Bathroom Remodel Plumbing: Fixtures, Rough-Ins, and Costs

Intro

Remodeling a bathroom is exciting — and plumbing is often the part that causes the biggest surprises. Whether you’re swapping a sink or moving a drain, the plumbing choices you make early affect cost, schedule, and code compliance.

Burger Plumbing handles emergency plumbing calls and planned remodels. We help homeowners and contractors set realistic expectations, work with local inspection schedules, and keep projects on track.

Problem / Scenario

Most bathroom remodel projects fall into a few common scopes. Each scenario has different plumbing needs and cost impacts.

Typical scopes

• Fixture swap (like replacing a sink, toilet, or tub)
  • Uses existing rough-ins. Minimal plumbing rerouting if you keep locations the same.
• Full layout change (moving toilet, sink, shower, or tub)
  • Requires new drain lines, possible new stack connections, vent changes, and wall/floor openings.
• Tub-to-shower conversion
  • Drain location and trap depth matter. A shallow tub drain may need adjustment for a low-profile shower pan.
• Moving drains (toilet or shower)
  • Often the most expensive plumbing change. May require cutting joists, routing new lines in crawlspace or slab work.

Impact of moving a drain

• Moving a toilet or shower pan horizontally often means opening floors or walls.
• Vertical moves (raising or lowering fixtures) can require cutting into floors or adding pump systems if the drain cannot rely on gravity.
• Sewer line depth, existing vent layout, and foundation type (slab vs. crawlspace) determine difficulty and cost.

What you should plan for:

• If you can keep existing rough-ins in place, you save time and money.
• When moving drains, allow for additional inspection, structural work, and possible contingency for unexpected conditions.

Quick Safety Checklist ⚠️

Before any demo or plumbing work, follow these key safety steps:

• Shut off the water to the work area; locate the main shutoff.
• Turn off electrical circuits in the space if demoing near outlets or lighting.
• If old plumbing may contain lead or lead solder, follow local rules and EPA guidelines for lead-safe work.
• Check for asbestos in vintage tile, flooring, or behind walls; hire a certified abatement team if found.
• Drain and depressurize hot water systems before disconnecting lines; set the water heater off or to vacation mode.
• Use lockout/tagout on major water or gas supplies when contractors are working.
• Protect finished areas with dust barriers and run a HEPA-filter vac during demo to cut dust spread.
• Confirm permit requirements with your local building department before work begins.

Authoritative references that many inspectors and builders use: International Residential Code (IRC), National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) guidelines, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) jobsite safety standards.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Deciding when to DIY and when to hire a licensed plumber can save money and prevent problems.

Good DIY candidates

• Replacing faucets, showerheads, or a toilet with the exact same footprint.
• Installing a new vanity top if existing water supply and drain lines remain unchanged.
• Cosmetic updates: caulking, grout repair, and replacing trim.

Call a pro when:

• You need to move drains or stacks.
• The project involves the water heater, gas lines, or boiler connections.
• You suspect hidden damage (rot, mold, or termite damage) after demo.
• The job requires a permit or inspection.
• You want a reliable rough-in layout and coordination with carpenters and tile setters.
• It’s an emergency: burst pipe, sewer backup, major leak, or if you need Emergency Plumbing near you.

Why hire a licensed plumber:

• They know local code requirements and typical inspection expectations.
• They can size vents and drains properly, maintain slope, and avoid common mistakes that lead to clogs or smells.
• They carry insurance and (at Burger Plumbing) are members of local trade organizations and hold required licenses. We also offer a limited workmanship warranty on qualifying work.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When a professional plumber arrives for a remodel assessment or to begin work, here’s a typical sequence:

1. Jobsite walk-through with homeowner and contractor.
2. Review plans and confirm fixture locations and rough-in measurements (toilet center, sink rough-in height, shower drain position).
3. Locate shutoffs, main water, and sewer cleanouts.
4. Inspect existing framing, subfloor, and below-floor access (crawlspace, basement, or slab).
5. Check venting and existing waste stack layout vs. new design.
6. Determine required slope for drains (typically 1/4" per foot for 3" drain or 1/8" per foot for 4" drains as stated in many plumbing codes; verify with local code).
7. Identify where access panels will be needed for valves, cleanouts, and pump systems.
8. Provide a written scope, estimate, and schedule that accounts for inspections and coordination with other trades (carpentry, electrical, tile).
9. Make temporary shutoff and protective arrangements for the rest of the house if needed.

On rough-in day:

• The plumber lays out waste and vent stacks, roughs in water supply, and sets drain lines with correct slope.
• They install temporary test caps and run pressure/leak tests as required.
• They mark locations for final fixtures so framers and tile crews can finish accurately.

Coordination tip: Schedule rough-in after framing and before insulation and drywall/tile. That gives inspectors clear access.

