Bathroom Renos: The In's and Out's of Making Them Successful

• Contactor Qualifications
• Sub-Tradespersons
• Written Quotation

The value of homes across Canada has increased considerably over the past 10 years; therefore, it makes sense to invest in upgrades such as a bathroom renovation that is ‘built to last’. So what issues should homeowners consider when planning a renovation and selecting a firm to do the work?

Is the Contractor Qualified?

Homeowners should always look at the qualifications of interested contractors.

• Is the contractor a bathroom specialist or does he or she offer a variety of renovation services?
• Always ask general contractors about how many bathrooms they have renovated over the past few years.
•  It's usually better to hire a ‘specialist’ who focuses specifically on bathroom renovations. Just as a patient would go to a medical specialist for a specific problem, homeowners should try to find a professional that focuses solely on bathrooms.

Bathroom renovators are more familiar with the problems that are almost always encountered when renovating a bathroom. Different types of plumbing, framing, and electrical wiring will require someone who is well-trained and familiar with different approaches to such challenges. On many occasions, a renovator will find old lead pipes or drains that require that ‘special touch’ to handle it properly. Many general contractors do not have the expertise of a bathroom renovation specialist and are often ill-equipped to deal with older homes.

Sub-Tradespersons

• Homeowners must consider whether the renovation contractor uses sub-tradespersons who are licensed – an important factor if homeowners want to avoid shoddy or unsafe work.
• This is also particularly important when hiring an electrician or plumber as many contractors will use their own unlicensed staff to do both types of work. Unqualified electricians and plumbers often don’t have the proper training and therefore, might not know how to safely or properly get the work done.
• In cases where unqualified professionals are used, the work is often not inspected which often leaves the homeowner without any recourse.
• On that note, always ask contractors if they have commercial liability insurance coverage. Don’t be afraid to ask the contractor to show you their policy. Without liability coverage, homeowners are left without protection if damage occurs while work is underway.

Contractor's Written Quotation

• Check to see if the contractor’s written quotation – an absolute must for any renovation – clearly specifies the scope of the renovation (what exactly is being done).
• Is the quote written in clear and concise language?
• Is it easy-to-understand what work the contract covers? Building trades are often known for using technical jargon (both in conversation and in quotations), so homeowners should make sure to know what work is outlined in the contract.
• Any firm that is unwilling to provide a written and detailed quote is not reputable and should be avoided.
• Verbal quotes and quotes written on a scrap of paper or napkin for a substantial renovation such as a bathroom remodel are simply not acceptable in today’s market. The more comprehensive and detailed the quote, the less potential there is for misunderstandings and stress.
• Another important factor for homeowners to consider is the type of material a contractor will use for a bathroom renovation and if such details are listed clearly in the contract. There are great disparities in the cost of different materials used that can significantly alter the overall quality and durability of a bathroom renovation.

Again, homeowners should always remember to get a detailed quote that outlines every aspect of the renovation process, including the materials used.

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