Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
It's crucial to have a robust pre-hiring process before signing any contract. This way, you can confirm a company is trustworthy, reliable, and well-respected in the West Haven community. Start with the following criteria and tweak them as necessary for your needs.
Industry Credentials
Ask each contractor about how long it's been remodeling bathrooms and how many projects it's finished. You should also ask what trade group memberships the team has. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is just one organization offering continuing education programs and certificates for remodeling professionals.
Licensure and Insurance
In Connecticut, residential remodelers must be registered with the state's Department of Consumer Protection. Registration shows that a company carries at least the minimum insurance coverage required by law. The state licenses plumbers, pipefitters, and electricians separately, so your remodeling company might need to subcontract at least some work.
Photos
Next, ask the bathroom company for a portfolio. Some contractors have physical copies, while others design a running webpage detailing their past projects. Carefully examine each photo to assess the crew's workmanship. You might even find some design ideas for your own bathroom renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
Detailed written estimates are essential in the decision-making process. A growing number of companies are offering fully-online consultations, but we highly recommend beginning with an in-home visit. This way, the team can inspect your bathroom firsthand and get the correct measurements. Pricing and services will differ from contractor to contractor, so we recommend getting three different itemized estimates for the most effective comparison.
Customer Reviews
Before you hire a bathroom remodel, check its online reputation using sites like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, and Google. When you read about customers' positive and negative experiences, pay attention to how the contractor 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?
See standard 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 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Remodeling Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Remodeling in West Haven
What is the difference between a bathroom renovation and a bathroom remodel?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
Can I customize my bathroom design, or do remodel companies offer pre-set packages?
What environmentally-friendly options can I consider for my bathroom remodel?
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- and low or no-VOC paint
If I have a small bathroom, how can I maximize my space and make it feel larger?
- corner showers with glass doors
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- tall and narrow shelves
- vertical cabinets
- and small-scale tile patterns
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
