We’re looking to hire a Certified Service Plumber. If you believe you may be a good fit, please apply here!

Who Should You Hire For A Bathroom Remodel?

Watch Video
Who Should You Hire For A Bathroom Remodel

When it comes to renovating your bathroom, it’s important to hire the right Chicago bathroom remodeling professionals to ensure the job is done right. Whether you’re looking to make simple updates or completely overhaul your space, choosing the right team can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle. 

Now, let us explore who you should hire for a bathroom remodel, focusing on the best choices for Chicago residents.

Why Hiring a Professional is Essential?

Bathroom remodeling projects are not just about picking new tiles or fixtures. These projects often involve significant work, such as plumbing, electrical, and sometimes structural changes. DIY can be tempting, but for complex tasks, it’s always better to hire a professional. Here’s why:

  • Expertise: Professionals have the experience and skills needed to handle a variety of remodeling challenges, ensuring the job is done correctly and up to code.
  • Time-Saving: A professional bathroom remodeler can complete the work much faster than a DIYer, allowing you to enjoy your new space sooner.
  • Warranties: Many remodeling contractors offer warranties on both materials and labor, giving you peace of mind in case something goes wrong.

Hiring the right professional reduces the bathroom remodel cost​ in Chicago and frustrating delays. So it’s important to understand who you need for your project.

When to Hire a Chicago Bathroom Remodeling Firm?

For Chicago residents considering a bathroom remodel, the decision to hire a bathroom remodeling firm depends on the complexity of the job. Here are some scenarios where it’s best to hire a professional:

  • Complexity of the Remodel: If you’re planning to move plumbing fixtures, reconfigure the layout, or change the structural components of the bathroom, hiring a professional is essential.
  • Time Constraints: If you want to know how long a bathroom remodel takes​, a professional team will communicate and complete the remodel more efficiently than a DIY project.
  • Warranties and Insurance: Professionals often provide warranties on their work and materials, which gives you extra protection. This is especially useful for Chicago homeowners who want reassurance that the work is covered.

Who Are the Best Professionals for Your Bathroom Remodel?

Bathroom Remodeling Contractors

For most bathroom remodels, a bathroom remodeling contractor is a must-have. These professionals specialize in bathroom renovations and know how to coordinate various aspects of the job, from design to execution.

  • What They Do: Bathroom remodeling contractors manage the entire project, hiring subcontractors such as plumbers and electricians. They also oversee permits and ensure everything is up to code.
  • When to Hire: If you’re doing a complete remodel or complex renovation, a bathroom remodeling contractor is your best choice.

General Contractors (GC)

A general contractor (GC) is another common choice for remodeling projects. A GC is responsible for overseeing the entire renovation, from acquiring permits to managing subcontractors.

  • What They Do: GCs coordinate the work of all the subcontractors, including electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. They’re great for larger projects where many professionals need to work together.
  • When to Hire: For projects that are a bit more complex, involving several areas of expertise, a GC is ideal. If you plan to make significant changes to your bathroom, a GC can provide valuable support.

Plumbers 

Among the many professionals you might hire, bathroom plumbing contractors are the best choice for bathroom remodeling in Chicago. If your project involves moving plumbing fixtures, adding a shower, or installing new piping, a licensed plumber will ensure everything is done properly.

  • Why Hire a Plumber: For bathroom remodels, plumbing work is unavoidable. Bathroom plumbers in Chicago are particularly skilled at managing bathroom-specific installations, such as showers, bathtubs, and sinks. They can also handle any repairs or upgrades needed to accommodate new plumbing fixtures.
  • Local Expertise: Chicago’s plumbing code is specific, and local plumbers are familiar with these regulations. Hiring a plumber who knows the area ensures compliance with building codes and can help you avoid costly fines.
  • When to Hire a Plumber: If you’re doing anything that involves water supply or drainage, you’ll need a bathroom plumber. Even if the work seems minor, such as replacing faucets or installing a new showerhead, it’s always safer to leave plumbing tasks to the professionals.

Architects/Engineers

For more complex remodels, especially those involving significant structural changes, you may need to hire an architect or engineer. These professionals are experts in design and can help you with the layout and structure of your bathroom.

  • What They Do: Architects help with layout designs, ensuring your remodel fits the space well and adheres to regulations. Engineers are essential if your remodel requires moving walls, adding new windows, or making significant changes to the plumbing or electrical systems.
  • When to Hire: If you’re making drastic changes, such as removing walls or reconfiguring the plumbing and electrical systems, you’ll need an architect or engineer.

Electricians

We know that a Plumber is the Best Choice for Bathroom Remodeling. Other than plumbers, electricians are essential when your remodel includes updating or moving electrical systems. This could include adding new lighting fixtures, outlets, or even installing heated floors.

