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What to Know About Re-Bath Before You Hire Them

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

Re-Bath is a national bathroom remodeling franchise, not a general contractor

Re-Bath specializes in bathtub and shower replacement, not full home renovation. The company operates as a franchise system, meaning individual locations are independently owned and operated under the Re-Bath brand. If you are looking for someone to handle a complete bathroom overhaul—new plumbing, electrical work, tile, vanities, and fixtures—Re-Bath may handle the tub and shower portion, but you may need a separate general contractor for the rest of the work.

Re-Bath's core service is replacing existing tubs and showers with acrylic or gel-coat units that fit into the same space. They also install shower doors, grab bars, and related fixtures. The company operates in multiple states, though not all locations offer the same services or have the same reputation. Because Re-Bath is a franchise system, the quality and reliability of your local branch depends on that specific owner and their team.

Key Takeaways

  • Re-Bath focuses on bathtub and shower replacement only, not full bathroom remodeling or general contracting work.
  • Re-Bath operates as a franchise, so each location is independently owned and the quality of work varies by branch.
  • Before hiring any Re-Bath location, check online reviews specific to that franchise owner, not the national brand.
  • Get a written estimate that specifies materials, labor, timeline, and warranty terms before signing any contract.
  • Verify that your local Re-Bath location is licensed and insured in South Carolina before work begins.

How Re-Bath's replacement process typically works

Re-Bath removes your existing tub or shower and installs a prefabricated acrylic or gel-coat unit in its place. The process usually takes one to three days, depending on the complexity of the job and whether any structural issues are found during removal. The company measures your existing space, manufactures a custom-fit unit, and schedules installation. Because the new unit is designed to fit the existing footprint, there is typically no need for major plumbing or structural changes.

The company handles demolition, removal of the old fixture, installation of the new unit, sealing and caulking, and installation of any accessories like grab bars or shower doors. You should ask your local Re-Bath location whether they handle all plumbing connections or whether you need a licensed plumber for that step. Some franchise locations subcontract plumbing work; others do it in-house. Get this in writing before you sign a contract.

Questions to ask before you hire a Re-Bath location

Ask whether the franchise owner is licensed as a general contractor or as a specialty contractor in South Carolina. Licensing requirements vary by county and by the scope of work, so this matters. Request proof of current liability insurance and ask what coverage applies if something goes wrong during installation. A reputable business will provide this information without hesitation.

Ask for references from recent customers in your area—not just names, but people who had work done within the last year. Contact at least two and ask whether the work was completed on time, whether the crew cleaned up after themselves, and whether any issues arose after installation. Ask about the warranty: what does it cover, how long does it last, and who honors it if the franchise location closes or changes ownership. Get the warranty terms in writing.

Ask whether the estimate includes removal and disposal of your old tub or shower, or whether that is an additional charge. Ask what happens if the crew discovers mold, water damage, or structural problems once they start the work—will the price change, and by how much. Ask for a written timeline and what happens if the job takes longer than expected.

How to research a specific Re-Bath location

Search for reviews of the specific franchise location you are considering, not the national Re-Bath brand. Google Maps, the Better Business Bureau, and Yelp all carry location-specific reviews. Read recent reviews carefully—look for patterns in complaints. If multiple people mention the same problem (crew showed up late, work took much longer than promised, caulking failed within months), that is a red flag.

Check the Better Business Bureau website for the franchise location's rating and complaint history. The BBB does not rate all businesses, but if your local Re-Bath is listed, you can see how they respond to complaints. A business that responds professionally to negative reviews and tries to resolve issues is generally more trustworthy than one that ignores complaints.

Call your local South Carolina licensing board or your county's building department and ask whether the Re-Bath location holds a valid contractor's license and whether any complaints have been filed against them. Some counties require permits for bathroom work; ask whether Re-Bath will pull the permit or whether you need to do it yourself.

What a written estimate should include

A clear estimate lists the exact materials (acrylic or gel-coat, brand, color, size), the labor cost, the timeline (start and end dates), and any additional charges (removal, disposal, accessories). It should specify what is and is not included—for example, whether plumbing connections are included or whether you need to hire a plumber separately. The estimate should state the warranty terms and who is responsible for what if problems arise after installation.

Do not sign a contract based on a verbal quote or a vague estimate. If the company will not provide a detailed written estimate, that is a reason to look elsewhere. A reputable contractor will spend time measuring your space, discussing your needs, and providing a clear breakdown of costs before asking you to commit.

Red flags to watch for

Be cautious if a Re-Bath location pressures you to sign a contract the same day or offers a discount that expires immediately. Legitimate contractors give you time to think and compare options. Be cautious if they cannot or will not provide references, proof of insurance, or a written estimate. Be cautious if they ask for full payment upfront; most contractors ask for a deposit and the balance upon completion.

Be cautious if the estimate is significantly lower than others you have received. Unusually low prices sometimes mean the contractor is cutting corners on materials or labor, or plans to add charges later. Ask why their price is lower and get the explanation in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Re-Bath handle plumbing and electrical work?

Re-Bath's primary service is tub and shower replacement. Some franchise locations handle plumbing connections in-house; others subcontract that work to a licensed plumber. Ask your local Re-Bath location directly and get their answer in writing. If you need electrical work (new lighting, ventilation fan installation), you will likely need a separate licensed electrician.

What is the typical cost of a Re-Bath installation?

Costs vary widely depending on the size of your tub or shower, the materials you choose, your location, and whether additional work is needed. Get a written estimate from your local Re-Bath location. Do not rely on national averages; your specific franchise owner sets their own prices.

How long does a Re-Bath installation take?

Most installations take one to three days. The timeline depends on how straightforward the removal is and whether any structural or plumbing issues are discovered. Ask your local Re-Bath location for a specific timeline and what happens if the work takes longer than expected.

What warranty does Re-Bath offer?

Warranty terms vary by franchise location and by the materials you choose. Some offer limited warranties on the tub or shower unit itself; others include labor warranties. Get the warranty in writing before you sign a contract, and ask who honors the warranty if the franchise location closes or changes ownership.

Can I find a Re-Bath location in South Carolina?

Re-Bath operates in multiple states, but not all areas have a franchise location. Search the Re-Bath website or call their national number to find locations near you. Once you identify a location, research that specific franchise owner before contacting them.