Questions you need to ask your remodeler
Bathroom remodels are typically the simplest rooms to remodel. Keeping things simple comes down to choosing the right remodeler who knows how to efficiently navigate your city’s permitting department, coordinate material deliveries, and schedule specialist contractors. Here are questions you need to ask the remodeler you're working with:
How long do you need to get permits for my bathroom remodel?
At Home Quality Remodeling, our project managers are able to get non-structural permits in the following time frames:
- San Jose: 3 to 4 weeks
- Sunnyvale: 1 to 2 weeks
- San Mateo: 1 to 2 weeks
- Menlo Park: 1 to 2 weeks
What plans and permits will I need for my bathroom remodeling idea/design?
- If you’re simply updating your current bathroom with a new bathtub/shower, adding a sink or shower head, or adding light fixtures, you’ll need a simple set of over the counter permits. The turnaround time for those are city specific so refer to the list above. If you’re adding a bathroom to the property then this would be considered an addition and you’ll likely need a set of structural plans drawn up by a licensed engineer, then those plans need to be submitted for approval. Due to the backlog of projects, plans submitted for board approval typically takes 4 to 6 months.
Is there a designer you can recommend?
- Choosing the right designer comes down to 2 things; do their designs fit the aesthetic you’re going for and can the designer work alongside your remodeler to bring the design from conception to reality. Find a designer that has an understanding of the limitations your remodeler might face. Working with a designer who has construction experience will yield designs your contractor can quickly begin work on. You don’t want to get caught in the middle of your remodeler and designer trying to revise the designs.
Where can I find material suppliers in Santa Clara for my bathroom remodel?
- Choosing your materials supplier comes down to balancing quality and price. At Home Quality Remodeling, you are assigned a project manager whose job is to find suppliers for you. Material distributors like tile or countertop stores offer their products at a discount to contractors so go through your project manager. They’ll be able to negotiate contractor pricing and pass those savings on to you.
Can you give me a lower price?
- Your remodeler is bound by certain fixed costs like labor cost, disposal fees, and rough materials. If you’re looking for a lower price than what you were initially quoted, ask your project manager to recommend less expensive finish materials and negotiate their profit margin. Each remodeler is in business to make a reasonable profit so understand that it is okay to negotiate price but not to the point where they’re not making enough to take on the project.
How long will my remodel take?
- At Home Quality Remodeling, our standard has been 4 to 6 weeks for bathroom remodels; including the time it takes to get permits.
In conclusion, finding the right remodeler for you bathroom remodeling project typically comes down price, convenience, and quality. You can always find a contractor to offer a lower price but it might come at the cost of lower quality or more hassle. At Home Quality Remodeling, we don't always offer the lowest price but our track record will show that the we've done a great job in delivering high quality construction services and great customer experiences. You can read more about remodeling your bathroom on this page.
