Separate cosmetic work from layout changes
Begin with the existing room and desired outcome. Replacing finishes in the same locations is different from moving walls, plumbing fixtures, drains, ventilation, lighting, or electrical devices. Add a measured sketch and label what stays, moves, or is removed. This distinction helps contractors identify design, permit, trade, and inspection questions before they price finishes.
Describe the wet-area system as a complete assembly
For a shower or tub area, ask how demolition, substrate, slopes, waterproofing, penetrations, niches, curbs, drains, tile setting, grout, sealant, and testing responsibilities are handled. Product compatibility matters, so record the proposed system rather than collecting unrelated brand names. Clarify whether hidden damage will be documented and approved as a change before repair.
Coordinate fixtures, ventilation, electrical, and storage
List the tub or shower, valve, trim, toilet, vanity, sink, faucet, mirror, lighting, fan, accessories, cabinetry, counter, and heated-floor plans. Include dimensions, product links, lead times, and who verifies rough-in compatibility. Electrical work in Ontario generally requires the appropriate notification and inspection process; confirm requirements with the Electrical Safety Authority and use properly qualified trades.
- Existing and proposed fixture locations
- Owner-supplied product list and delivery dates
- Ventilation route and fan controls
- Lighting, receptacles, and heated-floor scope
- Storage, blocking, and accessory locations
Confirm permits and condominium approvals
Permit requirements depend on the specific work and municipality. Toronto Building provides examples of work that requires a permit and work that may not, but the project details decide the answer. For condos, also ask management about alteration agreements, drawings, insurance, deposits, elevator booking, water shutoffs, work hours, and common-area protection.
Compare closeout, not only demolition and installation
A complete response should address protection, waste, inspections, product records, waterproofing documentation where available, cleaning, deficiencies, warranties, and final handoff. Ask each applicant to list exclusions and allowances. Keeping the same checklist for every response makes scope differences easier to identify.
Official sources
Requirements can change. Use these primary sources and confirm details for your property and municipality.
Additional planning examples
These external contractor pages illustrate how one provider describes a service scope. They are included for planning context and are not an EZ Clear endorsement.
- Review one bathroom-renovation scope example — compare the listed work with your own layout, products, approvals, and wet-area requirements