As a seasoned general contractor, I understand the excitement that accompanies the beginning of a new bathroom renovation. You’ve meticulously chosen your new fixtures, picked out the perfect tiles, and are eagerly anticipating the transformation of your space. But what happens when the unexpected occurs, such as discovering mold or unforeseen plumbing problems?

50% to 60% of bathroom renovations may encounter some kind of unexpected issue. These can range from minor problems such as discovering outdated fixtures that don’t meet current building codes to major issues like structural damage, mold, or outdated plumbing and electrical systems.

However, this is a rough estimate and the percentage could be higher or lower based on individual circumstances. It’s always wise to plan for unexpected issues by setting aside a contingency budget, typically around 10%-20% of the total project cost, to handle unforeseen expenses during a renovation.

Always remember that the goal of a renovation is not just aesthetic improvement, but also to ensure a safe and functional space. Dealing with these unexpected issues as they arise is an important part of the renovation process.

It’s also worth noting that Borman Construction will do our best to identify potential issues during the initial inspection and planning phases, but not all problems can be foreseen until the renovation is underway and areas behind walls, under floors, or above ceilings are exposed.

Here’s a detailed rundown on how we handle these unexpected issues.

Identifying the Problem

Unforeseen problems usually come to light during the demolition phase of a bathroom renovation. This could be mold growth behind the walls or outdated plumbing that needs replacement. A professional contractor will know how to identify these issues and bring them to your attention immediately.

Assessing the Situation

Once a potential problem is spotted, we’ll pause the renovation and assess the situation. This may involve calling in a specialist, such as a plumber or a mold remediation expert, to examine the problem and advise on the next steps. This process ensures that we understand the full extent of the problem before we start discussing solutions.

Developing a Plan of Action

After identifying and understanding the problem, we’ll develop a plan to tackle it. This might mean removing mold-infected materials and treating the area to prevent future growth, or replacing outdated pipes with modern plumbing. This process can also include obtaining any necessary permits for the additional work.

Adjusting the Budget and Timeline

Once we’ve determined the appropriate solution, we’ll discuss the new scope of work with you, including its impact on the project’s cost and timeline. While encountering these unexpected issues can indeed lead to additional expenses and delays, addressing them during the renovation is crucial to ensuring the longevity of your new bathroom and the health and safety of your household.

Executing the Plan

With your approval, we’ll carry out the necessary work to rectify the problem. We aim to do this as quickly and efficiently as possible to limit any inconvenience.

Resuming the Renovation

Once the unforeseen issue is resolved, we’ll continue with the renovation according to the revised plan.

Discovering unexpected problems during a bathroom renovation can be stressful. However, it’s important to remember that these issues are not uncommon, and a professional contractor will have the experience and resources to deal with them effectively. The key is open and frequent communication, which ensures that as a homeowner, you’re informed and involved in every step of the process.

So, as you embark on your bathroom renovation, rest assured that even if unexpected problems arise, a competent and reliable contractor will help you navigate these issues, ensuring the end result is a beautiful, functional, and safe bathroom that will serve your family for years to come.