Resale HDB Bathroom Renovation (2025) – Waterproofing, Overlay & Cost Guide
Bathrooms are the most critical renovation zone in a resale HDB flat.
Unlike painting walls or replacing wardrobes, bathroom works involve
wet areas, waterproofing, plumbing, and tiling—all of which are strictly regulated by HDB.
A poorly done bathroom renovation can cause:
- 🚫 Leaks into your neighbour’s unit below
- 🚫 Persistent dampness and mould
- 🚫 Costly repair and reinstatement by HDB
This is why resale HDB bathroom renovations must be planned carefully,
with the right budget, materials, and HDB-compliant contractors.
💰 How Much Does a Resale HDB Bathroom Renovation Cost in 2025?
On average, renovating one bathroom in a resale HDB costs between S$6,000 – S$12,000.
If you are renovating both bathrooms (common in 4-room or 5-room flats), the total can range from
S$12,000 – S$20,000.
📊 Cost Breakdown (per bathroom):
👉 Always add 10–15% contingency because older resale flats often have hidden leaks or corroded pipes.
🔨 Bathroom Renovation Methods: Overlay vs Full Re-tiling
1️⃣ Tile Overlay
- 🧱 New tiles laid over existing tiles with adhesive
- ✅ Faster (3–5 days), cheaper, less noise
- ❌ Only possible if old tiles are intact (no hollow/cracks)
- 💰 Cost: S$4,000 – S$7,000 per bathroom
2️⃣ Full Re-tiling
- 🪚 Old tiles hacked away, new waterproofing applied
- ✅ Long-lasting, safer, prevents hidden leaks
- ❌ More expensive and noisier
- 💰 Cost: S$6,000 – S$12,000 per bathroom
👉 For resale HDBs older than 15 years, full re-tiling is strongly recommended.
🪵 Bathroom Fixtures & Materials
🧱 Flooring & Wall Tiles
- Ceramic Tiles (S$3–S$5 psf): Affordable, wide variety
- Porcelain Tiles (S$5–S$7 psf): Denser, water-resistant
- Homogeneous Tiles (S$6–S$10 psf): Durable, high-traffic use
- Natural Stone (S$10+ psf): Premium look, requires sealing
🚿 Sanitary Fittings
- Wall-hung WC vs floor-mounted WC
- Water-efficient taps & mixers (PUB-certified)
- Tempered glass shower screens
🪞 Storage Solutions
- Vanity cabinets with moisture-resistant plywood
- Mirror cabinets with concealed storage
- Open shelves with waterproof laminates
⏱️ Bathroom Renovation Timeline (Per Bathroom)
- Day 1–2: Hacking old tiles & removal
- Day 3–4: Waterproofing membrane applied
- Day 5: Ponding test conducted (24 hrs)
- Day 6–8: New tiling works (floor & wall)
- Day 9–10: Plumbing & electrical works
- Day 11–12: Install WC, sink, shower fittings
- Day 13–14: Shower screen, painting, cleaning
⏳ Total Duration: 2–3 weeks per bathroom (depending on complexity).
🏛️ HDB Rules for Bathroom Renovations
Bathroom works are strictly regulated by HDB due to high waterproofing risks.
Before starting, make sure your contractor complies with these rules:
- Approval Required: Hacking & re-tiling need HDB permits.
- Waterproofing: Membrane must be reapplied and tested.
- Ponding Test: Floor filled with water for 24 hours to check leaks.
- Noise Control: Noisy works allowed only Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm.
- New Flats: Units < 3 years old cannot alter bathroom finishes.
✅ Bathroom Renovation Checklist (Resale HDB)
- ✅ Decide on overlay or full re-tiling
- ✅ Select tiles & sanitary fittings
- ✅ Engage an HDB-registered contractor
- ✅ Apply for HDB permit (if hacking/tiling)
- ✅ Ensure waterproofing & ponding test
- ✅ Check plumbing & electrical before sealing tiles
- ✅ Inspect final finishes & collect warranty
📞 Work with SpeedyDecor.com Pte Ltd
Bathroom renovations in resale flats are high-risk if not done properly.
That’s why you should work with SpeedyDecor.com Pte Ltd:
- ✅ HDB-compliant bathroom renovations
- ✅ Experts in waterproofing & tiling
- ✅ End-to-end service: hacking, plumbing, carpentry, glass
- ✅ Transparent pricing, no hidden charges
👉 Call/WhatsApp +65 8839 3899 today for a
free bathroom consultation.
A resale HDB bathroom renovation is not just about looks—it’s about
waterproofing, safety, and compliance. Done right, it prevents costly leaks and
transforms your bathroom into a modern, comfortable space.
👉 Don’t take risks. Partner with SpeedyDecor.com Pte Ltd today.
📱 Call/WhatsApp: +65 8839 3899 for a free consultation.
