Sauna and bathroom renovation: ask these before you start

The bathroom or sauna is the most critical room in the house: water, heat and moisture meet. That is why it pays to be more careful in a wet-room renovation than in other jobs.

1. First find out what is really needed

Is it a surface renovation (tiles, painting) or a full renewal of the room (waterproofing, pipes, floor drain)? A surface renovation is quicker and cheaper, but if the structures have moisture damage it is not enough alone. Ask the provider to check the situation before pricing.

2. Waterproofing decides

Good waterproofing prevents damage that is expensive to repair. Ask:

• Does the provider have a qualification or certificate for waterproofing wet rooms?
• Are the work stages documented with photos?
• Will you get a work report on the waterproofing after the job?

The documents matter if damage occurs or if you sell the home later.

3. Permits and qualifications

Electrical work may only be done by authorised electrical professionals, and plumbing is best done by a professional too. If an electric sauna heater is installed, connecting it is electrical work. Ask the provider to say who does what.

4. The housing company

If you live in a housing company, a wet-room renovation usually has to be reported to the property manager before it starts. Check the housing company's instructions and any limits on working hours.

5. Schedule and a backup plan

A wet-room renovation takes time because the waterproofing and the screed have to dry. Ask for a realistic schedule and plan where you will wash in the meantime. Also agree what happens if a surprise turns up during the renovation.

6. Comparing prices

Compare what the quote includes: demolition, waste, waterproofing, tiles, fittings, electrical work and final cleaning. Tiles and fittings may be bought either by the provider or by you.

7. The sauna separately

In a sauna renovation the benches, the moisture protection of the panelling, the ventilation and the heater's safety distances matter. Ask the provider about experience with similar saunas.

Next step

Describe your space and your wishes, attach photos and request a quote. Compare at least two.