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 keep a strong pre-hiring process. By using the steps in this section, you'll be on the right track to picking 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
Next, ask the bathroom company for a portfolio. Some contractors carry physical copies, while others keep 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
You'll ultimately pick a remodeling team based on itemized written estimates. While some contractors offer online estimates, little compares to an in-person consultation. This way, you can discuss your goals, get the necessary measurements taken, and meet the crew. Services and pricing will vary from remodeler to remodeler, so we recommend getting three different itemized estimates for the most effective comparison.
Customer Reviews
Before signing any contracts, always research a bathroom remodeling company's reputation using the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Trustpilot, and Google. As you read about customers' positive and negative experiences, focus on how the company responds to complaints. It's a good sign if the team always tries to reach an amicable and satisfactory resolution.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
See common remodel costs for different projects in the table below: Some more complex projects, like installing 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 Salinas
What is the difference between a bathroom renovation and a bathroom remodel?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
What are the bathroom design trends?
What part of a bathroom remodel should I get done first?
What's the typical time to complete a bathroom remodel?
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