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 follow 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
Ask each company about the number of years it's been remodeling bathrooms and how many projects it's completed. You should also find out 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
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 might also spark ideas or questions about what design elements and improvements 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 technicians can see your bathroom and get a sense of your goals, vision, and expectations. Pricing and services will vary from remodeler to remodeler, 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. Many contractors have both positive and negative reviews. While examining each one, note how the contractor addresses complaints from dissatisfied customers. Reputable contractors will always strive to make things right.
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 Maplewood
How is a bathroom renovation different from a bathroom remodel?
How long does it take to redo a bathroom?
Do remodeling companies offer preset packages for smaller-scale jobs?
How long does a typical bathroom remodel take from start to finish?
What's my return on investment (ROI) for remodeling a bathroom in Maplewood?
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