Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
A strong pre-hiring process can aid in sidestepping unscrupulous companies or designers who don't share your vision. Follow the steps in this section to help you determine the best contractor.
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
Minnesota's licensing requirements for residential remodelers are a bit more complex than those in other states. The Department of Labor and Industry requires contractors practicing more than one "special skill" to get either a Residential Building Contractor or Residential Remodeler license. Special skills include disciplines like flooring, painting, and window and door installation, and a comprehensive list is on the department's website. If a company only practices one special skill or makes less than $15,000 per year, it doesn't need a license, but it must still apply for a Certificate of Exemption.
Photos
Request for photos of previous bathroom remodels the company has completed for other homeowners. Looking at these images allows you to verify the company's experience and closely evaluate the quality of their work. It could also prompt ideas or questions about what design elements and improvements the crew could include in your project.
Consultation and Estimate
Thorough written estimates are most important in the company selection process. A growing number of companies are offering fully-online consultations, but we highly recommend beginning with an in-home visit. This way, the technicians can see your bathroom firsthand and get accurate measurements. Services and pricing will vary from contractor to contractor, so we recommend getting three different itemized estimates for the most effective comparison.
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 go through past customers' experiences, focus on how the company reacts to negative feedback. Reputable contractors will aim for a satisfactory resolution wherever possible.
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 typical 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 Cottage Grove
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
What are the bathroom design trends?
If I have a small bathroom, how can I maximize my space and make it feel larger?
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- corner showers with glass doors
- small-scale tile patterns
- tall and narrow shelves
- and vertical cabinets
If I remodel my bathroom in Cottage Grove, what will my return on investment (ROI) be?
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