Questions to Ask a Contractor When Refurbishing a Bathroom

Licensing

• Before forming contracts, ask contractors about their qualifications, including proof of licensing. Not all contracting companies are large enough to maintain their own electrical and plumbing staff. So it may be necessary to check the qualifications of subcontractors as well. The Relocation.com website recommends double-checking licensing with the local licensing and building-inspection agency.

  Licensing allows contractors and subs to obtain the building permits necessary before a bathroom job can begin. Permits are necessary not only for general construction but also for plumbing and electrical work. Lack of permits may lead to shoddy workmanship, fines and removal of portions of construction so building inspectors can verify the quality of plumbing, electrical and structural work.

References

• Ask how long a contractor has been in business. Contractors who have done a number of bathroom remodels should be able to provide references from previous clients. A well-established builder who has a record of satisfactorily completing bathroom projects is more likely to get the job done on time and on budget.

Proof of Insurance

• Clients should never let a construction project begin before seeing a contractor's proof of insurance for workers' compensation and for liability regarding construction materials and errors. The contractor's insurance should protect homeowners against claims by injured workers and remediate costly problems with faulty construction or defective materials.

Costs and Schedules

• At the outset of a project, homeowners should ask the contractor to specify all costs in a written contract. This document should also contain a schedule for project completion and negotiated payment dates and amounts. Paying for work as it is completed encourages the contractor to maintain the project pace stated in the contract. It is wise to withhold the last payment until the project is complete and passes inspection by the local building-inspection agency. Keep in mind your comfort when setting the completion schedule. While it may be possible to do without the bathroom shower for a week, access to the toilet may need to be ensured during construction.

Dispute Resolution and Warranty

• Finally, the written contract should contain a clause stating how project disputes will be resolved during construction to avoid work stoppages. Relocation.com says that homeowners should also request a "waiver of lien" clause to avoid the possibility having a lien placed on the property if they miss a payment to the contractor. If the contractor warranties the project materials and labor for a specific period of time, this should also be documented.