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 keep a strong pre-hiring process. By following 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 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 keep running portfolios with photos of completed projects. Request a copy so you can confirm different teams' expertise. Portfolios can also spark design ideas or prompt additional questions.
Consultation and Estimate
You should always seek a written and itemized estimate for your project costs. The estimate should be based on an in-person consultation with the contractor's team. This way, the technicians can view your bathroom and get a sense of your goals, expectations, and vision. To maximize your value, we suggest getting at least three different written estimates 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Google, and Trustpilot. Most contractors have both positive and negative reviews. As you go through each one, pay close attention to how the contractor reacts to dissatisfied customers. A good company will always aim to make things right.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
Some more complex projects, like setting up tankless water heaters or rewiring electrical systems, require subcontracting in many jurisdictions and will increase your overall cost. See standard 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 West Hollywood
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
What leading bathroom design trends should I know about?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
How long does a typical bathroom remodel take from start to finish?
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