Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
Before you hire a bathroom remodeler, you'll want to ensure they're trustworthy. We recommend following these steps as you get estimates.
Industry Credentials
Begin vetting a company by asking two important questions about its local reputation. First, determine how long it's been operating 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 have physical copies, while others maintain a running webpage detailing their past projects. Carefully examine each photo to assess the quality of the crew's work. You might even uncover some design ideas for your own bathroom renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
Thorough written estimates are essential in the decision-making process. A growing number of companies are offering virtual consultations, but we highly recommend beginning with an in-home visit. This way, the team can evaluate your bathroom firsthand and get precise measurements. Pricing and services will vary from company to company, so we recommend getting three different itemized estimates for the most effective comparison.
Customer Reviews
Before you hire a bathroom remodel, check its online reputation using sites like Google, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, and Trustpilot. As 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?
See standard remodel costs for different projects in the table below: 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 Los Banos
What's the difference between a bathroom renovation and a bathroom remodel?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable bathroom remodeling options available?
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- low or no-VOC paint
- greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- and products made from recycled wood or plastic
Can I stay in my home during the bathroom remodel process, or should I plan to find alternate accommodation?
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