Waterproofing Costs and Guidelines for Perth Bathrooms, Kitchens & Laundries [2026]
- Essa
- 10 months ago
- 3 Min Read
Introduction
Waterproofing is a vital step in any bathroom, kitchen, or laundry renovation involving tiling. It creates a protective barrier that prevents moisture from damaging walls, floors, and structures. Without proper waterproofing, stunning tiles can lead to leaks, mold, and costly repairs.
In Western Australia, waterproofing is a legal requirement. Compliance with the Australian Standard AS 3740:2021 – Waterproofing of Domestic Wet Areas is essential for all internal wet areas. Showers, bathroom floors, and walls adjacent to baths or sinks must be waterproofed by a licensed professional before tiling can begin.
Whether you’re renovating a small ensuite or an entire home, understanding waterproofing compliance and costs in Perth is crucial for effective planning and safeguarding your investment against future water issues.
Areas That Require Waterproofing
In Australia, and particularly in Western Australia, waterproofing wet areas is both a building code requirement and a crucial step for long-term protection. According to AS 3740:2021 – Waterproofing of Domestic Wet Areas, certain areas inside a home must be waterproofed to comply with national standards and local council regulations.
Legally Required Waterproofing Areas
Waterproofing is mandatory in the following parts of bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries:
Bathroom and shower floors – must be fully waterproofed.
Shower walls – at least 1,800mm high from the floor level.
Walls adjacent to baths, sinks, and tubs – at least 150mm above the fixture’s lip.
Bathroom walls – at least 150mm above the finished floor level.
Laundry floors – especially where a floor waste or washing machine is installed.
Kitchen splashback areas – around sinks and dishwashing zones where water exposure is frequent.
These requirements ensure that any area exposed to frequent water use is properly sealed, preventing leaks and long-term structural issues.
Insurance and Compliance
It’s also important to note that many home insurance policies may reject claims for water damage if waterproofing was not completed or certified by a licensed waterproofer. Non-compliant waterproofing not only risks costly repairs but can affect your property’s warranty and resale value.
Marble West Tiling is a certified waterproofing and tiling company that follows every step with precision and full compliance with Australian standards, ensuring complete protection and guaranteed workmanship.
Best Practice
Even in areas where waterproofing isn’t legally mandatory — such as powder rooms or small splash zones — it’s still recommended. Adding an extra layer of protection during your renovation helps prevent future issues and saves money in the long run.
Waterproofing Done Right — Certified, Guaranteed, and Built to Last
Marble West Tiling provides professional waterproofing and tiling services that meet Australian Standards. Book your site inspection today and safeguard your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry renovation.
Waterproofing Cost Breakdown – Perth 2026 Rates
Waterproofing prices in Perth can vary depending on the size of the area, level of preparation required, and whether it’s part of a new build or renovation. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $35 and $70 per square metre for professional waterproofing in 2025. This typically includes preparation, priming, membrane application, and certification by a licensed waterproofer.
Below is an overview of average waterproofing costs across different areas:
Bathroom Waterproofing Cost
Small bathroom (4–6 m²): from $500 – $900
Medium to large bathroom (7–12 m²): from $1,000 – $1,800
Full bathroom renovation: including shower recess, walls, and floors may range from $1,200 – $2,200 depending on complexity and finishes.
Laundry Waterproofing Cost
Average laundry (4–6 m²): from $400 – $700
Costs can increase if there are multiple water outlets or floor wastes that require detailed sealing.
Kitchen Waterproofing Cost
Splashback and floor waterproofing: from $300 – $600, depending on the number of surfaces and preparation needed.
While kitchen waterproofing isn’t always mandatory, sealing under tiles and around sinks or dishwashers offers excellent long-term protection, especially in open-plan spaces.
Cost Variations
New builds are usually cheaper per square metre as surfaces are clean and ready for application.
Renovations often cost slightly more due to removal of old tiles, surface repairs, and re-levelling before the membrane can be applied.
Floor-only waterproofing is cheaper, but full wet-area coverage (including walls and corners) provides the best long-term protection and compliance.
Conclusion
Effective waterproofing is essential for any long-lasting bathroom, kitchen, or laundry renovation. By collaborating with certified professionals like Marble West Tiling, you guarantee compliance, enduring protection, and a seamless finish that withstands the test of time.
Perth’s Certified Waterproofing Specialists You Can Rely On
At Marble West Tiling, we combine technical expertise with a commitment to quality and compliance. Our team of certified waterproofers follows Australian Standards (AS 3740:2021) on every project, ensuring your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry is fully protected against leaks and moisture damage. We use premium materials, maintain strict attention to detail, and back every job with a workmanship guarantee.
Whether you’re renovating or building new, Marble West Tiling delivers precision, reliability, and results that last.