Bathroom professionals are the most common major remodeling contractors within the larger home improvement industry. Likewise, bathroom remodels are still wildly popular, despite the new realities of the housing market. According to data collected by ServiceMagic from homeowners across the country, no home improvement project has the same level of popularity and cost.

The average bathroom remodeling project costs about $10,000, although if you plan to tear down the walls and start from scratch, $15,000 is more likely for even a budget-oriented remodeling plan. With these high financial stakes, not to mention the fate of your morning routine, you need to stay diligent when choosing your contractor. Answers to some basic questions will give you a sense of whether or not you could work comfortably with a particular bathroom professional. Below are some questions to ask:

Questions about the Bathroom Professional
How long have you been a bathroom professional?
Were you formally trained or how did you acquire your experience?
Do you belong to any professional associations?
Are you licensed and registered with the state?
Are you insured?
Do you have any references I may contact?

Questions about Your Bathroom Professional's Work
Do you give written warranties?
Will this project require a permit?
Can you estimate how long this will take?
Will you provide options for different materials?

Interview Question for References
Were you happy with the project?
Was the job completed on time?
Were there any unexpected expenses?
Would you use this bathroom professional again?
Would you recommend this bathroom contractor?

Interviewing this extensively is overkill if you only need a bathroom professional to address a small plumbing problem. The interviews only become necessary with total bathroom remodel or new bathroom addition.