Local service guide
Bathroom Remodeling in Aurora, CO: Plan and Hire
For Bathroom Remodeling in Aurora, define your layout and fixture choices, compare written bids, and verify the contractor through the city's lookup before signing. Aurora requires appropriate contractor licensing. Use the Building Permit Center for project-specific permit questions, then put responsibility for applications, inspections and completion records in your contract. [1] [2]
Define the scope before requesting prices
Start with photos, room measurements and a list of fixtures you want to retain. Specify whether you want to move the toilet, vanity or shower. Describe the problem you want to solve, such as an awkward shower entry, poor storage or lighting that makes grooming difficult.
For a shower replacement, have bidders describe demolition, surface preparation, waterproofing, drain work and the enclosure. Include how the installer will check the work before covering it. Assign responsibility for measuring, ordering and fitting shower glass.
Discuss access needs before choosing finishes. Review the proposed shower entry, door clearances, grab-bar backing and vanity height with the contractor. Check storage reach against the needs of the people who will use the room.
Check the contractor and trade team
Aurora requires contractors to hold the appropriate license for building alterations and repairs. Its contractor lookup lets you check who holds a license to work in the city. Match the business named in the proposal to the business you check. [1]
For plumbing and electrical contractors, the city requires current Colorado master and contractor licenses on file with the Building Division. Aurora does not issue separate city contractor licenses for those trades. Have the remodeler identify the trade businesses that will perform your work. [1]
Request insurance documentation and references for bathrooms with a similar scope. During reference calls, discuss communication, changes to the agreed price and how the contractor resolved unfinished items. Include the person responsible for coordinating trades in your contract.
Compare quotes and control changes
Request a quote after a site visit. Give each bidder the same fixture list and separate optional layout changes from the base project. Have bidders itemize demolition, disposal, plumbing, electrical work, ventilation, waterproofing, tile, cabinetry and permit-related costs.
For each allowance, record the amount and what it covers. Identify who supplies valves, faucets, mirrors and accessories, and who handles damaged deliveries or incompatible parts. Read exclusions alongside the total price before deciding which offer fits your budget.
Set a reserve you can afford for unresolved work. Require the contractor to photograph concealed damage, explain the proposed repair and obtain your written approval of its price and schedule effect. Include payment milestones and the process for approving substitutions.
Plan installation and household disruption
Have the contractor identify the stages when you can use the toilet and shower. If this is your only bathroom, arrange an alternative before demolition. Review product delivery dates, working hours, access, dust protection and cleanup with the person managing the job.
Agree on a completion walkthrough. Operate the fixtures and ventilation controls with the contractor, record remaining work, and collect care instructions, warranties and the inspection records agreed in your contract. Set dates for resolving the remaining items.
Aurora Water residential consumption rates in 2026
Local details that affect your job
Price electrical work under the current permit rules
Aurora began applying the 2026 National Electrical Code to new electrical permit applications on August 1, 2026. Discuss the applicable requirements with the electrician before approving wiring, lighting or outlet changes. The Building Permit Center handles permit, plan-review, inspection and code questions at 303.739.7420; describe your address and proposed scope when contacting staff. [2]
Check the toilet model and purchase deadline
Aurora Water offers up to $100 based on pre-tax toilet material cost when you replace a toilet using at least 1.6 gallons per flush with a qualifying 0.8-gallon-per-flush WaterSense model. Households can receive rebates for up to two toilets every 10 years. Complete installation before applying and submit the application and receipt within 90 days of purchase. Applicants need an account in good standing with a zero balance; the utility may require an inspection. Schedule the purchase around installation so you can meet that deadline. [3]
Use your water bill to assess operating costs
Aurora Water charges residential customers by consumption tier and also charges separate base amounts. It determines sewer usage from average December, January and February water use. Review your own consumption and billing components when choosing fixtures. The published water rates do not establish a specific household bill reduction. [4]
Choose the next step for your bathroom
| Project priority | Prepare before bidding | Resolve in the proposal |
|---|---|---|
| Finish refresh | Identify fixtures and surfaces to retain. | Preparation, disposal and each replacement item. |
| Shower replacement | Describe entry, drain and enclosure preferences. | Waterproofing checks and glass installation responsibility. |
| Layout change | Sketch desired fixture positions. | Separate pricing for relocation and permit responsibilities. |
| Easier access | List reach, entry and support needs. | Clearances, backing and fixture placement. |
| Only bathroom | Arrange alternative bathroom access. | Usable toilet and shower dates, plus disruption planning. |
Your hiring checklist
- Prepare photos, measurements and a shared list of retained and replacement fixtures.
- Record the contractor and trade businesses you checked.
- Assign permit applications, fees and inspection scheduling in the contract.
- Compare matching products, allowance amounts and exclusions.
- Document shower preparation, waterproofing and enclosure responsibilities.
- Agree on change approvals, payment milestones and bathroom access.
- Keep fixture receipts, warranties and completion records together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a bathroom remodel need a permit?
Confirm your proposed work with Aurora's Building Permit Center. Its supplied permit guidance provides application resources and a contact for code questions, but does not establish bathroom-specific exemption rules. Describe fixture relocation, wiring, ventilation and wall changes when seeking a determination. [2]
Can I receive the toilet rebate if my HOA pays the water bill?
Eligible homeowners whose HOA pays the water bill can use Aurora Water's HOA-based application and receive a check. Other household participants receive a water-bill credit. Check the program's fixture and account conditions before purchasing. [3]
Do the household rebate steps apply to a multifamily property project?
Aurora Water requires prior approval for large-property rebates. Applicants must receive approval before starting installations. If you are arranging a property-wide replacement, contact Water Conservation at 303.739.7195 before buying or scheduling the work. [3]
How much should I budget for the remodel?
Build your budget from site-specific bids against one agreed scope. Request separate prices for optional changes and identify allowances you still need to resolve. Keep your spending limit and reserve explicit before selecting finishes or approving demolition.
Sources and scope
This guide combines the sources below with practical planning guidance. Figures apply to the stated geography and period; request a written quote for your property.