May 5th, 2025
3 min read
By Joe Cox
Hiring a professional for your tub-to-shower conversion in Newport Beach is the first step toward the bathroom of your dreams. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy. Even the most seasoned homeowner can fall prey to problematic contractors.
Recognizing the warning signs of common scams before signing a contract is essential.
Errors may occur due to inexperience or a company not realizing that what they are doing isn’t the norm. They might fail to plan or use cheap insert liners or other materials.
Other companies only know how to use aggressive sales tactics and pressure homeowners to sign contracts before researching options. Or, their quotes might be low because they miss potential issues with the remodel.
The bottom line? If it seems too good to be true, it likely will result in additional costs over time.
Spotting red flags in advance saves you money and time during your bathtub-to-shower conversion.
Warning signs come in all shapes and sizes. Some of the most common things to be aware of in a bathroom remodel project include:
Contracts that demand a hefty upfront deposit - Most deposits are a reasonable percentage of your quoted cost for the entire project. Contractors should never ask you to pay in full for the job before work begins.
Estimates that seem too low or otherwise too good to be true - Lowball quotes often result in tacked-on fees or other expenses as the project progresses.
Contractors who tell you licenses, references, or insurance aren’t necessary - The contractor you choose should have these things and provide you access to them.
It’s also a good idea to check a contractor’s rating with the Better Business Bureau. Shugarman’s Bath is A+ rated with the BBB https://www.bbb.org/ open in new tab.
The simplest way to avoid a problem is to trust your judgment. If something seems off, research before signing a contract or find another service provider.
When shopping for a bath remodeling contractor, asking about their credentials is appropriate. Reputable companies are more than happy to share their qualifications with you.
Shugarman’s Bath is a licensed and insured company. Family-owned and operated, we have received various industry awards, including the Good Housekeeping Seal for Bath Planet Products. If a product with the seal fails within two years, Good Housekeeping open in new tab, not the manufacturer, will refund your money or replace the product.
We’re also a Bath Planet Regional Dealer of the Year and have been recognized as San Diego's Best Local Construction Company, Kitchen & Bath Remodeler, and Building Contractor for the last three years by San Diego Union-Tribune readers.
One of the most common issues to avoid involves contractors giving you a low quote to get you to sign a contract. But then they add fees and other costs as the project advances and surprises, such as mold or plumbing, are discovered.
Shugarman’s Never Any Extras Guarantee means you’ll know precisely what you’ll pay when you receive your quote, even if we discover problems later in the process.
We also do more than just install a liner over existing problems.
We never ignore or cover up problems. As part of your wet area remodel, we’ll fix your subfloor, replace or reinforce rotted studs, and address any plumbing issues.
Begin your bathtub-to-shower conversion by researching local contractors. A quick online search will bring up several options. Read online reviews for several service providers. If you like what you see about one or more contractors, check their licensing and insurance with the California State License Board (CSLB) open in new tab.
Once you know the best contractors on your list are licensed and insured, contact them and ask for a detailed quote. If any quotes seem unreasonably low, they could be scams.
This is also a good time to ask service providers for references.
Before signing a contract with a remodeling company, carefully review the contract they give you. Ensure your tub-to-shower conversion details, including costs, timelines, materials, and warranties, are clearly outlined.
Finally, ensure you understand payment details and financing if you go that route.
If you dream of transforming your Newport Beach tub with a tub-to-shower conversion and want to use a company that earns your trust, contact us at Shugarman’s Bath for a free estimate.
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