Prevention & Maintenance

Good planning and maintenance reduce the chance of costly surprises or emergency plumbing calls later.

Maintenance checklist:

• Flush water heaters annually (or as manufacturer suggests) to reduce sediment and extend life.
• Inspect and test sump pumps before rainy seasons.
• Schedule drain cleaning for frequently used kitchen and shower drains.
• Replace old shutoff valves in remodels — many are 30+ years old and can fail.
• Test for leaks after initial occupancy and again after a few months of normal use.
• Consider a leak-detection system for real-time alerts (helps catch slow leaks before they become major failures).

Useful standards and resources: EPA WaterSense recommendations for water-efficient fixtures, IRC chapters on plumbing, and NKBA layout guides for comfortable fixture spacing.

Costs & Time Factors

What affects cost and schedule in a bathroom plumbing remodel? Here are the main drivers and sample budget ranges. These are ranges, not quotes. Local labor rates, materials, and inspection fees will change final numbers.

Major cost drivers

• Moving drains or stacks: Most expensive due to floor/structural work, vent changes, and potential slab work.
• Accessibility: Work in tight spaces or under slabs takes longer and costs more. Crawlspace access is cheaper than breaking a slab.
• Labor vs. materials: Labor is often 50–70% of plumbing cost. Higher-end fixtures raise the total, but the rough-in cost is mostly labor.
• Tile and finish coordination: Tile setters need final fixture locations. Delays in tile work can add to labor staging costs.
• Permit and inspection fees: Vary by jurisdiction. Some areas charge flat fees; others calculate by project valuation.
• Hidden conditions: Rot, mold, or failing drain lines found during demo can add 10–25% to budget.

Sample remodel budgets (general ranges)

• Minor refresh (fixture swap, same rough-ins): $700–$3,000
  • New toilet, faucet, showerhead, and minor valve replacements.
• Mid-range update (some new fixtures, minimal drain moves): $3,500–$12,000
  • New vanity, new tub or shower, possible water supply rerouting.
• Full gut and reconfigure (move fixtures, repipe, new shower/tub): $10,000–$30,000+
  • Includes new drain routing, possible slab work, full repipe in some cases.
• Major sewer or slab work (replace main drain, reroute sewer line): $4,000–$20,000+
  • Excavation, new sewer line, or jackhammering a slab adds cost fast.

Specific examples:

• Moving a toilet 2–3 feet on a wood floor with crawlspace access: $800–$3,000.
• Moving a toilet on a slab foundation: $3,000–$10,000+, depending on slab cutting and re-pouring.
• Installing a new shower drain and pan where no plumbing exists: $1,000–$5,000 depending on access and slope prep.
• Re-piping a small bathroom (supply lines only): $1,200–$4,000 depending on access and materials.

Timeframe expectations:

• Fixture swap (same footprint): 1 day to 2 days.
• Moderate remodel with some rerouting: 3–7 days of plumbing work staged over a few weeks with other trades.
• Full gut and rough-in for a full bathroom: Rough-in 2–5 days, then waiting for inspections, then finish plumbing 1–3 days. Total project often 4–8 weeks depending on tile, drywall, and finishing.

Budgeting tip: Keep a contingency of 10–25% for unknown conditions and coordinate with your general contractor for scheduling buffers.

Timeline and Inspections

Permits and inspections are a crucial part of a compliant bathroom remodel.

Permit basics

• Most jurisdictions require a plumbing permit for moving drains, changing fixture drain sizes, or altering water or gas lines.
• Simple fixture replacements that do not change the rough-in location may not require a permit in some areas, but check local rules first.

Typical inspection sequence

1. Permit issued.
2. Rough-in inspection: After drain, waste, vent, and water supply are roughed in and pressure-tested, but before insulation and drywall. Inspectors check slope, venting, and tests.
3. Final inspection: After fixtures are installed, finish connections are complete, and the space is accessible for a code observer to check final function and compliance.

Timing notes:

• Inspection scheduling varies. Some cities offer same-day or next-day inspections; others have multi-week wait times.
• Some areas allow electronic submission of plans and photos for faster review. Ask your local building department about their process.

Coordination tip:

• Plan the rough-in with tile and framing schedules in mind. If your inspector has a backlog, you may need a temporary schedule change for other trades.

Choosing Fixtures and Fittings

Selecting fixtures early helps plumbers set correct rough-ins and avoid rework.

Measurements to provide

• Toilet rough-in center (distance from finished wall to center of flange). Common sizes: 10", 12", 14".
• Sink drain center and hot/cold supply spacing (typical faucet centers are 4", 8", or widespread).
• Shower/tub drain location and type of shower base (prefab pan vs. custom pan).
• Height preferences for shower valves, vanity faucets, and grab bars for accessibility.

