Laundry Renovation Costs in South Australia

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The first question is usually: how much will it cost?

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In 2026, a realistic laundry renovation generally costs between $14,400 and $43,200+, with many homeowners in Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, the Barossa and regional South Australia spending approximately $19,800–$32,400.

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Laundry renovations will typically cost around 10% less than kitchen renovations, although the final price depends on the laundry’s size, cabinetry, benchtops, appliances, plumbing, electrical work, access and the condition of the existing space.

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Typical Laundry Renovation Price Ranges

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Essentials Laundry: $14,400–$21,600

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A practical renovation using quality, readily available products may include:

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• Removal of the existing laundry

• Standard cabinetry and laminate benchtops

• Basic handles and hardware

• Laundry trough, sink and tapware

• Appliance installation

• Plumbing and electrical work where required

• Splashback

• Painting and finishing

• Waste removal

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This option suits investment properties, pre-sale renovations and homeowners wanting a modern, functional laundry without premium finishes.

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Plus Laundry: $21,600–$32,400

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This is a popular choice for South Australian owner-occupiers and may include:

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• Better-quality cabinetry

• Stone or premium laminate benchtops

• Soft-close drawers and doors

• Improved storage solutions

• Feature splashbacks

• Quality tapware and laundry sinks

• Integrated or concealed appliances

• Improved lighting

• Tall storage cupboards

• Custom shelving and linen storage

• Pull-out hampers and drying solutions

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It provides a strong balance between appearance, durability and budget.

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Premier Laundry: $32,400–$43,200+

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This level focuses on custom design and premium finishes, including:

• Fully custom cabinetry

• Premium stone or porcelain benchtops

• Feature or waterfall benchtop ends

• Integrated washing machines and dryers

• Custom overhead storage

• Premium hardware

• Designer tapware and sinks

• Built-in ironing or folding areas

• Indoor drying solutions

• Custom lighting

• Structural or layout changes

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Large laundries, luxury homes and renovations involving walls, flooring or major services may exceed this range.

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What Affects the Cost?

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1. Changing the Layout

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Keeping the washing machine, dryer, trough and plumbing in similar positions is one of the best ways to control costs. Moving water, waste, gas or electrical services may require wall, floor or ceiling alterations.

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Major layout changes may add approximately $2,400–$8,000, depending on the complexity of the work.

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2. Cabinetry

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Cabinetry is usually one of the largest parts of the budget. Flat-pack or standard modular cabinetry is more affordable, while custom joinery, tall cupboards, soft-close hardware, pull-out hampers, overhead storage and integrated appliances increase the price.

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3. Benchtops and Splashbacks

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Laminate benchtops are generally the most budget-friendly option. Stone, porcelain, timber and premium surfaces cost more, particularly where the design includes feature edges, cut-outs or extensive cabinetry.

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Splashback costs also vary depending on whether you select tiles, glass, stone or another feature finish.

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4. Appliances, Fixtures and Hardware

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Freestanding washing machines and dryers can help manage costs, while integrated or concealed appliances may increase the budget.

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Allow for:

• Washing machine

• Clothes dryer

• Laundry trough or sink

• Tapware

• Handles and drawer hardware

• Pull-out hampers

• Drying racks

• Ironing or folding systems

• Waste and recycling storage

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5. Hidden Problems

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Older South Australian homes may have outdated wiring, plumbing issues, uneven floors, water damage, mould, asbestos-containing materials or walls that require repair.

A 5–10% contingency is sensible, particularly for older laundries or renovations involving structural changes and water-damaged areas.

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6. Access and Location

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Apartments, upper-floor homes, narrow-access properties and regional locations may cost more due to delivery, removal, protection and project-management requirements.

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Apartment renovations may also require strata or community-title approval.

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What Should Be Included in the Quote?

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A professional laundry renovation quote should clearly identify:

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• Removal and disposal of the old laundry

• Cabinetry and hardware

• Benchtops

• Laundry trough, sink and tapware

• Washing machine and dryer installation

• Plumbing and electrical work

• Lighting and power points

• Splashback

• Flooring or repairs where required

• Ventilation or exhaust-fan work

• Painting and finishing

• Final cleaning and handover

• Workmanship warranty

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Check whether appliances, waste removal, structural repairs, painting, flooring and approval fees are included or excluded. An itemised quote is much easier to compare than a price advertised as “from”.

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Project Timeframes

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A standard laundry renovation generally takes one to three weeks on site, with another four to eight weeks for design, approvals, ordering and material lead times.

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Custom cabinetry, stone benchtops, imported products, structural changes, waterproofing requirements and appliance delays can extend the project.

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Financing and Tax Considerations

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With many South Australian laundry renovations costing between $19,800 and $32,400, homeowners may consider renovation loans, payment plans, home-loan redraw or home-equity lending, subject to eligibility.

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Property investors should speak with a qualified accountant or tax adviser about the potential tax treatment of renovation and depreciation expenses.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the average laundry renovation cost in South Australia?

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A full laundry renovation generally costs approximately $18,000–$32,000. Compact or standard laundries may cost less, while custom and premium projects can exceed $43,000.

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How long does a laundry renovation take?

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Most projects take one to three weeks on site, plus approximately four to eight weeks for design, approvals, ordering and lead times.

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Do I need approval?

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A standard internal laundry renovation may not require major building approval. However, structural changes, wall removal, gas alterations, new windows, waterproofing work or apartment renovations may require additional approvals. Your licensed builder should confirm the requirements before work begins.

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How can I reduce the cost?

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Keep the existing layout, choose standard cabinetry sizes, use locally available products, select practical benchtops and avoid unnecessary structural changes. Keeping existing plumbing and electrical points in place can also help reduce labour costs.

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