Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
It's crucial to have an effective pre-hiring process before signing any contract. This way, you can confirm a contractor is trustworthy, consistent, and well-respected in the Gardena community. Start with the following criteria and tweak them as necessary for your needs.
Industry Credentials
Begin vetting a company by asking two important questions about its local reputation. First, determine how long it's been in business and how many projects 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
Most bathroom contractors maintain running portfolios with pictures of completed remodels. Request a copy so you can check different teams' expertise. Portfolios can also provide design ideas or prompt additional questions.
Consultation and Estimate
You'll ultimately hire a remodeling contractor based on detailed written estimates. While some contractors offer online estimates, little compares to an in-person consultation. This way, you can meet the crew, get the necessary measurements taken, and discuss your goals. Services and pricing will vary from remodeler to remodeler, so we recommend getting three different written estimates for the most effective comparison.
Customer Reviews
Before signing any contracts, always research a bathroom remodeling company's reputation using Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, 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 setting up tankless water heaters or rewiring electrical systems, require subcontracting in many jurisdictions and will increase your overall cost. See average 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 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Remodeling in Gardena
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- corner showers with glass doors
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- vertical cabinets
- tall and narrow shelves
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- and small-scale tile patterns
Can I stay in my home during the bathroom remodel process, or should I plan to find alternate accommodation?
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