Standard problems in bathrooms in blocks of flats
Bathrooms in blocks of flats - especially those made of large slabs - have several recurring problems, including:
- Outdated plumbing - steel and cast iron pipes from the 1970s-90s are often corroded.
- Poor ventilation - no draught in ducts, no air supply under doors.
- Small footprint - usually 2-4 m².
- Curved walls and floors - large differences in levels requiring additional works.
- Common risers - not everything can be moved or rebuilt.
A well-planned renovation solves most of these problems - but only if it follows the right pattern.
Bathroom renovation stages
1. dismantling and preparing the room
The first phase includes:
- dismantling of bathtub, washbasin, toilet,
- chipping of old tiles,
- removal of old buildings and furniture,
- removal of rubble,
- preparing the ground for new installations.
In blocks of flats, it is often necessary to scrape the floor up to the ceiling to replace sewer approaches or lay new waterproofing.
2. plumbing - installation upgrade
Plumbing is a key part of a bathroom refurbishment in a block of flats. Replacements include:
- water pipes (usually on PEX/PP),
- sewage system (PVC Ø50/75),
- approaches for taps, washing machine, toilet rack,
- valves and radiator approaches, if any.
New pipes avoid failures and increase safety, especially in large slab buildings.
3 Electrics - safety and standards
A number of standards apply in the bathroom, including restrictions on the installation of sockets and lighting in wet areas.
The scope of work includes:
- replacement of cables with 3-wire cables,
- Separate circuit for washing machine - unless there is one,
- installation of a differential - unless it exists,
- installation of lighting points,
- preparation of wiring for mirror with lighting.
An electrical system that is too weak is one of the most common causes of overloads and faults.
Waterproofing - a key stage
Waterproofing protects the dwelling (and the neighbours below) from flooding. It should be done:
- liquid film,
- sealing tapes,
- in corners and fitting areas,
- over the entire surface in the shower and around the bathtub.
This is absolutely NOT an element worth saving on.
5. Tiling
Once the substrate has been prepared, the tiler performs:
- levelling the surface - ATTENTION! is carried out before the waterproofing is applied,
- laying of tiles (mostly porcelain stoneware),
- grouting,
- siliconisation.
In blocks of flats, the tiles often require additional levelling work because the walls are sometimes crooked by up to a few centimetres.
6. Installation of fittings and lighting
Finally, it is performed:
- installation of a cabin, bathtub or toilet rack,
- installation of faucets and drains,
- installation of bathroom furniture,
- installation of ceiling and LED lighting
- installation of mirror, accessories and minor finishes.
This is the moment when the bathroom takes on its final look.
How much does it cost to renovate a bathroom in Warsaw (2026)?
Prices depend on the standard, the square metre and the extent of the installation upgrade.
Below are average prices including both labour and basic materials (adhesives, grout, waterproofing, installation components). This avoids the impression that the amounts quoted are just the cost of the contractor's labour.
Labour costs (indicative)
- Dismantling and removal of rubble: PLN 800-1,500
- Plumbing (installation replacement): £2,500-4,500
- Electrics: PLN 1 500 - 3 000
- Waterproofing: PLN 600-1,200
- Tiling: 150-250 PLN/m²
- Installation of fittings: PLN 500-1,500
Material costs (average prices)
- Tiles: £80-250/m² (mid-range)
- Fittings: £500-3,000 per point
- Cab/Bathtub: £1,000-4,000
- WC rack + bowl: PLN 1 000-2 500
- Bathroom furniture: PLN 700-3,000
Average total cost of bathroom refurbishment in Warsaw in 2026:
|
Standard
|
Total cost (labour + materials) assumed bathroom 2-4 m2
|
|
Budget
|
PLN 15,000 - 20,000
|
|
Standard
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PLN 21,000 - 28,000
|
|
Higher, premium
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PLN 30,000 - 45,000
|
Small bathrooms of 2-4 m² are unfortunately proportionally more expensive per m², because most of the fixed costs (plumbing, electrics, dismantling) remain the same.
The most common mistakes when renovating a bathroom
1. lack of waterproofing
This is a most often underestimated problem that ends up..... flooding neighbours and huge costs.
2. bad falls
Poorly executed dips result:
- standing water,
- leaks,
- problems with the linear drain.
3. Overloaded electrical circuits
When the washing machine, dryer, boiler and lighting are on the same circuit - breakdowns are a matter of time.
4. lack of ventilation
Without adequate ventilation:
- fungus appears,
- mirrors evaporate,
- moisture damages furniture and joints.
Sometimes an under-door vent or the installation of a humidity-sensing fan is all that is needed.
Summary
Renovating a bathroom in a block of flats is a complex process that requires precise planning and the right sequence of works. The problems typical of multi-family housing in older blocks of flats - old installations, small space or poor ventilation - make it worth relying on reliable contractors and quality materials.
The most important elements that must not be overlooked are:
- reliable replacement of plumbing and electrics,
- professional waterproofing,
- correct gradients,
- good ventilation,
- a realistic budget including labour and materials.
