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 choosing the best company for you.
Industry Credentials
As you discuss your project with bathroom remodelers, ask them how many years of experience they have under their belt. Many remodeling contractors are members of trade associations like the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Professional certifications can also hold professional qualifications that exhibit expertise.
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 done for homeowners. This is primarily so you can examine the caliber of a team's work. However, it could also provide design ideas for your own bathroom renovation or raise questions about what the team can accomplish for your project.
Consultation and Estimate
You'll ultimately pick a remodeling contractor based on itemized estimates. While some contractors offer online estimates, little compares to an in-person consultation. This way, you can meet the crew, get the necessary measurements taken, and discuss your goals. Pricing and services will vary from company to company, so we recommend getting three different itemized estimates for the most effective comparison.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like Trustpilot, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website. While reading about customers' positive and negative experiences, focus on 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. 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 Richmond
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
What leading bathroom design trends should I know about?
What environmentally-friendly options can I consider for my bathroom remodel?
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- low or no-VOC paint
- and LED lights to cut power consumption
If I have a small bathroom, how can I maximize my space and make it feel larger?
- corner showers with glass doors
- vertical cabinets
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- tall and narrow shelves
- and small-scale tile patterns
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