How to Get Accurate Estimates for Your Bathroom Remodel
Getting estimates isn't just about finding the lowest price—it's about understanding what your project will actually cost, finding a contractor you can trust, and setting realistic expectations. Done right, this step saves you thousands of dollars and months of headaches.
Quick Summary
Time needed
2-3 weeks
Estimates to get
3-5 minimum
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost
Free (most contractors)
Why Getting Multiple Estimates Matters More Than You Think
Many homeowners make the mistake of getting just one or two estimates, or worse—accepting the first number they hear. This approach leaves money on the table and increases the risk of hiring the wrong contractor. Here's why the estimate phase is critical:
Bathroom remodel costs can vary by 50% or more between contractors for the exact same work. Some of this is legitimate (experience, quality, overhead), but some is just pricing strategy. Without comparison, you have no way to know if you're getting a fair deal.
- Price calibration: With 3-5 estimates, you can identify the market rate and spot outliers (both high and suspiciously low).
- Scope clarity: Comparing estimates reveals what different contractors include or exclude, helping you define exactly what you need.
- Contractor vetting: The estimate process itself shows how contractors communicate, their professionalism, and attention to detail.
- Negotiating leverage: Multiple bids give you concrete data to negotiate better terms or price matching.
- Budget accuracy: Averages from multiple estimates help you set a realistic budget with appropriate contingency.
How Many Estimates Do You Really Need?
The magic number is 3-5 estimates. Here's the reasoning behind each threshold:
1-2 Estimates
Not enough data. You can't identify outliers or understand market pricing. You're essentially guessing whether the price is fair.
3-5 Estimates
The sweet spot. Enough to see patterns, identify fair pricing, and spot red flags. Time investment is reasonable.
6+ Estimates
Diminishing returns. Takes too long, delays your project, and can frustrate contractors. Extra data rarely changes the outcome.
Preparing for Contractor Visits
The quality of your estimates depends heavily on how well you prepare. Contractors can only bid accurately on what they understand. Vague projects get vague (and padded) estimates.
Documents to Prepare
- Bathroom measurements (floor plan if possible)
- List of everything you want changed
- Inspiration photos from Pinterest/Houzz
- Material selections (or preferences)
- Timeline requirements or constraints
- Budget range (optional but helpful)
Questions to Have Ready
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you pull permits yourself?
- Who will be on-site daily?
- What's your warranty policy?
- How do you handle change orders?
- Can I see photos of similar projects?
Step-by-Step: Getting and Comparing Estimates
1. Build Your Contractor Shortlist
Start with 5-7 potential contractors. The best sources, in order of reliability:
- 1.Personal referrals from friends, family, or neighbors who've had similar work done
- 2.Neighborhood apps like Nextdoor where you can see real reviews from your area
- 3.Professional associations like NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association)
- 4.Online reviews on Google, Yelp, or Houzz (look for detailed reviews, not just stars)
Initial Screening Checklist
- ✓Valid contractor license (verify online with your state)
- ✓General liability insurance ($1M minimum)
- ✓Workers' compensation insurance
- ✓In business for 3+ years
- ✓Bathroom remodel experience specifically
2. Make Initial Contact
Reach out via phone or email with a brief project description. Professional contractors will respond within 1-2 business days. No response after a week? Move on—that's a preview of their communication style.
Sample Initial Message
"Hi, I'm planning a bathroom remodel in [neighborhood]. The project includes [brief list: new tile, vanity replacement, shower conversion, etc.]. The bathroom is approximately [X] square feet. I'd like to get an estimate and am hoping to start work in [timeframe]. Would you be available for a site visit in the next two weeks?"
3. Schedule and Conduct Site Visits
Schedule visits over 1-2 weeks, spacing them out so you have time to reflect. Plan for 30-60 minutes per visit. Always be home during the visit—this is as much about evaluating the contractor as it is about getting a number.
Good Signs During Visit
- • Takes measurements themselves
- • Asks detailed questions about your needs
- • Points out potential issues proactively
- • Explains different options and trade-offs
- • Arrives on time and is professional
Warning Signs During Visit
- • Rushes through without measuring
- • Gives a price on the spot
- • Pressures you to decide immediately
- • Criticizes other contractors harshly
- • Shows up late without notice
Take notes after each visit while your impressions are fresh. Include both objective details (what they said about the project) and subjective feelings (did you feel comfortable? did they listen?).
4. Review Estimates for Completeness
When estimates arrive (typically 5-10 days after the visit), don't just look at the bottom line. A professional estimate should include all of the following:
What a Complete Estimate Includes
5. Create an Apples-to-Apples Comparison
Comparing estimates is harder than it sounds because contractors format bids differently. Create a spreadsheet with standardized categories:
| Category | Contractor A | Contractor B | Contractor C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition | $___ | $___ | $___ |
| Plumbing labor | $___ | $___ | $___ |
| Electrical labor | $___ | $___ | $___ |
| Tile labor | $___ | $___ | $___ |
| Materials allowance | $___ | $___ | $___ |
| Permits | $___ | $___ | $___ |
| TOTAL | $___ | $___ | $___ |
This process often reveals why prices differ. Contractor A's low bid might not include permits. Contractor B might have a generous tile allowance. Now you can ask informed follow-up questions.
6. Check References Thoroughly
For your top 2-3 contractors, actually call their references. Don't just ask if they were happy—dig deeper with specific questions:
- Did the project finish on budget, or were there many change orders?
