Feasible for experienced DIYers with a strong understanding of building codes and access to proper tools. Professional contractors are recommended for complex plumbing or electrical reconfigurations. All work must be permitted and inspected by your local building department.
A bathroom remodel involves multiple trades (plumbing, electrical, structural, finishes) requiring adherence to IRC, NEC, and Illinois Plumbing Code. Specialized knowledge for proper rough-in, ventilation, and waterproofing is crucial for compliance and longevity, especially given DuPage County climate considerations.
Project Guidelines & Rules
General Requirements & Permits
2 Rules
Permit Application and Plan Submission
Your local municipality building department requirements; 2024 IRC R105.1, R106.1
Required Inspections (e.g., rough-in, final)
2024 IRC R109.1; Your local municipality building department procedures
Structural & Demolition
3 Rules
Load-Bearing Wall Alterations
2024 IRC R502.2, R602.6 (Requires engineered plans for significant changes)
Floor Joist Modification and Notching/Boring
2024 IRC R502.8, R502.8.1, R502.8.2
Minimum Ceiling Height
2024 IRC R305.1 (Minimum 7 feet, except for projections)
Plumbing Systems (Illinois Plumbing Code)
10 Rules
Water Supply Piping (Materials, sizing, protection)
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.1310, 890.410, 890.1320
Drainage, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Piping (Materials, sizing, slope)
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.1500, 890.1510, 890.1530, 890.1540
Fixture Requirements (Water closets, lavatories, showers/tubs)
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.620, 890.710, 890.720
Trap Protection & Venting (Proper S-traps, P-traps, venting methods)
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.1500, 890.1530
Water Heater Installation (if applicable, including TPR valve, pan, and discharge)
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.1210, 890.1220; 2024 IRC M1305.1
Backflow Prevention (e.g., for handheld shower heads, hose bibs)
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.1140
Shower Pan/Receptor Construction & Waterproofing
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.720; 2024 IRC P2709
Minimum Clearances for Water Closet
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.620 Table A; 2024 IRC P2705.1
Access Openings for Concealed Plumbing
Illinois Plumbing Code Part 890.230
Frost Depth for Exterior Plumbing Connections (e.g., water service, building sewer)
DuPage County Standard: 42 inches below finished grade
Electrical Systems (2023 NEC)
5 Rules
AFCI/GFCI Protection for Circuits
2023 NEC 210.8(A)(1) (GFCI for bathroom receptacles), 210.12 (AFCI for dwelling units)
Receptacle Outlets (Location, quantity, dedicated circuit)
2023 NEC 210.52(D) (At least one receptacle within 3 ft of basin edge); 2023 NEC 210.11(C)(3) (Dedicated 20-ampere branch circuit)
Lighting Outlets and Switching
2023 NEC 210.70(A)(1); 404.2
Wiring Methods & Materials
2023 NEC Chapter 3 (e.g., 300.4 Protection Against Physical Damage, 310.15 Ampacities)
Equipment Grounding and Bonding
2023 NEC 250.4, 250.104
Mechanical & Ventilation
2 Rules
Bathroom Exhaust Fan Requirements
2024 IRC M1507.4 (Minimum 50 cfm continuous or 100 cfm intermittent, exhausted to exterior)
Ductwork Material & Installation for Ventilation
2024 IRC M1601.1, M1507.3 (Smooth interior, insulated in unconditioned spaces)
Finishes & Safety
4 Rules
Glazing in Hazardous Locations (e.g., shower and tub enclosures)
2024 IRC R308.4, R308.4.2, R308.4.5 (Requires safety glazing)
Wall Finishes in Wet Areas (Moisture resistance)
2024 IRC R702.4 (Water-resistant gypsum backing board), R702.4.2 (Tile backer board in wet areas)
Blocking for Future Grab Bar Installation (around tubs/showers)
2024 IRC R307.2
Stairways and Handrails (if applicable for multi-level bathrooms)
2024 IRC R311.7 (Handrail requirements)
