Can I convert my tub/shower combo to a walk-in shower without moving the plumbing?

Yes — a tub-to-shower conversion using the existing plumbing locations is one of the most common bathroom renovation projects in the GTA, and it's the most cost-effective way to get a modern walk-in shower. By keeping the drain and supply lines in their current positions, you avoid the expense of relocating plumbing, which saves $1,000–$3,000 compared to a layout change.

The existing tub drain becomes your shower drain, and the existing shower valve (mixing valve) in the wall stays in place or gets replaced with a new valve in the same location. The supply lines, vent stack connection, and drain tie-in all remain untouched. What changes is the shower base, the wall surround, and typically the fixtures and glass enclosure.

What the Project Involves

The tub is removed and the alcove is converted to a shower. Your contractor will remove the tub, address any damaged subfloor or wall substrate behind it (common in Toronto homes where the original tub has been in place for 20–40 years), install a new shower base or build a tiled shower floor, install cement board and waterproof membrane on the walls, tile the walls and floor, install new fixtures and glass, and complete trim work. The existing drain location dictates where the shower drain sits — typically near one end of the former tub alcove.

In a standard 60-inch tub alcove (the most common size in GTA homes built from the 1950s through 1990s), you end up with a generous 5-foot walk-in shower — plenty of room for a comfortable shower experience with a rain showerhead, a tiled niche, and even a small bench seat.

Cost in the GTA

A tub-to-shower conversion using existing plumbing runs $5,000–$12,000 in the Greater Toronto Area, depending on the level of finish:

• Budget (acrylic base and surround panels): $3,000–$5,000. Quick installation, functional, but limited design options.
• Mid-range (tiled shower with porcelain tile, shower niche, glass door): $6,000–$10,000. This is the sweet spot for most GTA homeowners — custom tile, proper waterproofing, quality fixtures, and frameless or semi-frameless glass.
• High-end (large-format porcelain, curbless entry, linear drain, premium glass): $10,000–$15,000+. A curbless conversion is more complex because the floor needs to be modified for a single-direction slope, but it can often still use the existing drain location.

What Might Force Plumbing Changes

There are situations where you may need some plumbing modifications even in a "same-location" conversion. If the existing shower valve is old or doesn't meet current Ontario Building Code requirements for anti-scald protection (thermostatic or pressure-balance), it should be replaced. A new pressure-balance valve in the same wall location costs $300–$800 installed — it uses the existing supply lines but provides the code-required scald protection. If you're upgrading to a rain showerhead mounted higher than the existing showerhead arm, the plumber may need to extend the arm or add a ceiling-mount connection, which is a minor modification.

If you want to move the drain to a different position (for example, from the end of the alcove to a linear drain along the back wall), that does require drain relocation — a more significant plumbing change that adds cost.

Permits and Code

A straight tub-to-shower conversion using existing plumbing locations may not require a building permit from the City of Toronto, since you're not adding, moving, or modifying plumbing connections. However, if you're replacing the shower valve, adding a GFCI outlet, or installing a new exhaust fan circuit, those electrical changes require an electrical permit and ESA inspection. Your contractor should clarify permit requirements during the quoting process. When in doubt, pulling a permit is always the safer choice — it protects you at resale and ensures the work is inspected.

Remember to keep at least one bathtub in the home if possible — GTA real estate professionals consistently advise that having at least one tub supports resale value, particularly for family buyers. If this is your only bathroom, consider whether a shower-only layout suits your needs and your future resale plans.

Need help finding a professional bathroom renovator? Toronto Bath Remodeling can match you for free through the Toronto Construction Network.