How to convert bathtub to shower and internal laundry?

Question

Hi Team,

We are looking into removing the bathtub from the small bathroom in our apartment in Sydney and would like to understand whether this is feasible from a plumbing and drainage perspective.

As far as we know, the vanity and toilet cannot be relocated. We are hoping to replace the bathtub with a 90cm shower next to the vanity and install a washing machine alongside it. Could you please advise whether this layout would be possible?

We would also like to know:

* Whether a false wall would be required.
* Whether any external pipework would need to be installed on the outside of the building.
* Whether any additional plumbing or drainage pipes would be required.

The apartment is located on Level 3 (top floor) of an older unit block.

In addition, could you please advise whether we would need a special by-law to remove the bathtub and install a shower and washing machine?

Thank you for your assistance!

Nailbag · Answer

Hi @sarahhhhh,

Being possible physically is one thing, the other which @JacobZ has indicated is firstly up to the strata management to approve. So, that would be my step 1.

With a positive outcome, then step 2 would be to consult with a local plumber if it's physically do-able. My first concern here though would be the requirement for a floor waste in the bathroom floor to comply with regulations around overflow. This may already be installed. If not, then I don't think it will be a do-able project as doubt you will be permitted to trench one in the concrete slab.

If there is one, then things are looking up as the potential to replace the tub with a small shower and washing machine should be able to make it in that same space. Again your plumber will be able to provide options. Though access to the internal right side wall will depend on build materials.

Other than the above, there is nothing I don't believe advice-wise can be offered in this forum. It's simple down to strata approval and do-ablity by your plumber.

Nailbag

Dave-1 · Answer

Good Evening @sarahhhhh

For all the same reasonings that @JacobZ has outlined (I was going through ticking of how I would attempt it) I would be hesitant (In a large way) to change the bathtub over. Consulting with plumbers/sparkies first would be an idea or even checking your strata rules to see if its possible could save a lot of thoughts about is it feasible.

Dave

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @sarahhhhh,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Unfortunately, I am not confident that this is possible for a few reasons, with the main one being the rules around proximity of appliances to showers.

Even if the fixtures will physically fit, you'd need to consider the electrical requirements for the washing machine. Bathrooms are divided into electrical safety zones, and power outlets and appliances are restricted in areas close to showers and other wet fixtures. Depending on the final dimensions and shower enclosure, there may not be sufficient clearance to locate the washing machine and its power outlet outside the relevant wet area zones. I am not aware of a way around this that could be used in this situation, however I am not an electrician, so it is likely worth speaking to one to see if there is some way around this.

The location of the existing plumbing and drainage will be another key factor. Since you're looking to replace the bathtub with a shower and add a washing machine, a plumber will need to assess whether the existing waste and water supply lines can be adapted to suit both fixtures. Depending on their locations, additional pipework may be required and particularly with the drain, this could be tricky depending on what the floor is made of. If it is a suspended concrete slab, which is relatively common in unit blocks, this could mean significant effort to move the waste.

The new shower would also need to be fully enclosed and appropriately waterproofed. Once the bathtub is removed, there is no guarantee that the existing waterproofing system will comply with the requirements for a shower area.

As for strata approval, alterations that are entirely contained within your unit do not typically require a special by-law, however renovation works typically need to be approved to ensure other residents are not affected. In saying this, requirements vary between strata schemes, and because the project will involve plumbing and waterproofing works, I'd recommend checking with your strata manager or committee before proceeding.

As mentioned, I am not confident it is possible in the space, but you would be best to speak with a plumber, electrician and your strata manager to confirm this. There may be a solution, however I imagine it would involve moving more than just the bathtub.

Allow me to tag some knowledgeable members for their thoughts - @Nailbag, @R4addZ, @TedBear, @Dave-1.

Jacob