Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
Before you sign a contract with a bathroom company, you'll want to ensure they're reputable. We recommend following these steps as you gather estimates.
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 how many projects 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
Most bathroom contractors maintain running portfolios with photos of completed projects. Request a copy so you can verify different teams' expertise. Portfolios can also spark design ideas or raise additional questions.
Consultation and Estimate
Itemized written estimates are most important in the decision-making process. A growing number of contractors are offering virtual consultations, but we highly recommend beginning with an in-home visit. This way, the team can evaluate your bathroom firsthand and get precise measurements. To maximize your value, we suggest getting at least three different quotes and comparing them head-to-head to find the best deal.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, and Google. Many contractors have both positive and negative reviews. As you go through each one, pay close attention to how the contractor responds to dissatisfied customers. A good company 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 average 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 Tustin
How is a bathroom renovation different from a bathroom remodel?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
What's the typical time to complete a bathroom remodel?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.