Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
A strong pre-hiring process can assist in steering clear of dishonest companies or designers who don't share your vision. Use the steps in this section to help you determine the best contractor.
Industry Credentials
Ask each contractor about the number of years it's been remodeling bathrooms and the number of projects it's accomplished. You should also ask what trade group memberships the team has. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is just one organization offering continuing education programs and certificates for remodeling professionals.
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 print physical copies, while others design a running webpage detailing their past projects. Carefully examine each photo to assess the quality of the crew's work. You might even discover some design ideas for your own bathroom renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
You should always seek a comprehensive written estimate for your project costs. The estimate should be based on an in-person consultation with the contractor's team. This way, the team can inspect your bathroom and get a sense of your vision, expectations, and goals. We recommend getting estimates from at least three different local businesses so you can compare costs.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, and Google. Most companies have both positive and negative reviews. As you read each one, follow how the contractor addresses complaints from dissatisfied customers. A good company will always work to make things right.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
The average price to remodel a bathroom in El Centro ranges from $15,687 to $29,805, depending on the project's scope and type. Some more complex projects, like setting up tankless water heaters or rewiring electrical systems, require subcontracting in many jurisdictions and will increase your overall cost.
| 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 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Remodeling in El Centro
How is a bathroom renovation different from a bathroom remodel?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
What environmentally-friendly options can I consider for my bathroom remodel?
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- low or no-VOC paint
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- and greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- vertical cabinets
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- corner showers with glass doors
- tall and narrow shelves
- and small-scale tile patterns
What's the typical time to complete a bathroom remodel?
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