Starting a bathroom renovation is exciting but choosing the right contractor can make all the difference between a dream bathroom and a renovation nightmare. Asking the right questions upfront makes sure that everything runs smoothly and avoids issues like unexpected costs, delays, or shoddy workmanship. Think of these questions as your roadmap to a successful renovation, setting clear expectations with your contractor before the job even begins. In this blog post, we’ll cover 10 essential questions you should ask your contractor to make sure you’re on the same page:
1. Do You Have the Appropriate QBCC Licence?
In Queensland, every contractor needs to have a valid Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) licence for work that exceeds $3,300 in value, which includes both materials and labour. This licence is your assurance that the contractor has the necessary qualifications and meets all industry standards for quality, safety, and compliance. It’s a sign of professionalism and ensures your contractor has undergone the required training and certification.
Before signing anything, ask your contractor for their QBCC licence details and verify them through the official QBCC licence search tool. It only takes a few minutes and you’ll get peace of mind knowing that your contractor is legally authorised to work. If they’re reluctant to provide this information or if they can’t supply proof, it’s a major red flag. Hiring an unlicensed contractor puts you at risk of receiving inferior quality workmanship that doesn’t meet necessary building codes.
2. Do You Have Public Liability Insurance?
Accidents can and do happen during renovations, whether it’s accidental damage to your property, an injury on the job, or a mishap involving the contractors themselves. Public liability insurance is there to protect you from any financial burden caused by these unforeseen events. It covers damages to your property or any third parties such as your neighbour if something goes wrong during the renovation.
Before moving forward, ask the contractor for proof of their public liability insurance. It’s important to verify that the coverage is up to date and provides sufficient protection. If something were to go wrong, you don’t want to be stuck paying for unexpected bills. Knowing that your contractor is insured gives you peace of mind that you won’t be left financially responsible if something goes wrong during the project.
3. Do You Handle Permits and Approvals?
If your bathroom renovation is part of an extensive whole house renovation or home extension you might need to get permits or approvals from the Brisbane City Council. This could include things like plumbing upgrades, electrical work, or structural changes to the layout. The process of applying for permits can be complex and overwhelming so if you’re not familiar with local regulations, you could risk delays or fines.
When discussing your bathroom renovation project with a contractor, ask if they will handle the permits and approvals on your behalf. If they’re familiar with council regulations, they can make sure that all required paperwork will be submitted on time and correctly. However, if they’re not experienced with the process, they might ask you to handle it yourself which could delay the project and add unnecessary stress. This is why it’s better to hire a contractor who can take care of the permits since this streamlines the process.
4. How Do You Handle Plumbing, Electrical, or Structural Modifications?
A bathroom renovation often requires specialised work, especially when it comes to plumbing, electrical, or structural changes. These tasks require licensed professionals who can guarantee that everything is up to code and safe for use. Ask the contractor how they handle these aspects and whether they work with trusted plumbers and electricians.
If the contractor is subcontracting the work, ask about the credentials and experience of the subcontractors they use. The last thing you want is for plumbing or electrical work to be done improperly which could lead to fires or safety hazards. Make sure the contractor either has these professionals on staff or works closely with qualified experts.
5. What is the Timeline for Completion?
While it may seem like a simple question, understanding the expected timeline for your renovation is essential. Bathroom renovations can sometimes take longer than expected due to factors like material shortages, or unexpected structural issues that arise once the walls are opened up. For this reason, it’s best to get a clear timeline from the contractor at the start.
Ask the contractor to provide a realistic start and finish date and ask about any factors that might affect the schedule. If they’re vague or don’t factor in potential delays, it’s a sign they may not have a solid plan in place. Having a clear timeline helps you plan ahead and minimises disruptions to your daily life. It also gives you a point of reference for checking the contractor’s progress so you can see whether the job is completed within a reasonable timeframe. If the timeline slips, you’ll want to know exactly why it happened.
6. Can I Make Changes to the Design During the Renovation?
Renovations can spark new ideas and it’s not uncommon to want to change the design as the project progresses. Whether it’s a small tweak or a major redesign, you need to know how flexible your contractor is.
