Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
A strong pre-hiring process can assist in steering clear of unscrupulous companies or designers who don't share your vision. Follow the steps in this section to help you make your company choice.
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 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
Request a copy of the bathroom company's portfolio, which includes pictures from past remodels it's done for homeowners. This is primarily so you can examine the quality of a team's work. However, it could also spark inspiration for your own bathroom renovation or generate questions about what the team can accomplish for your project.
Consultation and Estimate
Detailed written estimates are essential in the decision-making process. A growing number of remodelers are offering fully-online consultations, but we highly recommend beginning with an in-home visit. This way, the crew can see your bathroom firsthand and get precise measurements. To maximize your value, we suggest getting at least three different quotes and comparing them head-to-head to find the best deal.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Trustpilot, and Google. Most companies have both positive and negative reviews. While examining each one, follow how the contractor responds to dissatisfied customers. A good company will always strive to make things right.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
See typical remodel costs for different projects in the table below: Some more complex projects, like mounting 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 Highland
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
What environmentally-friendly options can I consider for my bathroom remodel?
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- low or no-VOC paint
- and greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
Can I stay in my home during the bathroom remodel process, or should I plan to find alternate accommodation?
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