Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
A strong pre-hiring process can help you avoid unethical companies or designers who don't share your vision. Follow the steps in this section to help you make your company choice.
Industry Credentials
Begin vetting a company by asking two important questions about its local reputation. First, determine how long it's been operating 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
Massachusetts' contractor licensing requirements are slightly more complex than those in surrounding states. If a bathroom remodel involves structural work, a company must have a Construction Supervisor License from the Office for Public Safety and Inspections. Holders must have at least three years of experience, pass a trade exam, and take continuing education on a regular basis. If no structural work is involved, all that's needed is a Home Improvement Contractor registration with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
Photos
Ask for photos of previous bathroom remodels the company 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 prompt ideas or questions about what upgrades and enhancements the crew could use in your project.
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 a company representative. This way, the crew can view your bathroom and get a sense of your vision, expectations, and goals. 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. As you read about customers' positive and negative experiences, look for how the contractor responds to complaints. It's a green flag if the team continually seeks out 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 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 Chelmsford
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable bathroom remodeling options available?
- eco-friendly floors like cork or bamboo
- low or no-VOC paint
- dual-flush toilets and low-flow faucets to reduce water use
- LED lights to cut power consumption
- products made from recycled wood or plastic
- and greywater systems to filter and reclaim water
Can I stay in my home during the bathroom remodel process, or should I plan to find alternate accommodation?
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