How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Bathroom Remodel

So, you’re considering remodelling your bathroom?

Congrats! A remodelling project not only makes your home more enjoyable, it’s also a valuable investment (when done correctly). We’ve all heard the remodelling horror stories; installations that took a lot longer than expected, final invoices that were way higher than the original quote and poor workmanship. Unfortunately, these are all common complaints.

Together, let’s explore some important points worth considering when you’re trying to find the perfect contractor for your bathroom remodelling project.

Let’s start here because this is an important one!

It’s crucial that your chosen contractor has a proven track record of previous work and will still be around to service you in the future, if need be. Don’t simply ASK the contractor whether their business is stable; you need to do your due diligence by acquiring tangible proof of their longevity.

Here are some examples of things you can ask your contractor to provide proof of:

Proof of Establishment

Believe it or not, many contractors use their truck as both an office and a showroom. Ensure your contractor is established with a real office and all the normal business processes in place, such as accounting, production, sales, etc. If your potential contractor doesn’t have an office or showroom, that could be a red flag. Be weary of the “I just use my truck as an office” line.

Supplier Letter

Essentially, this is a written confirmation of your contractor’s relationship with the supplier of the products they install in your home. The letter should show that they have a positive business relationship with the supplier, and as a vendor, they pay their bills on- time. Supplier Letters are easy to obtain; if your contractor says otherwise there may be something they’re hiding.

Business History and License

Make sure your contractor has been operating under the same business name for at least 2 years. Many contractors open and close their businesses numerous times to avoid negative reviews and/or complaints. Of course, you are likely to come across contractors that are genuinely new. In that case, make sure you ask for a work history.

Also, politely ask your contractor to see their business license — this will provide you with peace of mind that they are operating a legitimate business.

Insurance

You must find out whether your contractor holds general liability insurance for both commercial and residential projects. The level of coverage does vary depending on the contractor but you’ll likely see insurance policies range from $500,000 to $1,000,000 of coverage. It’s important to understand that if your contractor’s insurance policies are unable to cover the cost of potential damages or injuries, then your contractor will be liable to personally cover the costs. In the event that your contractor can’t personally cover the cost (which is likely), legal recourse will not be an option and you’ll be required to cover the cost of the damages and/or injuries yourself.

Additionally, make sure your contractor provides workers’ compensation benefits to their staff, otherwise they risk severe government penalties and potential law-suits, should one of their employees get injured while working on your project.

Explore Granite & Quartz LLC will provide insurance information to our clients, if requested. Simply ask to see our Certificate of Insurance!

Remember: do not hire a contractor that does not have adequate or appropriate coverage or you’ll be paying for their potential mistakes.

Past customers can give you exceptional insight into your potential contractor. Reputation is everything in business and there’s no better way to get to know your contractor than by reading what their past customers have to say!

Research customer reviews online or request a list of customer references from your contractor. All reputable contractors should be able to provide you with genuine customer references if you request it. If they are unable to do this, that’s a red flag!

Accolades

If your contractor has been operating for any length of time, they will likely have (at a minimum) received some type of special recognition from an association or trade organization. Any contractor that cannot produce at least some type of recognition may not be worthy of them.

Explore Granite & Quartz LLC is a member of both NKBA and Natural Stone Institute. Both of which are highly reputable trade associations for the kitchen, bath and natural stone industries.

NKBA Member #: 2012413 and Natural Stone Institute #: 5410

Any good contractor doesn’t just have great workmanship, they also provide exceptional customer service. They understand that little things can make a big difference and they have superb attention to detail. Your contractor should show you respect by the way they treat not only you and/or your family, but in the way they treat your home and personal belongings.

Check your potential contractor against these standards of professionalism:

Contracts/Agreements

Believe it or not, many contractors won’t provide you with even a basic invoice or receipt once they’ve completed your remodel. Make sure you receive clear contracts and/or agreements outlining the details of your remodel, along with a quote before the project starts. Additionally, make sure they issue you with an invoice after the job is completed and a receipt after you’ve paid.

No Tricks or High Pressure Sales Tactics

It’s common for unprofessional contractors to use high-pressure sales tactics in an attempt to get you to buy from them, before you’ve had the opportunity to do the necessary research on their company. If you find yourself feeling uncomfortable, or unnecessarily pressured, you need to find a new contractor. Reputable, professional companies don’t use intimidation as a sales tactic.

At the end of the day, your contractor has to be competent in their field. Competence is a result of adequate training and work experience.

Your contractor should be proud, and perhaps excited, to show you photos of their previous work. When you meet with them, ask to see their portfolio. This will act as inspiration for your own remodel and will also give you insight into their past. If your contractor can’t show you any photos of previous work, take it as a sign to change contractors.

Author: Jason Kidwell

Owner/CEO, Explore Granite & Quartz LLC

A: 1660 International Dr, Suite 600, McLean, VA 22102

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