Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
To weed out companies that don't align with your values or which don't have a good local reputation, 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 choosing 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 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
Ask for a copy of the bathroom company's portfolio, which includes pictures from past remodels it's completed for homeowners. This is primarily so you can examine the quality of a team's work. However, it could also provide design ideas for your own bathroom renovation or prompt questions about what the team can do for your project.
Consultation and Estimate
You should always seek a written and itemized estimate for your project costs. The estimate should be based on an in-person consultation with the contractor's team. This way, the crew can view your bathroom and get a sense of your expectations, goals, and vision. We recommend getting estimates from at least three different contractors so you can compare costs.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like Google, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. Most contractors have both positive and negative reviews. As you go through each one, note how the contractor responds to dissatisfied customers. A company of character will always strive to make things right.
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. 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 Murrieta
What is the difference between a bathroom renovation and a bathroom remodel?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
What leading bathroom design trends should I know about?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
If I remodel my bathroom in Murrieta, what will my return on investment (ROI) be?
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