10 Questions to Ask a General Contractor Before a Bathroom Remodel

Hiring the right general contractor is the single biggest factor in a smooth bathroom remodel. Use these 10 practical questions to evaluate contractors and avoid common pitfalls.

Contractor qualifications and verification

1. Are you licensed and insured, and can you provide the license number and insurance certificates?

• Verify a Florida license online and confirm liability and worker coverage. Our license is CGC1536135.

1. Do you have local references and recent project photos I can review?

• Ask for 3 local references and before/after photos that match your project type.

1. Who will be on site, and how do you manage subcontractors?

• Confirm whether the GC uses in-house crews, subcontractors, or a mix, and how quality is controlled.

Project scope, timeline, and cost control

1. Can you provide a detailed, line-item written estimate and a clear payment schedule?

• Look for transparency on materials, labor, permits, and change order procedures.

1. What is the realistic timeline from start to finish, and how do you handle delays?

• Ask about permit timelines, lead times for fixtures, and how they communicate schedule changes.

1. How do you handle unexpected issues found during demolition?

• Ensure the contract includes a contingency plan and that change orders require written approval.

Materials, permits, and warranties

1. Who pulls permits and handles inspections?

• A licensed contractor should manage permits and inspections as part of the service.

1. What brands and material grades do you recommend, and can I source materials myself?

• Discuss options for fixtures, tile, cabinetry, and waterproofing. Clarify who is responsible for defects if you supply materials.

1. What warranties do you offer on workmanship, and what manufacturer warranties apply?

• Get warranty periods in writing, and know who to contact for post-installation issues.

Red flags and next steps

1. What payment methods and dispute resolution steps are in the contract?

• Avoid large upfront payments. Standard practice is a modest deposit, staged payments tied to milestones, and a final payment on completion.

Red flags: vague answers, no license, refusal to provide references, large cash-only deposits, or reluctance to sign a written contract.

If you want help vetting contractors or a free on-site consultation for your bathroom remodel, contact Catalyst Construction and Design. We provide clear estimates, permit management, and references from completed Florida projects.