7 Tips for Choosing the Best Bathroom Remodel Contractor in 2024
Picking the right bathroom remodeling contractor can be a real headache. You either get someone who doesn’t quite understand what you want, or worse, you end up with delays, extra costs, and problems you didn’t see coming.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially when you’re putting so much time and money into a project. You might think you know what you want, but finding a contractor who can actually pull it off? That’s where it gets tricky. The wrong pick can turn your dream bathroom into a big ol’ mess.
But it doesn’t have to be like that. Check out these seven tips to help you find a contractor who’ll make the whole process smoother and get you the bathroom you’ve been dreaming of.
1. Be Clear About Your Vision (And Don’t Be Afraid to Change It Mid-Project)
One of the best things you can do is have a solid idea of what you want your bathroom to look like—but don’t lock yourself into it too tightly. Things might look different once the demolition starts. Be open to suggestions from your contractor, especially if they’ve got experience with layouts, fixtures, and space planning. Sometimes, what seems like a great idea in your head just doesn’t work in reality. A good contractor will help you refine your vision, and that’s a key reason why choosing one who’s willing to collaborate is so important.
2. Go for a Contractor Who Knows Their Way Around Plumbing and Waterproofing
Plumbing and waterproofing are at the heart of any bathroom remodel, so you need a contractor who specializes in these areas. Even if they’re skilled in tiling or cabinetry, if they don’t have a solid knowledge of plumbing and proper moisture control, you could be setting yourself up for leaks, water damage, or mold down the line.
Ask your contractor about their experience with these critical elements and ensure they’ve got a plan for handling the tricky parts. Trust us—taking extra time to vet their plumbing expertise will pay off in the long run.
3. Take the Time to Understand Their Project Timeline
Get a clear idea of how long your bathroom remodel is going to take, but also be realistic. Even the most reliable contractors can run into unexpected problems. What’s important here is setting expectations.
A good contractor will give you a rough timeline at first and then update you if something changes, so you’re never left in the dark. Ask about how often you’ll get updates, and what you should expect at every stage. Knowing when things will be done—and when they’re likely to shift—helps you stay sane during the process.
4. Trust a Contractor Who’s Not Afraid to Ask Questions
The best contractors aren’t just good at executing your vision—they’re good at asking the right questions, too. If a contractor only listens to your ideas without probing for details, they may not be as thorough as you want them to be. Good contractors ask questions about your daily routine, your budget flexibility, your long-term goals, and even your pain points. If they’re actively learning about your needs and priorities, it’s a sign they’re invested in getting the job right. It’s also an indicator that they’ll help you avoid problems down the road by catching things before they become issues.
5. Don’t Let the Price Alone Decide
It’s tempting to go with the cheapest bid, but don’t fall into that trap. Remodeling your home is an investment, and cutting corners can cost you big time in the long run.
Instead, focus on value: what are you getting for the price? You want a contractor who’s offering you a fair price for high-quality work and materials, not just someone who’s offering the lowest number. Make sure you’re comfortable with the balance between cost and quality. A cheap remodel that falls apart in a few years is more expensive than a well-done job you can enjoy for a long time.
6. Make Sure the Contractor Handles All the Permits for You
You don’t want to deal with the red tape of getting permits for your remodel—that’s the contractor’s job. A great contractor will handle all the required permits themselves, so you don’t have to worry about getting everything approved. Not only does this save you time, but it also ensures your remodel meets code and avoids problems with future home inspections or selling the house. Don’t be afraid to ask if they’ll be the ones to secure the permits before work starts.
7. Get Everything in Writing (And Pay Attention to the Details)
A contractor may sound great in conversation, but make sure everything is put down in writing before work begins. The contract should be specific, with clear pricing, timelines, and a detailed scope of work that outlines exactly what’s included and what isn’t. Don’t skip over this step—get into the nitty-gritty of the contract and ask questions about anything that’s unclear. A solid contract helps protect both you and the contractor, and it’ll save you a lot of confusion or disputes if something goes wrong during the project.
Ready to start your bathroom remodel project?
Tango Home Services is a contractor that you can trust, giving expert craftsmanship with exceptional service every step of the way. Call us now for an estimate.