Some contractors may be open to design changes while others may have stricter policies. Before starting the project, clarify how changes will affect the overall cost and timeline. Will there be extra charges for modifications? Will it cause delays? Understanding this beforehand ensures you don’t run into surprises if inspiration strikes during the renovation process.
7. What Happens If Something Unexpected Occurs?
It’s almost impossible that something unexpected will not arise during a renovation. Whether it’s water damage that wasn’t visible before the walls were opened, outdated plumbing, or electric systems that need to be replaced, these issues can lead to increased costs and delays. Ask your contractor how they handle these unforeseen circumstances.
Will they charge for any issues that come up? Is it covered under the original agreement? Understanding whether you’re dealing with a fixed quote or a cost-plus contract is also important. In a fixed quote contract, the price should remain the same regardless of any surprises. On the other hand, a cost-plus contract means you can be charged for any unexpected costs. Knowing how this will be handled in advance can help you plan your budget more effectively and avoid bill shock later on. For advice on how to minimise costs, be sure to read our tips on how to keep costs down.
It’s also important to be aware of your consumer rights during renovations to ensure you’re not caught out. If you’d like to learn more, the ACCC offers detailed information on your rights and guarantees when paying for services like bathroom renovations.
8. What Warranties Do You Offer on Materials and Workmanship?
Renovations can be expensive and you want to make sure you’re protected if something goes wrong. Warranties for both materials and workmanship are your safety net. Materials can sometimes have defects that become apparent after installation and poor workmanship can result in costly repairs down the road.
Ask your contractor what warranties they offer for both materials and the work they perform. The contractor should be able to provide details about the length of the warranty, what it covers, and how you can claim it if there’s a problem. Warranties provide you with confidence that the job will be done right and if anything goes wrong, it will be fixed without any additional cost to you.
9. Will You Provide a Detailed Written Contract?
A detailed written contract is one of the most important documents in the renovation process. This contract should clearly outline every aspect of the project, including the scope of work, materials to be used, estimated costs, the timeline, and a payment schedule. Whether you’re renovating just your bathroom or updating other spaces such as your kitchen or laundry as well, having a clear, written contract ensures that everyone involved knows exactly what to expect. Without a written contract, you leave yourself vulnerable to misunderstandings and potential disputes.
A well-drafted contract protects both you and the contractor. It ensures that everyone is on the same page about expectations and deliverables. If the contractor isn’t willing to put everything in writing, that’s a serious red flag. Make sure the contract is clear and thorough and covers every important detail of the project. This contract serves as a safeguard throughout the renovation process and it’s essential to refer back to it if any issues arise.
10. Can You Provide References or Examples of Past Projects?
One of the best ways to gauge a contractor’s reliability and quality of work is by reviewing their past projects. A reputable contractor will have a portfolio of completed renovations and should be happy to provide references. Ask to see before-and-after photos of their work as well as testimonials from their previous clients. This will give you insights into their craftsmanship and ability to meet deadlines.
You can also take the extra step of contacting their previous clients. While photos provide proof of their craftsmanship, first-hand accounts of how the contractor works are a great way to find out whether they are easy to work with. Ask former clients about their experience, how satisfied they are with their work, and if the project stayed within budget and timeline. Checking references helps you avoid hiring someone who might not live up to your expectations. If a contractor is unwilling or unable to provide references, this should raise a red flag.
Conclusion
Choosing the right contractor for your bathroom renovation is important in ensuring a smooth, successful project. By asking these 10 key questions, you’re setting yourself up for success and avoiding potential pitfalls that could delay or derail the renovation. A good contractor will happily provide clear answers and put everything in writing. If they hesitate or provide vague responses, that’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore. Take your time in choosing the right person for the job. A little effort upfront will save you time, stress, and money in the long run. With these questions in hand, you’re more prepared than ever to make the right choice.
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation and want a contractor who’s upfront, reliable, and happy to answer all your questions, reach out to a team that values quality and transparency. As your reliable bathroom renovation experts in Brisbane, we make the process straightforward and stress-free so you’re confident and informed throughout. Want to start your dream bathroom renovation? Give us a call today on (07) 3130 0301 or leave a message and we’ll get back to you ASAP.
