Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
To weed out contractors that go against your principles or lack local credibility, it's important to keep a strong pre-hiring process. By following the steps in this section, you'll be on the right track to picking the best company for you.
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
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 crew's workmanship. You might even discover some design ideas for your own bathroom renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
Itemized written estimates are essential in the decision-making process. A growing number of remodeling companies are offering remote consultations, but we highly recommend beginning with an in-home visit. This way, the technicians can inspect your bathroom firsthand and get the proper measurements. Pricing and services will vary from contractor to contractor, 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 Google, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. While reading about customers' positive and negative experiences, look for how the contractor responds to complaints. It's a green flag if the team continually seeks out an amicable and satisfactory resolution.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
The average cost of a bathroom remodel in Irvine ranges from $17,508 to $33,264, depending on the project's scope and type. 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 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Remodeling in Irvine
What's the difference between a bathroom renovation and a bathroom remodel?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?
What's the first step in the remodeling process?
Can I stay in my home during the bathroom remodel process, or should I plan to find alternate accommodation?
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