Contract guide

How to compare bathroom remodel quotes in California

What California law says a written home improvement contract has to include, so you can put two or three quotes side by side. Each answer cites the statute or state agency and the date we checked it (10/27/2026). This is a reference, not legal advice.

How do I compare bathroom remodel quotes in California?

Line the quotes up on the same points: the contractor's license number, the contract price, a description of the project and the materials, the down payment, how change orders work, and your right to cancel. California's home improvement contract law, Business and Professions Code section 7159, covers each of these for contracts over $500. The answers below explain each one.

Source: California Business and Professions Code section 7159. Checked 10/27/2026.

What must a home improvement contract include in California?

Section 7159 says a home improvement contract, and any changes to it, must be in writing and signed by the parties before work starts. It must include the contractor's name, business address and license number, the contract price, a description of the project and of the significant materials to be used and equipment to be installed, an approximate start date and an approximate completion date, and a statement of whether a subcontractor will be used. The contract must also say: "You are entitled to a completely filled in copy of this agreement, signed by both you and the contractor, before any work may be started."

Source: California Business and Professions Code section 7159. Checked 10/27/2026.

How much deposit can a contractor ask for in California?

Under section 7159, the down payment may not exceed $1,000 or 10 percent of the contract price, whichever is less. The same section says it is against the law for a contractor to collect payment for work not yet completed, or for materials not yet delivered, although a contractor may require a down payment. Any other payments made before the project is finished must be listed in a schedule of progress payments that describes each phase of work.

Source: California Business and Professions Code section 7159. Checked 10/27/2026.

Can I cancel a home improvement contract in California?

For a contract that was not negotiated at the contractor's place of business, section 7159 requires a notice that you have the right to cancel within three business days after you receive a signed and dated copy of the contract. For a buyer who is a senior citizen, the notice reads five business days (contracts entered into on or after 01/01/2021). If you cancel, the contractor must return anything you paid within 10 days of receiving your notice. A seven-day notice applies to certain disaster-repair contracts.

Source: California Business and Professions Code section 7159. Checked 10/27/2026.

What happens with extra work or change orders?

Section 7159 says extra work and change orders become part of the contract once the order is prepared in writing and signed by the parties before the work covered by the new change order starts. The order must describe the scope of the extra work or change, the cost to be added or subtracted from the contract, and the effect the order will have on the schedule of progress payments.

Source: California Business and Professions Code section 7159. Checked 10/27/2026.

How do I check a contractor's license in California?

Look up the contractor's license number on the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website. Our license is CA Lic. B & C-36 #1139422. The CSLB record lists TN BUILDER LLC, shows the license as "current and active," and lists the classifications B - General Building and C36 - Plumbing. CSLB marked that record as current as of 10/27/2026.

Source: California Contractors State License Board, license record 1139422. Checked 10/27/2026.

Is the New Bath Co estimate free?

Yes. Estimates are free and happen in your house, not a showroom. We measure, bring samples and give you a written price.

What does a tub-to-shower conversion cost at New Bath Co?

Tub-to-shower conversions and tub replacements start at $10,000. Full bathroom remodels are quoted per project. Your exact price depends on the footprint, the walls, the pan and the fixtures you pick. We measure in your house and give you a written price.

Read the cost guide

Get a free in-home estimate Call (657) 650-6111