Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
It's crucial to have a strong pre-hiring process before signing any contract. This way, you can confirm a contractor is ethical, dependable, and well-respected in the DeKalb community. Start with the following criteria and tweak them as necessary for your needs.
Industry Credentials
Begin vetting a company by asking two important questions about its local reputation. First, determine how long it's been operating 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
While the Illinois state government licenses trades like plumbing, residential remodelers in the Land of Lincoln don't need a license. Different cities and counties can control their own requirements, so we recommend speaking with the DeKalb city hall for more information.
Photos
Ask for photos of previous bathroom remodels the company has completed for other homeowners. Looking at these images allows you to confirm the company's experience and closely evaluate the quality of their work. It could also spark ideas or questions about what upgrades and enhancements the crew could use in your renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
You should always seek an itemized estimate for your project costs. The estimate should be based on an in-person consultation with the contractor's team. This way, the team can inspect your bathroom and get a sense of your expectations, vision, and goals. Pricing and services will vary from company to company, 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, Google, and Trustpilot. As you read about customers' positive and negative experiences, pay attention to how a company responds to complaints. It's a good sign if the team continually seeks out an amicable and satisfactory resolution.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
Some more complex projects, like mounting 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 DeKalb
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- small-scale tile patterns
- corner showers with glass doors
- vertical cabinets
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- and tall and narrow shelves
Do I have to leave my home during the remodeling process?
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