In Switzerland, a complete bathroom renovation generally costs between CHF 7,000 and CHF 35,000. The range is wide because the price depends on the canton, the town, the floor area, the condition of the pipework and the fittings chosen. This guide provides you with a rough idea of the costs involved, the stages of the work and the points to check before signing a quote.
How much does a bathroom cost in Switzerland?
The prices below are indicative, for a bathroom measuring 5 to 10 m², including installation. They are intended to help you prepare your budget: only quotes from tradespeople are binding.
| Canton | Simple renovation | Medium-scale renovation | High-end |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geneva | approx. 9,000 CHF | approx. 16,000 CHF | from 26,000 CHF |
| Zurich | approx. 8,000 CHF | approx. 15,000 CHF | from 25,000 CHF |
| Vaud | approx. 7,500 CHF | approx. 14,000 CHF | from 24,000 CHF |
| Bern | approx. 7,000 CHF | approx. 13,500 CHF | from 23,000 CHF |
| Other cantons | approx. 6,500 CHF | approx. 12,000 CHF | from 20,000 CHF |
Source: estimates published by Neho. Other professionals estimate that a complete bathroom renovation in French-speaking Switzerland typically costs between 15,000 and 35,000 CHF (Expert-Zoom), particularly when the pipework needs replacing.
Labour costs by region
Labour accounts for a large proportion of the cost. For a plumber, expect to pay approximately:
- CHF 80 to 120 per hour in more rural cantons (Valais, Jura);
- CHF 120 to 150 per hour in the cantons of Vaud and Fribourg;
- CHF 150 to 180 per hour in Geneva and Zurich.
Materials (pipes, fittings, equipment) are charged separately, as is the call-out fee, which is often between 50 and 80 CHF per visit.
Factors affecting the price
Two bathrooms of the same size can have very different quotes. The main factors are:
- Location: canton, town, and access to the site (floor without a lift, difficult parking).
- The existing condition: old pipes, damp, surfaces requiring repair.
- Relocating water supply points: changing the position of the shower, washbasin or toilet incurs significant additional costs.
- The scope of the work: a simple refurbishment or complete demolition.
- Fixtures and materials: the range of tiles, taps and washbasin units.
- The number of trades involved: plumber, electrician, tiler, painter, and sometimes a joiner.
Keeping the water supply points where they are is often the best way to keep costs down.
The stages of a bathroom renovation
- Define the project: what you want to change, your budget, and the standard of finish.
- Request and compare quotes: at least two or three, for the same scope of work.
- Check for asbestos and any necessary permits if the building was constructed before 1990 or if you have condominium ownership (PPE) or are a tenant.
- Demolition and stripping back: removal of fixtures, tiles and finishes.
- Plumbing and electrical work, followed by waterproofing wet areas.
- Finishing touches: tiling, painting, fitting of fixtures, grouting, followed by a final inspection with the tradesperson.
How long does the work take?
A simple renovation usually takes 2 to 4 weeks. A full renovation involving major alterations can take up to 3 months. You should also allow for the time it takes to book tradespeople and order materials: several weeks may pass between signing the quote and the start of the work.
Whilst the work is being carried out, the bathroom will be out of use. If there is only one bathroom in the property, make alternative arrangements in advance.
Do you need planning permission?
To replace fixtures or retile the bathroom, a permit is not usually required. However, one may be needed for structural alterations or major changes to the plumbing or electrical systems. Check with your municipality before starting.
In a block of flats (condominium ownership (PPE)), shared pipework and load-bearing walls are often the responsibility of the owners’ association: discuss this with the administrator. If you are a tenant, written consent from the landlord or letting agent is essential.
Be aware of asbestos in older buildings
Asbestos has been banned in Switzerland since 1990, but buildings constructed or renovated before that date may contain it, particularly in tile adhesive. It cannot be seen with the naked eye: only a laboratory analysis can confirm its presence.
Before demolishing a bathroom in a building dating from before 1990, have a survey carried out by a specialist in building pollutants. If asbestos is found, its removal must be carried out by a recognised asbestos removal company (Suva).
Choosing the right tradesperson
- Check the company on Zefix, the Swiss commercial register.
- Ask to see their professional indemnity insurance.
- Insist on a detailed quote: items, quantities, materials, VAT (8.1 per cent), deadlines and validity period.
- Compare quotes for the same scope of work: the cheapest quote sometimes omits demolition, waste disposal or waterproofing.
- Ask for photos of similar projects and, if possible, references.
- Set out the schedule and payment terms in writing, without paying a large deposit before work begins.