Renovating your bathroom can be one of the most rewarding upgrades to your home—but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. The difference between a smooth, successful renovation and a frustrating, costly mess often comes down to one key decision: choosing the right contractor.
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in Amsterdam, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to hire the right professional—from checking qualifications and understanding local laws to spotting red flags and asking the right questions. Let’s dive in.
1. Prioritize Local Experience in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a beautiful but complex city when it comes to home renovations. Many buildings are historic, tightly packed, or located along canals, which means plumbing, ventilation, and structural issues can be trickier than in newer homes.
Why local expertise matters:
- Old or narrow staircases can affect how materials and tools are transported.
- Noise and work hour regulations differ in various neighborhoods and require knowledge of local ordinances.
- Permits and approvals for older or protected buildings (Rijksmonumenten) often require special handling.
- Municipal drainage systems in Amsterdam can differ even block-to-block.
Tip: Ask contractors how familiar they are with Amsterdam-specific housing types and if they’ve worked in your neighborhood before.
2. Check for Licenses, Registrations & Insurance
Not all contractors operate legally or ethically. Protect yourself by confirming that the contractor:
- Is registered with the KvK (Kamer van Koophandel) – this ensures they’re a legitimate business.
- Has aannemersverzekering (contractor’s liability insurance), which protects you from damages caused during the project.
- Uses qualified electricians and plumbers who follow Dutch NEN standards and are possibly VCA-certified for safety.
If you’re working with a general contractor who outsources plumbing or electrical work, ask who will be doing that work and whether they are properly certified.
Warning sign: If a contractor refuses to provide proof of insurance or KvK registration, walk away.
3. Review Their Portfolio and Ask for Real References
It’s easy for anyone to say they’re experienced, but visual proof and customer feedback say more than any sales pitch ever could.
What to look for in a portfolio:
- Before/after photos of recent bathroom renovations.
- Projects that match your preferred style or layout.
- Work done in buildings similar to yours (e.g., canal houses, apartments, etc.).
Don’t just rely on pictures. Ask for 2–3 references you can speak with directly. When calling past clients, ask:
- Was the work completed on time?
- Were any issues encountered, and how were they resolved?
- Was the contractor respectful of your home (cleanliness, noise, etc.)?
- Would you hire them again?
Real testimonials from Amsterdam homeowners can help you filter out unreliable contractors.
4. Request Detailed Quotes—And Compare Them Carefully
Avoid vague ballpark figures. A professional contractor should provide a written, itemized quote that breaks down:
- Labor costs
- Materials (with brand/model details)
- Demolition/removal
- Plumbing and electrical work
- Tiling and finishes
- Ventilation upgrades (mandatory in some cases)
- Timeline and payment milestones
Why multiple quotes matter:
Getting 2–4 quotes will help you understand the average cost of your project, spot hidden charges, and avoid being overcharged.
Be wary of:
- Unusually low quotes – they often lead to poor quality, delays, or surprise fees.
- Cash-only deals – these may seem cheaper but come with no warranty or legal protection.
5. Understand the Timeline (and Build in a Buffer)
Time estimates can be optimistic, especially if structural issues, delivery delays, or permit approvals come into play.
A reputable contractor will give you a realistic timeline, including:
- Start and finish dates
- A breakdown of each project phase
- Potential delays and how they’re handled
- When you’ll need to be present (e.g., for tile selections, inspections)
Amsterdam tip: Deliveries and storage can be a challenge in narrow streets, so ask how the contractor plans to handle logistics and whether they have a nearby storage facility.
6. Ask About Their Team and Subcontractors
Is the contractor doing all the work themselves, or do they work with a team or hire subcontractors for plumbing, tiling, or electrical tasks?
You have the right to know:
- Who exactly will be in your home
- How qualified they are
- If they speak English or Dutch (communication is key)
- Who is supervising the work daily
A hands-off contractor who delegates everything can lead to confusion, delays, or inconsistent workmanship.
7. Evaluate Communication and Transparency
The renovation process is full of decisions. You’ll want someone who can clearly explain your options, suggest improvements, and respond quickly to your questions or concerns.
Green flags:
- Prompt, clear replies to your emails or WhatsApp messages
- Willingness to walk you through materials, layouts, or unexpected issues
- No pressure to “sign quickly” or commit without thinking
Red flags:
- Vague answers
- Defensive when you ask about details or pricing
- Doesn’t provide updates without being asked
Remember: You’re hiring a partner, not just a builder.
8. Read Reviews—But Know How to Interpret Them
Check:
- Google Reviews
- Werkspot
- Facebook or Instagram comments
- Trustpilot
Look for:
- Trends in feedback (positive or negative)
- Recent reviews (within the past 6–12 months)
- How the contractor responds to criticism
A single bad review isn’t always a dealbreaker—but poor communication in response to feedback is.
9. Know What’s Included (and Not Included)
Many bathroom renovation quotes do not include certain items by default. Always double-check if the following are included:
- Disposal of old fixtures and debris
- Ventilation system upgrades (which are required in many Amsterdam bathrooms)
- Final cleaning
- Warranty or service after completion
Ask for everything in writing. It protects both you and the contractor.
10. Trust Your Gut
Finally, go with your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. You’re trusting someone with your home—and a significant investment.
You should feel:
- Comfortable asking questions
- Confident in their professionalism
- Respected and listened to
Never rush the process. The right contractor will understand that you want to make an informed decision.
Ready to Renovate? We’re Here to Help.
At De Badkamer Renovatie, we specialize in high-quality bathroom renovations across Amsterdam. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of working in the city’s diverse buildings—from modern apartments to centuries-old canal homes.
✅ Registered, insured, and locally based
✅ Transparent pricing with detailed quotes
✅ Expert craftsmanship, thoughtful design
✅ Real references and a proven track record
✅ Always up to date with the lates bathroom trends
🎯 Contact us today for a free consultation or to request a quote. We’ll guide you every step of the way—from first ideas to final result.