  • What They Do: Electricians handle any electrical work involved in your remodel, ensuring that everything is up to code and operates safely.
  • When to Hire: If you plan to add lighting, heating, or any other electrical features to your bathroom, hiring an electrician is crucial.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Chicago bathroom remodeling expert is essential for ensuring that your project is completed successfully. For Chicago residents, plumbers are an especially important consideration, as they can handle all the plumbing work with local expertise, ensuring compliance with Chicago’s regulations. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the bathroom remodel of your dreams in no time!

At Baethke Plumbing, we offer expert bathroom remodeling and plumbing services in Chicago. From fixture installations to plumbing code corrections, our certified Plumbers in Chicago ensure your space is functional, up to code, and built to last. With over 30 years of experience, trust us for a seamless remodeling experience that’s both eco-friendly and cost-effective. 

Contact us today and let’s make your dream bathroom a reality!

(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Chicago?

The cost of a bathroom remodel in Chicago can vary depending on the size, scope, and materials used. On average, it can range from $5,000 to $15,000. For a more accurate estimate, contact a remodeling plumber for a detailed quote.

Do I need a permit for a bathroom remodel in Chicago?

Yes, most bathroom remodels in Chicago require permits, especially if you’re making structural changes, moving plumbing, or installing new electrical systems. Your plumber or contractor will help secure the necessary permits for your project.

How long does a bathroom remodel take in Chicago?

A typical bathroom remodel in Chicago takes about 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project. Factors like plumbing and electrical work can extend the timeline, so be sure to discuss your project schedule with your contractor.

Can I remodel my bathroom myself in Chicago?

While small updates like painting or changing fixtures can be DIY, most bathroom remodels require professional plumbing and electrical work to meet Chicago’s code requirements. Hiring a licensed plumber ensures your remodel is done safely and up to code.

What are “Green Plumbing” methods?

“Green Plumbing” refers to eco-friendly plumbing solutions that reduce water and energy usage, like low-flow faucets and water-efficient toilets. Baethke Plumbing offers these methods to help you save on utility bills while being kind to the environment.

