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 maintain a strong pre-hiring process. By using the steps in this section, you'll be on the right track to picking 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 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
Michigan bathroom remodelers must have either a Residential Builder or Residential Maintenance & Alteration Contractor license from the state's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Both licenses require extensive preparatory coursework, a trade exam, and a background check.
Photos
Most bathroom contractors keep running portfolios with photos of completed remodels. Request a copy so you can check different teams' expertise. Portfolios can also spark design ideas or prompt additional questions.
Consultation and Estimate
Thorough written estimates are essential in the company selection process. A growing number of businesses are offering remote consultations, but we highly recommend beginning with an in-home visit. This way, the technicians can evaluate your bathroom firsthand and get accurate measurements. To maximize your value, we suggest getting at least three different cost breakdowns and comparing them side by side to find the best deal.
Customer Reviews
Before signing any contracts, always research a bathroom remodeling company's reputation using Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, and Google. When 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 always strives for an amicable and satisfactory resolution.
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 common 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 Grand Rapids
What's the difference between a bathroom remodel and a bathroom renovation?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
What part of a bathroom remodel is the most expensive?
What's the first step in the remodeling process?
Can I customize my bathroom design, or do remodel companies offer pre-set packages?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
