Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor
Before you sign a contract with a bathroom company, you'll want to ensure they're reliable. We recommend following these steps as you collect estimates.
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
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
Ask for photos of previous bathroom remodels the contractor has completed for other homeowners. Looking at these images allows you to confirm the company's experience and closely evaluate the quality of their work. It could also spark ideas or questions about what upgrades and enhancements the crew could incorporate in your renovation.
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 the contractor's team. This way, the team can inspect your bathroom and get a sense of your goals, expectations, and vision. We recommend getting estimates from at least three different contractors so you can compare pricing.
Customer Reviews
Next, research a company's online reputation by going to sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, Google, and Trustpilot. While reading about customers' positive and negative experiences, pay attention to how the contractor 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 setting up 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 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Remodeling Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Remodeling in Maplewood
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?
What's the typical time to complete a bathroom remodel?
What's my return on investment (ROI) for remodeling a bathroom in Maplewood?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
