Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
Before you sign a contract with a bathroom company, you'll want to ensure they're reliable. We recommend following these steps as you gather estimates.
Industry Credentials
Begin vetting a company by asking two important questions about its local reputation. First, determine how long it's been operating and the quantity of jobs it's completed. Second, find out what industry groups it belongs to, such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). These organizations provide private certifications and ongoing education, which keep crews current with the latest best practices.
Licensure and Insurance
In California, bathroom remodelers need a B-2 Residential Remodeling Contractor license from the California Department of Consumer Affairs. This license covers a variety of different remodeling needs, but it doesn't let contractors modify load-bearing structures. Depending on your needs, a company might need to subcontract some tasks to other crews with different licenses.
Photos
Next, ask the bathroom company for a portfolio. Some contractors carry physical copies, while others keep a running webpage detailing their past projects. Carefully examine each photo to assess the crew's workmanship. You might even find some design ideas for your own bathroom renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
You'll ultimately select a contractor based on detailed written estimates. While some contractors offer online estimates, little compares to an in-person consultation. This way, you can discuss your goals, meet the crew, and get the necessary measurements taken. Pricing and services will differ from remodeler to remodeler, so we recommend getting three different itemized quotes for the most effective comparison.
Customer Reviews
Before signing any contracts, always research a bathroom remodeling company's reputation using the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Trustpilot, and Google. When you read about customers' positive and negative experiences, focus on how the contractor responds to complaints. It's a good sign if the team always tries to reach an amicable and satisfactory resolution.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
Some more complex projects, like installing tankless water heaters or rewiring electrical systems, require subcontracting in many jurisdictions and will increase your overall cost. See common remodel costs for different projects in the table below:
| Type of Bathroom Remodel | Average Cost | Average Time |
|---|---|---|
| Half-bath remodel | $2,000-$5,000 | 5–7 days |
| Full bath remodel | $6,000-$15,000 | 10–14 days |
| Primary bath remodel | $10,000-$30,000 | 15–25 days |
| Wet room installation | $11,000-$18,000 | 10–30 days |
| Luxury bath remodel | $50,000+ | 15–30 days |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Remodeling Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Remodeling in Costa Mesa
What's the difference between a bathroom remodel and a bathroom renovation?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
What environmentally-friendly options can I consider for my bathroom remodel?
- greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- and low or no-VOC paint
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- small-scale tile patterns
- corner showers instead of tubs
- glass shower doors
- pedestal sinks or wall-mounted faucets
- and a large mirror above the sink/vanity
Can I stay in my home during the bathroom remodel process, or should I plan to find alternate accommodation?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