- How did they handle unexpected issues that came up?
- Were workers respectful of your home and cleaned up daily?
- Was communication proactive or did you have to chase them?
- Would you hire them again without hesitation?
7. Negotiate and Finalize
Once you've identified your preferred contractor, negotiation is appropriate and expected. But negotiate smart—focus on value, not just slashing the price.
Negotiation Levers Beyond Price
- • Improved payment terms (less upfront, more at completion)
- • Extended warranty coverage
- • Upgraded materials at the same price
- • Inclusion of items that were excluded
- • Priority scheduling or faster timeline
- • Referral discount if you agree to recommend them
Red Flags in Bathroom Remodel Estimates
Learning to spot warning signs can save you from expensive mistakes. Here are the most common red flags that should make you think twice:
Unusually low bid (20%+ below others)
Why it's concerning: Either they don't understand the scope, plan to cut corners, or will hit you with change orders later
What to do: Ask specifically what's included and how they achieve the lower price
No written estimate or vague line items
Why it's concerning: Indicates lack of professionalism and makes dispute resolution difficult
What to do: Request itemized breakdown in writing before proceeding
Demands large upfront payment (>30%)
Why it's concerning: Legitimate contractors don't need your money to buy materials—they have credit
What to do: Counter with 10-20% deposit, milestone payments, and final payment at completion
High-pressure tactics or 'today only' pricing
Why it's concerning: Professional contractors let their work speak for itself; pressure tactics hide problems
What to do: Walk away. Good contractors don't need to pressure you
Can't provide license, insurance, or references
Why it's concerning: May be unlicensed, uninsured, or have a history of disputes
What to do: Verify all credentials independently before signing anything
Verbal promises not reflected in written estimate
Why it's concerning: If it's not in writing, it doesn't exist; verbal agreements are unenforceable
What to do: Get every promise documented in the contract
Pro Tips for Getting Better Estimates
Time your requests strategically
Contractors are typically less busy (and more competitive) in late fall and winter. You may get better pricing and more attention in off-peak seasons.
Be upfront about your budget
Sharing a rough budget range helps contractors tailor their recommendations. They won't all just bid to your max—some will show how to achieve your goals for less.
Ask about their current workload
A contractor who can start immediately might be desperate for work (why?). One who's booked out 4-6 months is probably doing good work.
Get fixture allowances in writing
If the estimate says '$2,000 allowance for vanity,' make sure that's realistic for what you want. Shop fixtures before signing to avoid surprises.
Understand what triggers change orders
Ask: 'What unexpected issues do you commonly find in bathroom remodels?' A good contractor will list things like hidden water damage or outdated plumbing.
Request payment schedule flexibility
Standard is 30% down, 30% at rough-in, 40% at completion. More weighted toward completion protects you. Never pay more than 10% before work starts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing solely based on lowest price
Why it's a problem: The cheapest bid is rarely the best value; it often leads to cost overruns, poor quality, or unfinished work
What to do instead: Focus on value: reasonable price from a reputable contractor with good communication
Not getting enough estimates
Why it's a problem: With only one or two bids, you can't identify outliers or understand fair market pricing
What to do instead: Always get at least three estimates; five is ideal for larger projects
Comparing estimates without standardizing
Why it's a problem: Different contractors include different things, making direct comparison misleading
What to do instead: Create a spreadsheet breaking down each estimate into identical categories
Skipping reference checks
Why it's a problem: Past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior; references reveal the real experience
What to do instead: Call at least 2-3 references for any contractor you're seriously considering
Being vague about what you want
Why it's a problem: Unclear scope leads to inaccurate estimates and change orders later
What to do instead: Provide detailed scope documents, material selections, and inspiration photos to every contractor
Frequently Asked Questions
How many estimates should I get for a bathroom remodel?
Get 3-5 estimates for a bathroom remodel. Fewer than three doesn't give you enough comparison data, while more than five becomes time-consuming without adding much value. Three is the minimum to identify outliers and understand fair market pricing for your project.
What should a bathroom remodel estimate include?
A comprehensive bathroom remodel estimate should include: itemized labor costs by trade, material costs with specifications, permit fees, demolition and disposal costs, timeline with milestones, payment schedule, warranty information, allowances for fixtures and finishes, and a clear scope of work detailing what's included and excluded.
How long should I wait for a contractor estimate?
Most professional contractors provide detailed estimates within 5-10 business days of their site visit. If a contractor takes longer than two weeks without explanation, it may indicate they're too busy or not interested. However, very detailed estimates for complex projects may take longer. Follow up politely after one week if you haven't heard back.
Why do bathroom remodel estimates vary so much?
Estimates vary due to differences in material quality assumptions, labor costs based on experience level, overhead and profit margins, included vs. excluded work, timeline flexibility, and allowance amounts. A contractor bidding $15,000 might include basic materials while a $25,000 bid includes premium fixtures. Always compare what's included, not just the price.
Should I always choose the lowest bathroom remodel estimate?
No. The lowest estimate is rarely the best choice. Unusually low bids often indicate inexperience, cut corners, excluded work, or unrealistic timelines that lead to change orders. Focus on value: a mid-range estimate from a contractor with excellent references, proper licensing, and clear communication is typically the best choice.
Ready for the Next Step?
Once you've gathered and compared your estimates, it's time to build a detailed budget that accounts for all costs, including contingency for unexpected issues.