Can I do my own bathroom demo work to save money?

Yes, homeowners can absolutely do their own bathroom demolition work to save money - it's one of the most straightforward ways to reduce renovation costs, potentially saving $2,000-$5,000 on a typical Ottawa bathroom project.

Demolition is largely about careful removal and disposal, making it perfect for motivated DIYers. You'll be removing tiles, vanities, toilets, and non-load-bearing elements. The key is understanding what you can safely remove yourself versus what requires professional expertise. Most homeowners can handle removing fixtures, tiles, drywall, and flooring without specialized skills.

However, there are critical safety boundaries you must respect in Ontario. Never attempt to remove or modify electrical wiring - all electrical work requires ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) permits and must be done by licensed electricians. Similarly, any plumbing modifications beyond disconnecting existing fixtures should be left to licensed plumbers. If you encounter anything that looks structural (load-bearing walls, beams), stop immediately and consult a professional. Gas lines, if present, require TSSA-licensed technicians.

For Ottawa homeowners, the biggest considerations are disposal and dust control. You'll need a disposal bin (typically $400-$600 for a bathroom demo) and proper dust barriers since most Ottawa homes have forced-air heating that can spread dust throughout the house. Older Ottawa homes (pre-1980) may contain asbestos in tiles or drywall compound, which requires professional abatement - never attempt removal if you suspect asbestos.

Plan for the unexpected during demo work. Ottawa's older housing stock often reveals surprises like outdated wiring, plumbing issues, or water damage that wasn't visible before. Having a contingency budget of 15-20% is wise. Take extensive photos before removing anything - this helps your contractor understand the existing layout and can be valuable if permit applications require "before" documentation.

The smart approach is selective DIY combined with professional oversight. Remove the obvious items like vanities, mirrors, and surface tiles, but have your contractor handle anything involving utilities or structural elements. Many Ottawa contractors, including ourselves, are happy to work with homeowners who want to tackle demo - it keeps project costs down while ensuring safety and code compliance.

For a free consultation on your bathroom renovation project and guidance on what demo work makes sense for your specific situation, contact Justyn Rook Contracting.