Plan the waterproof room as a complete system.
A bathroom renovation can look complete long before the important work behind the finished surfaces has been checked and documented.
Begin with existing photos, room dimensions, fixture locations, known leaks, ventilation concerns, electrical devices, ceiling height, and condo or building constraints. State whether the layout stays in place or moves; that decision changes the coordination required.
1. Write the fixture and layout plan
- Confirm the bath or shower, toilet, vanity, sink, faucet, niche, glass, mirror, accessories, door swing, and storage locations.
- Record each selected fixture’s model number, rough-in requirement, finish, lead time, and supplier.
- Identify plumbing, drain, wall, floor, or ventilation moves for early review.
- Decide the tile limits, pattern, grout, trim profiles, paint, transitions, and any heated-floor detail before ordering quantities.
2. Make the preparation plan visible
Ask how existing finishes are removed, substrates are assessed, slopes and transitions are formed, wet-area assemblies are prepared, penetrations are handled, and the work is protected before tiling. The goal is not a particular brand or method; it is a clear, compatible system that is installed and documented as specified for the project.
3. Coordinate plumbing, ventilation, and electrical work
Confirm shutoff access, fixture rough-ins, drain locations, exhaust route, fan controls, lighting, receptacles, switches, and any heated-floor or other electrical scope. A Licensed Electrical Contractor should coordinate electrical work in Ontario; retain applicable ESA documentation at closeout. Confirm municipal and condominium requirements for the actual proposed work.
4. Plan the occupied-site details
In a condo or occupied home, water shutoffs, elevator bookings, work hours, protection, daily cleanup, delivery route, dust control, parking, and a temporary bathroom plan can be as important as the finish selections. Write who will arrange each item and when it must be confirmed.
5. Verify before closeout
Use a final checklist for fixture operation, drainage, grout and caulking, tile edges, glass, paint, fan operation, accessories, cleanup, touch-ups, care instructions, warranty information, and project photos. Keep documents and product information together for future repair or replacement.
Continue with the bathroom cost guide, scope-of-work checklist, and condo pre-construction checklist.
Official reference points
For Ontario electrical work and records, consult the Electrical Safety Authority’s notification and inspection guidance. Check municipal requirements with the responsible authority, and condo requirements with the building’s current documents. This guide is planning information, not a code, inspection, or engineering opinion.