Sunday, January 18, 2009

Insure Bathroom Remodeling Estimate Is All-Inclusive

By Chet Lystrom

When you are looking to hire a professional to do a home remodeling project, it is important to get an estimate of the materials and labor. When you get the bathroom remodeling estimate, especially for a bathroom project, make sure you know exactly what is in the price.

In most cases a bathroom remodeling estimate will include a margin of error, but there should also be a section that covers how much of a price adjustment will be allowed by the homeowner or if all changes and additional charges will require the customer's approval and signature.

It's important to get references from previous customers, even if you trust and like your contractor. Contractors with a history of overcharging are not going to come as highly recommended as those who provide a realistic bathroom remodeling estimate. However, you want to be wary of an extremely low estimate, because the contractor may be counting on increasing the costs as he works on the project.

Making small adjustments as a contractor completes a project is normal and should be expected. However, make sure that amount applies to the total cost of the job and not on individual phases. Making adjustments on each piece of the bathroom remodeling project can considerably increase the cost of the project.

Must Have Exact Specifications For the Contract

Your bathroom remodeling project estimate should definitely include all the materials the contractor expects to use. The materials list should include specific dimensions and style. For example, if you are having a granite counter top installed, the dimensions and thickness should be listed.

Being as specific as you can ensures that you will get the bathroom that you are picturing. During installation if you insist on a thinker piece, the estimate will increase based on the customer's demand for a change.

Understanding what model or brand of fixtures will be used in your new bathroom will ensure that you get the quality you want. It may not be necessary to specify the source for the items, but if there is reason to believe the contractor will buy factory seconds or used merchandise, you want to get another contractor instead of a bathroom remodeling estimate. Taking the time to go through the estimate with a fine tooth comb will ensure that you get what you are expecting out of your bathroom remodel. - 16463

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