Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
A strong pre-hiring process can assist in steering clear of unethical companies or designers who don't share your vision. Use the steps in this section to help you determine the best contractor.
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 photos of previous bathroom remodels the team has completed for other homeowners. Reviewing these images lets you confirm the company's experience and closely evaluate the quality of their work. It might also spark ideas or questions about what design elements and improvements the crew could incorporate in your renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
You'll ultimately pick a remodeling contractor based on detailed 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. We recommend getting estimates from at least three different companies so you can compare pricing.
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 go through past customers' experiences, hone in on how the company reacts to negative feedback. A trustworthy remodeler will aim for a satisfactory resolution wherever possible.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
See standard remodel costs for different projects in the table below: Some more complex projects, like mounting 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 South Whittier
What's the difference between a bathroom remodel and a bathroom renovation?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable bathroom remodeling options available?
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
- and low or no-VOC paint
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- glass shower doors
- small-scale tile patterns
- pedestal sinks or wall-mounted faucets
- a large mirror above the sink/vanity
- and corner showers instead of tubs
If I remodel my bathroom in South Whittier, what will my return on investment (ROI) be?
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