Accessible Bathroom Renovations in Cowichan Valley
Duncan, Lake Cowichan, Mill Bay. Bathroom accessibility for rural properties and older homes. RAHA covers up to $20,000.
Find Bathroom ContractorsBathroom accessibility modifications in Cowichan Valley typically cost $6,000-$20,000. The region's older farmhouses and rural properties often have unique plumbing considerations. RAHA covers up to $20,000 for eligible homeowners with home values under $824,999.
$824,999
Home value limit for Cowichan Valley
BC Housing 2026
$6,000–$12,000
Barrier-free shower conversion
Industry average
$8,000–$15,000
Walk-in tub installed
Industry average
3–5 days
Typical bathroom conversion timeline
Industry average
The Context
Bathrooms in older valley homes
Cowichan Valley has some of Vancouver Island's oldest housing stock—farmhouses from the early 1900s with original plumbing and compact bathrooms. These homes often need more than just fixture swaps: cast iron drains may need updating, subfloors may need reinforcement, and bathroom sizes may limit options. Contractors who serve the valley know these challenges.
Why This Matters
Older home expertise
Our contractors understand valley farmhouses—old plumbing, narrow doorways, and compact bathrooms.
Rural property service
Contractors who actually serve Lake Cowichan, Shawnigan Lake, and Cobble Hill—not just Duncan.
Septic system awareness
Rural properties often have septic systems. Bathroom mods need to consider load and drainage.
Same $824,999 threshold
Lower than Victoria's limit, making more Cowichan homes RAHA-eligible.
Services & Pricing
What you can get done
Barrier-free showers
RAHACurbless design. May require subfloor work in older homes for proper drainage.
$6,000–$12,000
Walk-in tubs
RAHARequires adequate space and floor support. Older homes may need structural assessment.
$8,000–$15,000
Grab bars
RAHAAnchored into old-growth fir studs (common in valley farmhouses). Proper anchoring essential.
$150–$400 per bar
Plumbing updates
RAHACast iron to PVC conversion when relocating fixtures. Often needed in pre-1970 homes.
$1,000–$3,000
Local Knowledge
Valley-specific bathroom challenges
Cowichan Valley's older homes often have cast iron drains that need updating when you relocate fixtures—add $1,000-$2,000 to the job. Rural properties on septic need to consider system capacity. And properties near Cowichan Lake may have seasonal access issues for contractors. Make sure your contractor knows the valley before they quote.
Common Questions
FAQ
Do contractors serve Lake Cowichan for bathroom renovations?
Yes, several contractors in our directory serve Lake Cowichan and the western valley. Some charge travel fees for properties more than 30 minutes from Duncan—ask upfront.
What about old plumbing in farmhouses?
Pre-1970 homes often have cast iron drains. When relocating fixtures for a barrier-free shower or walk-in tub, cast iron may need replacement with PVC—typically $1,000-$2,000 extra. Good contractors assess this during the quote.
Are bathroom mods on septic systems RAHA-eligible?
Yes. Bathroom modifications are eligible regardless of your drainage system. However, contractors should assess whether your septic can handle any changes to water usage or fixture placement.
Get bathroom accessibility quotes
Cowichan Valley contractors who understand older homes and rural properties.
Find Bathroom Contractors