Top Questions to Ask Before a Twin Cities Bathroom Renovation

Bathroom renovations can add comfort and long-term value to your home in the Twin Cities. However, you will only get the most out of the project if you choose the right contractor and plan the project carefully.

Before jumping into the details of the bathroom project, you need to ask the right questions. Doing so will help you avoid unexpected costs and give you the confidence that you are making the best decision for your Twin Cities home.

Trying to decide if a bathroom renovation is right for you? Seeking an experienced and professional contractor to handle your remodel? If your answer to either of these questions is yes, keep reading. We provide the most important questions to ask and what responses to look for.

What Questions to Ask Yourself

The first step of any remodeling project is to look inward. Before you start buying tile or tearing out existing features, take a moment to think through the basics of your renovation. Ask yourself the following questions.

1. Why am I remodeling? First, and most importantly, ask yourself why you are planning a bathroom remodel in the first place. Is your bathroom outdated, too small, lacking in storage, or something else? Are you seeking a spa-like retreat, or do you need to incorporate ADA accessibility upgrades to accommodate an elderly family member? Clarifying your “why “at the beginning of the project will help shape every decision you make.
2. What is my budget? Twin Cities homeowners tend to add long-term value to their homes with bathroom upgrades. However, full remodels can be costly. You will likely spend between $20,000 and $80,000, or more, on the project. Therefore, decide on a realistic budget and include an additional 10-15% cushion for unexpected expenses. Then start saving.
3. What’s the scope of the project? Perhaps you don’t have the budget for a full bathroom remodel so that you will stick to cosmetic updates. Or perhaps the room needs a complete layout overhaul. The scope of your project will determine its costs, timeline, and the permits required.
4. How long can I live without the bathroom? Most large bathroom remodeling projects can take 3-6 weeks, depending on their complexity. Ensure your household can manage without the bathroom for that length of time.
5. What features are “must-haves” versus “nice-to-haves”? Create a list of the features and upgrades you would like to add to your bathroom, prioritizing them in order of importance. This list will help you make decisions if you need to cut costs along the way.
6. Should I plan for accessibility? Homeowners planning bathroom renovations in the Twin Cities do not necessarily have to include ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features. However, doing so will make the bathroom safer and more functional for every stage of life. If you have room in your budget, consider adding features such as grab bars and zero-threshold showers now to save money in the future.

What Questions to Ask a Potential Contractor

Once you have defined your goals and answered the questions above, it is time to vet contractors for the project. Choosing the right professional could make or break your bathroom renovation. You need to find a company that will adhere to your budget and complete the job correctly the first time. As you vet your list of possibilities, ask the following questions.

1. Are you licensed and insured? Most importantly, any contractor you hire should be licensed to work in Minnesota and carry liability insurance. These items protect you in the event of accidents or damage that may occur during the project.
2. Can you provide references? The contractor should have experience successfully completing bathroom renovations like yours. Request before-and-after photos of past projects or a list of past clients to contact for reference. You may also decide to look up online reviews of the company.
3. What’s included in the estimate? The contractor should provide a detailed, written estimate that breaks down the labor, materials, permits, and potential additional costs required for the project. Do not hire contractors that provide vague quotes, as they may lead to surprise or hidden expenses later.
4. Will you handle permits and inspections? Most bathroom renovations in the Twin Cities require permits and must be inspected, especially when electrical, plumbing, or structural changes are made. A reputable contractor will handle all aspects of this process on your behalf.
5. How do you manage communication? There are numerous moving parts involved in a bathroom renovation. You will want to be updated and included in all important decisions. Ensure you understand how the contractor prefers to communicate and who you can expect to be your primary point of contact for the project.
6. Who will be working in my home? Will the same crew be on-site at your home daily, or will the work be subcontracted? Knowing who will be in your home will give you some peace of mind and ensure everyone understands expectations ahead of time.
7. What happens in the case of an unexpected delay or issue? Unfortunately, we live in the era of supply chain issues and other delays. Ensure you understand how the contractor plans to address these issues and what impact they will have on your project’s timeline.

A bathroom renovation is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your Twin Cities home, but only if it is planned carefully. By asking yourself the right questions and thoroughly vetting your contractor, you will avoid stress and stay on budget.

At SMC Construction, Inc., we take pride in providing expert bathroom renovations to Minneapolis and St. Paul. From modern updates to accessibility upgrades, we are here to help you create a bathroom that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Request a consultation today and begin your renovation journey with confidence.