Converting a tub to a walk-in shower is one of the most common bathroom remodels: it frees floor area, improves accessibility, and modernizes a dated bath. What the job involves ranges widely, from a prefab insert dropped into the old tub space to a fully waterproofed, custom-tiled shower. Here is the process, the cost range, and what NYC buildings require.

What does the conversion cost?

Expect a wide band depending on materials and how much plumbing moves. A prefab acrylic or stone-polymer system runs roughly $3,000 to $12,000; a mid-range professional conversion with a new pan, tiled surround, and new fixtures typically $11,000 to $18,000; a high-end custom tile shower with premium finishes and plumbing upgrades $18,000 and up. Treat these as national ballparks: in Manhattan, labor, delivery, and co-op logistics push most jobs toward the higher end, so get an itemized quote.

The process, step by step

1. Site assessment: check the subfloor, drain location, and wall studs. In pre-war units, plaster-and-lath walls and heavy cast-iron tubs shape the whole approach.
2. Choose the system: a prefab insert is faster and cleaner; a built-up tile shower allows custom drains, niches, benches, and tile choices (honed marble, large-format porcelain, zellige).
3. Plumbing: relocate or lower the drain and add a pressure-balancing shower valve for safe, stable temperature. Opening a plumbing chase or moving a riser adds cost.
4. Waterproofing: a tile shower needs cement board or a bonded waterproof membrane; prefab systems come waterproofed.
5. Threshold: decide on a curb or a curbless entry. A barrier-free entry needs careful slope and usually more subfloor work.
6. Finishes: glass door and hardware, showerhead and handheld, niche, bench, then a final clean and punch list.

Permits and building approvals in NYC

Because the conversion changes drainage and fixtures, it usually needs a DOB plumbing permit filed through DOB NOW: Build, and work that opens walls or plumbing chases is commonly filed as an Alteration Type 2. A licensed plumber must do and sign off on the plumbing. On top of DOB, check your co-op or condo rules: most require written board approval and set allowed hours for noisy work. Clear it with your superintendent and managing agent before anything is demolished.

Keep the option to add a tub back?

If resale or multi-generational living matters, ask about convertible systems that can be returned to a tub later, and keep the drain detail accessible. In much of Manhattan, buyers still value at least one full bath with a tub, so if the apartment has only one bathroom, think twice before removing the only tub.

Contractor and timeline

Use a licensed plumber and a general contractor who has done conversions in your building type, pre-war walk-up or post-war high-rise, and ask for references. Prefab installs can be quick, a day or a few; built-up tile jobs run longer because waterproofing and tile need cure time, and you will coordinate deliveries and debris removal with building management.