Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
A strong pre-hiring process can assist in steering clear of unethical companies or designers who don't share your vision. Apply 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
Next, ask the bathroom company for a portfolio. Some contractors carry physical copies, while others keep a running webpage detailing their past projects. Thoroughly evaluate each photo to assess the crew's workmanship. You might even uncover some design ideas for your own bathroom renovation.
Consultation and Estimate
Itemized written estimates are most important in the company selection process. A growing number of remodeling 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 the proper measurements. Pricing and services will differ from remodeler to remodeler, so we recommend getting three different written estimates for the most effective comparison.
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, focus on how a company responds to complaints. It's a good sign if the team always tries to reach an amicable and satisfactory resolution.
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?
The average cost of a bathroom remodel in St. Paul ranges from $18,249 to $34,674, depending on the project's scope and type. 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 St. Paul
How is a bathroom remodel different from a bathroom renovation?
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
What's the first step in the remodeling process?
Can I customize my bathroom design, or do remodel companies offer pre-set packages?
How can I make the most of limited space in a small bathroom during a remodel?
- small-scale tile patterns
- a larger mirror above the sink/vanity
- tall and narrow shelves
- corner showers with glass doors
- pedestal sinks/wall-mounted faucets
- and vertical cabinets
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
