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Tips for successful bathroom renovations
05/08/2009 - By Joe Beninato
Tips for successful bathroom renovations

Many people are wary when it comes to having a complete bathroom renovation done in their homes. If you follow these simple guidelines, it could turn a potential nightmare into a success story...

Start with a realistic budget for your project. Discuss with your renovation consultant in detail to make sure that your budget matches your expectations.
Hire a bathroom renovation specialist. Bathroom renovations are specialized work; you do not want to hire a jack of all trades and a master of none. It is wise to ask for three references. One should always be for a project that the company is currently working on. Another should be a project that was just completed in the past month or so, and finally ask for a reference for a job that was completed a year or so ago.
Confirm the renovator has worker’s compensation insurance. Renovators should carry at least $2 million in liability insurance. Don’t be shy; ask to see their certificates. You do not want to be responsible if they get hurt on your jobsite.
Read the fine print. Go over the contract carefully and watch for anything allowing for ‘unforseens’ .You want to look for companies that don’t charge for unexpected extras
Work from a single point of contact. Make sure the company you hire to do the renovations has a showroom where you can see real bathroom displays. If you work with a big box outlet and their contractor, you become the middleman between the two companies, not a good position. With one contact, you won’t ping pong between a contractor and a retail outlet.
Compare apples to apples. When you are looking for an estimate, make sure that you choose your product and colour selection at the showroom. This will help you get a true picture of what your costs will be.
Insist on warranties. Be sure to get a 5 year installation warranty (not to be mistaken for the manufacturer’s warranty) and that you have on-site project management to ensure a smooth installation process.