Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Insure Bathroom Remodeling Estimate Is All-Inclusive

By Chet Lystrom

When hiring someone to perform renovations on your home, they will usually offer an estimate on the cost of materials and labor. Go over the bathroom remodeling estimate with your contractor so you understand exactly what your project estimate includes.

Most estimates will include a cushion just in case unknown repairs come up, but it should also specify how much cost adjustment is allowed and that all changes must be approved by the homeowners.

It's important to get references from previous customers, even if you trust and like your contractor. Contractors know that their future work depends on their current work, so they are more likely to give you a fair 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.

Allowing the contractor to make adjustments to certain aspects of the project up to a certain dollar amount is normal in most remodeling contracts. Adjustments should be made to the overall total cost of the project, not individual phases. This mistake can considerable increase the cost above the initial bathroom remodeling estimate, with the homeowner having little wriggle room to reign in costs.

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. If you choose to change the materials, or material quality used during installation, the originally estimated cost will go up.

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. - 15252

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