Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
To weed out businesses that aren't ethical or don't have positive community feedback, it's important to maintain a strong pre-hiring process. By following the steps in this section, you'll be on the right track to choosing the best company for you.
Industry Credentials
Ask each company about the number of years it's been in business and the number of projects it's finished. You should also find out 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
Ask for photos of previous bathroom remodels the contractor has completed for other homeowners. Reviewing these images lets you verify the company's experience and closely evaluate the quality of their work. It might also prompt ideas or questions about what design elements and improvements the crew could include in your project.
Consultation and Estimate
You should always seek an itemized 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 see your bathroom and get a sense of your goals, expectations, and vision. We recommend getting estimates from at least three different local businesses so you can compare pricing.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, and Google. When you read about customers' positive and negative experiences, look for how a company responds to complaints. It's a green flag 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. The average cost of a bathroom remodel in Long Beach ranges from $17,257 to $32,789, depending on the project's scope and type.
| 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 Long Beach
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
What part of a bathroom remodel is the most expensive?
What environmentally-friendly options can I consider for my bathroom remodel?
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
- low or no-VOC paint
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- and dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
How long does a typical bathroom remodel take from start to finish?
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