What is the typical price range for a condo bathroom remodel in Burnaby?

A condo bathroom remodel in Burnaby typically costs between $12,000 and $35,000, with the strata approval process and building logistics adding 10–20% compared to a similar renovation in a detached home. The exact price depends heavily on the scope of work, your strata corporation's requirements, and whether you're keeping the existing plumbing layout or reconfiguring it.

For a cosmetic refresh in the $12,000–$18,000 range, you can replace the vanity ($800–$3,000 installed), install new porcelain floor tile ($10–$25 per square foot installed), re-tile the tub or shower surround with proper cement backer board and waterproofing membrane, swap out the toilet ($400–$1,200 installed), update the faucets and showerhead, install new lighting, and paint with mould-resistant semi-gloss paint. The key constraint at this budget level is keeping all fixtures in their current locations — no plumbing rough-in changes.

A mid-range condo remodel in the $18,000–$30,000 range allows for more significant upgrades: a custom tile shower with full Schluter Kerdi waterproofing ($1,500–$4,000 for the waterproofing system), a quality vanity with quartz countertop ($2,000–$5,000 installed), large-format porcelain tile ($12–$30 per square foot installed), frameless glass shower enclosure ($1,500–$4,000), possibly a tub-to-shower conversion ($5,000–$15,000), and upgraded ventilation. At the higher end of this range, you might add electric radiant floor heating ($1,500–$4,000).

Premium condo renovations above $30,000 involve gut demolition, potential plumbing reconfiguration (with strata and engineering approval), natural stone or designer tile, high-end fixtures, heated floors, and custom millwork.

What makes condo renovations in Burnaby more expensive than comparable work in a house comes down to several factors. Strata approval is mandatory — you must submit a detailed renovation plan to your strata council before any work begins. Most Burnaby strata corporations require proof of contractor insurance (minimum $2 million general liability), a current WorkSafeBC clearance letter, a written scope of work, and sometimes an engineering assessment if any structural or plumbing modifications are planned. The approval process can take 2–6 weeks, and starting work without approval can result in fines of $200 per day or more, stop-work orders, and personal liability for damage to common property.

Restricted work hours — typically 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM on weekdays — mean contractors cannot work evenings or weekends, which extends the project timeline. A renovation that might take 8–10 working days in a house can stretch to 12–15 days in a condo. Materials must be moved through lobbies, elevators, and hallways, often requiring elevator booking and floor protection that adds time and cost.

Plumbing and waterproofing carry extra weight in condo renovations because a leak doesn't just damage your unit — it damages the unit below you, and you're liable. Proper waterproofing with Schluter Kerdi membrane or equivalent liquid-applied membrane (RedGard, Hydroban) is absolutely critical. Many Burnaby strata corporations now require waterproofing documentation from the contractor as part of the renovation completion paperwork.

Burnaby's housing stock includes a wide range of condo ages. Older buildings from the 1970s–1990s around Metrotown, Edmonds, and Brentwood may have copper supply lines and cast iron drain stacks that are aging but often still serviceable. Newer towers from 2000 onward typically have PEX supply and ABS drain piping in good condition. Your contractor should inspect the existing plumbing condition during the initial assessment — corroded or deteriorating pipes should be addressed during the renovation while walls are open.

Ventilation is particularly important in Burnaby condos given Metro Vancouver's 75–85% ambient humidity. An exhaust fan rated at minimum 50 CFM (80–110 CFM for larger bathrooms), properly ducted to the exterior, is essential. Many newer buildings have HRV systems that the bathroom exhaust can connect to for more efficient moisture management.

Always get three or more quotes, verify each contractor's WorkSafeBC coverage and insurance, and confirm they have experience with strata renovations — the approval process and building logistics require a contractor who understands the requirements.