renovation Take?

In most Victorian homes, a standard bathroom renovation takes around two to four weeks. A typical timeline includes:

• Demolition and strip-out

• Plumbing and electrical rough-in

• Waterproofing and drying time

• Tiling, cabinetry, and fit-off

• Final connections and clean-up

Delays can happen — especially with custom joinery or weather-affected sites — but a good builder will give you a realistic timeline and stick to it as closely as possible.

At Kepal, we aim to minimise downtime through careful planning and reliable trades. Our clients know what’s happening each week and what to expect next.

Can You Stay in the House During the Renovation?

Yes, in many cases, you can. But it depends on the layout of your home and whether you have access to another working bathroom.

When the only bathroom is being renovated, the impact is bigger: no toilet, no shower, potential water shut-offs, and regular trades on site. It’s manageable in the short term, but it can wear thin quickly- especially for families or older residents who rely on easy bathroom access.

Why a Portable Ensuite Makes All the Difference

Rather than move out or deal with the daily inconvenience, more homeowners are choosing to hire a portable bathroom during the renovation. It’s a straightforward solution that lets you stay on-site without sacrificing comfort or hygiene.

That’s where Enroute Ensuites comes in- a portable bathroom service designed specifically for homeowners renovating in Victoria. Unit options include:

• Flushing toilet

• A full-size shower with hot water

• Interior lighting, lockable door, and solid ventilation

Whether you're managing a family household or just prefer to keep an eye on the work, having a proper ensuite on-site makes it much easier to stay home and stay comfortable.

A Few Tips for a Smoother Renovation

• Plan early- lock in your builder, materials, and fittings before work begins.

• Be realistic- some disruption is unavoidable, but a good team will manage it well.

• Keep things running- if your bathroom’s offline, organise alternatives like a portable ensuite ahead of time.

• Ask questions- understanding the process upfront helps avoid surprises.

Need a Hand?

If you're planning a bathroom renovation or need a portable ensuite while the work is underway, we’re here to help.

Kepal Building Services handles bathroom upgrades across regional Victoria- and Enroute Ensuites provides clean, comfortable bathrooms so you can stay put during the job.

Get in touch to discuss your project or request an ensuite hire.