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 follow a strong pre-hiring process. By using the steps in this section, you'll be on the right track to selecting 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
Request for photos of previous bathroom remodels the contractor has completed for other homeowners. Looking at these images lets you verify the company's experience and closely evaluate the quality of their work. It might also spark ideas or questions about what upgrades and enhancements the crew could use in your renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
You'll ultimately hire a remodeling contractor based on itemized written estimates. While some contractors offer online estimates, little compares to an in-person consultation. This way, you can get the necessary measurements taken, discuss your goals, and meet the crew. We recommend getting estimates from at least three different companies so you can compare costs.
Customer Reviews
Before signing any contracts, always research a bathroom remodeling company's reputation using Trustpilot, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. When examining past customers' experiences, hone in on how the company responds to negative feedback. Reputable remodelers will aim for a satisfactory resolution wherever possible.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
See common remodel costs for different projects in the table below: The average cost of a bathroom remodel in Oakland ranges from $18,199 to $34,579, 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 Oakland
How is a bathroom renovation different from a bathroom remodel?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable bathroom remodeling options available?
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- low or no-VOC paint
- greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- and eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
Can I stay in my home during the bathroom remodel process, or should I plan to find alternate accommodation?
If I remodel my bathroom in Oakland, what will my return on investment (ROI) be?
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