
We receive a TON of incoming leads everyday. As a small company, we can’t take on every project that comes in. For this reason, I want to give homeowners some valuable tips on choosing the right contractor for a bathroom remodel. Here are some questions to consider:
1) Do you like them? This may seem like a silly question, but it’s not. You will be spending a decent amount of time with the contractor and their employees. They will be in you home, often times when you are not even there. Liking your contractor is a big factor that is often overlooked. Do they listen to you and value your input? Are they workable?
2) Do they tell you a permit is necessary? When pulling down drywall in bathroom or a tub surround, you need a building permit. Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC permits are also likely required. If they say permits aren’t necessary, this is a HUGE red flag
A building inspector may catch issues that you are unaware of which could save you headaches and costly repairs down the line. Of course permits and inspections increase the upfront cost of a project, but they are required by building code.
3) Will they seal off the construction space from the rest of the home? Will they run an air scrubber during demo and drywall work? Do they protect the floors and other surfaces? Dust can travel throughout the entire home very quickly. It doesn’t take that much extra work to set up these controls, and it will make the process much less intrusive. Finding dust on your toothbrush or silverware is never a happy moment.
4) Are they using a waterproof membrane when installing tile in a wet area (shower or tub surround)? This a very important part of tiling, however it is often overlooked by contractors and is not enforced by inspectors. This layer is key. There are many products available that can serve this purpose.
5) Do they typically order all materials and schedule inspections before the project begins? This can help alleviate the ever so infamous, “this project is taking forever, when will it be over?!” Scheduling is key to having any chance of a project running smoothly.
6) Do they use employees or subcontractors? Are they covered under workers compensation and liability insurance? There are benefits to using employees that I won’t get into here, but in either case you want yourself to be protected in the case of an accident.
7) Do they have good reviews online, as well as real references? This is easy to check and shouldn’t be overlooked. Asking your friends and neighbors is a good place to start when looking for a contractor.
It can be an intimidating process trying to find a stranger to renovate your home. Ask the right questions, talk to your neighbors, and trust your gut. The right contractor for the project is worth waiting for and is worth what they charge. Good luck!!!