Top rated
Baethke Plumbing4.7
Based on 976 reviews
Randi Hall
2 days ago
I've hired Baethke Plumbing numerous times for my condo unit. I recently called them out to investigate a water leak in my kitchen. Donnie, the service technician, was prompt (8AM sharp!) and immediately found the source of the problem. Donnie provided me clear recommendations on how to resolve the issue. He was sincere and thorough throughout the visit and I appreciate Baethke's responsiveness overall.
Response from the owner:Randi, thank you for continuing to choose Baethke Plumbing for your condo. We’re glad Donnie arrived right on time, pinpointed the kitchen leak quickly, and walked you through clear options to fix it. We also appreciate your note about our responsiveness and the care taken during the visit.
Robert Galloway
4 days ago
Baethke Plumbing was prompt, sincere, timely, reliable, and friendly. It is easy to see why they are a trusted plumber near me. If great service had a favorite place, this would be it. Extremely helpful in solving our sump pump issue quickly and efficiently.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Robert, for taking the time to share this. We’re glad our team arrived promptly, treated you with care, and got your sump pump issue resolved quickly and efficiently. We appreciate your trust and are here anytime you need a hand.
Gladys Sanchez
4 days ago
I really appreciated how prompt, sincere, timely, reliable, and friendly Baethke Plumbing was. They made the whole experience easy and stress free. If you need a plumber, I would definitely start with them.
Response from the owner:Gladys, thank you for taking the time to share this. We’re glad our quick arrival, dependable work, and friendly service helped make the process simple and low stress. We appreciate the recommendation and we’re here anytime you need a hand.
Danielle Reed
1 week ago
Baethke Plumbing did a fantastic job! John the plumber was very friendly, kind, and knowledgeable. He did a great job, would hire again!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Danielle, for taking the time to share this. We’re glad John made the experience comfortable and was able to help with confidence and care. We appreciate the opportunity and would be happy to assist again anytime.
Jason Aspin
1 week ago
Isaac and Adam just inspected the drain line below our 100-year-old bungalow. They were very professional and took the time to explain the pipe's condition and the available repair options in language I could easily understand. Their willingness to answer questions gave me confidence in their recommendations. I was impressed and will ask for them again when it's time to repipe our house.
Response from the owner:Jason, thank you for the kind review. We’re glad Isaac and Adam could thoroughly inspect your drain line and clearly walk you through the pipe’s condition and repair options, especially in an older home like yours. It means a lot that their patience in answering questions helped you feel confident, and we’d be happy to send them again when you’re ready to repipe.
Bob Lyman
1 week ago
Josh was a pleasure to work with! He was professional and went above and beyond to help us with our plumbing issues.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much, Bob, for taking the time to share this. We’re glad Josh was professional, easy to work with, and put in the extra effort to get your plumbing issues sorted out. We appreciate you choosing Baethke Plumbing.
Mateo Forero
1 week ago
Great workmanship and friendly team, but expect to pay double and be billed for every single thing. I’m giving Baethke Plumbing 3 stars because while their technicians are genuinely kind, courteous, and do high-quality physical work, their billing practices are rigid to a fault. It’s no secret that Baethke is expensive. You can expect to pay roughly 2x what an average Chicago plumber charges. Honestly, I didn’t mind paying a premium upfront because the professionalism and craftsmanship are clearly there. In my case, I paid over $4,000 for the diagnosis and repair of a corroded copper pipe, and the invoice specifically noted that the line was water-tested afterward to confirm the leak was resolved. However, a week or two later, I still had water coming in and had to call them back out. It turned out there was another pinhole leak from corrosion just two feet further downstream on that exact same copper pipe. While I understand that their warranty only covers the specific section of pipe they replaced, they charged me an additional $800 just to diagnose and tell me that the exact same line still had a leak two feet away. When you pay over $4,000 to a top-tier company to diagnose and fix a leaking pipe, including a post-repair water test, you expect them to verify that the rest of that immediate run isn't actively leaking before wrapping up, rather than assuming the corrosion stopped right at the cut. More importantly, charging a customer $800 just to point out a missed pinhole two feet down the same pipe feels inappropriate given how much was already spent. Had the remaining leak been coming from a different source, I could understand but from the same pipe is a different story. Overall, Baethke is a good plumbing company with very nice people who do solid work. Just go in knowing that not only are their base rates exceptionally high, but they also bill strictly by the book for every step, even in follow-up situations where a little goodwill or common sense should apply.
Response from the owner:Mateo, thank you for taking the time to share your experience and for recognizing the professionalism and workmanship of our team. We understand your frustration with the additional diagnostic charge, particularly given the proximity of the second leak to the original repair. We appreciate you sharing your perspective on the situation, and your concerns regarding the follow-up visit and billing are important to us. We strive to provide quality service throughout every step of the process, and we appreciate you bringing this experience to our attention. I did review everything that Josh did and unfortunately, the untreated, Acidic Combustion Condensate that had been discharged for so long into that copper drain pipe has significantly thinned the pipe. It was 2 weeks later for that additional leak and we can't guarantee there won't be another unless all of the copper piping is replaced. That would be significant. If you would like to discuss this you are always welcome to call me either in the office at 773-276-5430, or on my cell at 773-447-4913. Thank you again.
Lisa Agona
2 weeks ago
Excellent service and skilled plumbing. Josh and his apprentice were outstanding. No shortcuts, precision in their work, accommodating. I was not looking forward to having work done due yo the cost of plumbing and the fear of shoddy work (past experience). This was the best plumbing experience I have ever had and it is worth every penny.
Response from the owner:Lisa, thank you for taking the time to share this. We’re glad Josh and his apprentice delivered careful, precise work and made the whole process feel straightforward and respectful. It means a lot to hear we helped ease your concerns and that the results felt worth the investment.
Not Woke
2 weeks ago
Great job. Recommended.
Response from the owner:Thanks for the kind words. We’re glad you were happy with the work, and we really appreciate you recommending Baethke Plumbing to others.
Carl Wesa
2 weeks ago
Baethke Plumbing was the right decision! John, who came out to do an inspection and a root clearing on my sewer main line, was on time, very friendly, and above all, honest. It’s tough out there as a homeowner and there are so many options to choose from. I’m glad I made the choice to go with Baethke because now I’ll never have to choose anyone else for my plumbing projects in the future. Thanks John, you da best!
Response from the owner:Carl, thank you for choosing Baethke Plumbing and for sharing this. We’re happy John arrived on time, treated you with respect, and gave you an honest inspection and root clearing on your sewer main line. We appreciate your trust and look forward to helping with any plumbing needs down the road.

Author Bio

John Baethke

John Baethke

Owner, Baethke Plumbing

John Baethke is the owner of Baethke Plumbing, a trusted Greater Chicago plumbing company known for exceptional customer service, technical expertise, and continuous employee training. With experience in modern plumbing and HVAC solutions, he is committed to delivering reliable, forward-thinking service. John also serves on several industry boards and committees and is a Past President of the Illinois Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors Association.

Who Should You Hire For A Bathroom Remodel?

Our Products and Services Come With a Worry-Free Guarantee

Share