Tips for fixture selection

• Choose fixtures before rough-in whenever possible. This prevents surprises like a tub flange that won’t fit or a shallow drain interfering with a shower pan.
• For accessibility, plan for higher or comfort-height toilets, barrier-free curbless showers, and pressure-balanced shower valves. Early planning avoids costly rework.
• Match rough-in height for wall-hung faucets and cabinets to the chosen vanity; mismatches often require re-routing supply lines.

Quality and warranty:

• Balance cost and durability. Mid-range fixtures often provide long-term value.
• Keep manufacturer specs on hand during rough-in so plumbers can meet the required centerlines and mounting needs.

When It’s an Emergency 🚨

Recognize real emergencies and quick actions to take.

Signs you need emergency plumbing

• Major leak that won’t stop when fixtures are off.
• Burst pipe or rapidly spreading water.
• Sewage backup into tub, shower, or drain.
• No water to the whole house or major hot water failure with obvious leaks.
• Gas smell near a boiler or water heater (call gas company then plumber).

Immediate steps

• Shut off the main water valve if there’s a major leak.
• Turn off electricity if water is pooling near outlets or appliances.
• For sewage backups, avoid using water fixtures and call Emergency Plumbing near you.
• Contain water with buckets or towels and protect valuables.
• Take photos for insurance and to show the plumber what happened.

When you call an emergency plumber, give clear details: location, whether the main is off, any visible sewage, and whether heat or gas is involved. Burger Plumbing responds to emergency plumbing calls and coordinates necessary follow-up repairs and inspections.

FAQ

How much does it typically cost to move a toilet?

Short answer: It depends. On a wood floor with accessible crawlspace, expect roughly $800–$3,000. On a slab, costs can rise to $3,000–$10,000+ because of concrete cutting and possible rerouting to new soil stack locations.

Do I need a permit to move a sink or shower drain?

In most jurisdictions, yes — moving drains, altering the waste stack, or changing fixture locations typically requires a plumbing permit and inspections. Check with your local building department for the exact rule.

How long does a plumbing rough-in take?

For a single bathroom: 1–5 days for a professional crew to complete rough-in work, depending on complexity, access, and whether any unforeseen conditions appear. Time for inspections and other trades can extend the overall schedule.

Can I use the bathroom during a remodel?

Sometimes — but often not. If the remodel involves the only bathroom in the house, plan temporary living arrangements or install temporary systems. Coordinate phased work with your contractor to keep one functional if possible.

Local / Seasonal Considerations

Local building departments and seasons affect timing and methods.

Permit and inspection timing differences

• Urban areas may offer faster inspections but have stricter documentation requirements.
• Smaller jurisdictions might have slower turnaround but more flexible inspection windows.
• Some municipalities require licensed plumbers to sign off on certain types of work.

Seasonal issues

• Winter: Frozen ground can make exterior sewer or excavation work harder and more expensive. Planning large drain moves in warmer months may be more cost-effective.
• Heavy rain seasons: Avoid exterior sewer line work during wet months if possible.
• Peak renovation season: Late spring through early fall often fills contractor schedules; book early.

Local nuance example: Some cities require backflow prevention devices on certain fixtures or water supplies; others do not. Verify with your water utility and local building code.

What to do locally:

• Contact your local building department early for permit checklist and inspection timeline.
• Ask your plumber about common local issues (e.g., older clay sewer lines, known inspection practices). Burger Plumbing works with local inspectors regularly and can often predict common review items.

Practical Planning Checklist (Short)

• Confirm project scope with contractor and plumber.
• Pick fixtures and share manufacturer specs before rough-in.
• Check local permit requirements and apply early.
• Schedule rough-in so inspectors can sign off before insulation/drywall.
• Allow contingency (time and money) for hidden issues.
• Plan for accessibility or aging-in-place needs during design stage.

How Burger Plumbing Works with Contractors and Homeowners

• Early collaboration: We review plans and provide fixture centerline diagrams to framers and tile setters.
• Scheduling: We coordinate rough-in and final plumbing stages with contractors to match inspection windows.
• Documentation: We prepare the paperwork inspectors expect (test results, plans, and as-built notes).
• Trust elements: Our licensed plumbers hold state-required licenses, maintain insurance, and participate in continuing education. We maintain a portfolio of past bathroom remodel photos to show typical outcomes. For qualifying projects, we provide a limited workmanship warranty and clear service terms.

Authoritative references commonly used by building departments and trades: International Residential Code (IRC), National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) planning guides, and EPA WaterSense recommendations.

Closing notes

Bathroom plumbing shapes the outcome of your remodel. Plan early, choose fixtures before rough-in, and think twice before moving drains. Keeping existing rough-ins where practical is one of the best ways to save money and time. Pre-planning for accessibility reduces future costs and improves resale and daily comfort.

If you face an immediate issue — or want help planning a remodel that avoids common plumbing surprises — reach out for timely help.

Call Burger Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  1-877-778-5124 .