The Comprehensive Guide to Bathroom Remodel Contractors in Raleigh

Who This Is For

This guide is for Raleigh and Wake County homeowners who are planning a shower upgrade or tub-to-shower conversion and need the project done quickly. It is specifically written for those who want to start construction within the next week but are worried about the risks of hiring unpermitted contractors for plumbing-intensive work.

Key Takeaways

• The 7-Day Start is Real: You can legally start a bathroom renovation in one week by utilizing the Express Review (Raleigh) or SPOT (Cary) permitting lanes.
• License Law Change: As of October 2023, North Carolina raised the General Contractor license threshold from $30,000 to $40,000. Projects under this amount do not require a state GC license, making specific trade verification (plumbing/electrical) even more critical.
• The Plumbing Trap: Converting a bathtub to a shower almost always requires moving the drain. This triggers a plumbing permit requirement in Raleigh. Skipping this can cause major issues during resale.
• Seasonal Strategy: October is the peak booking month in Raleigh. Schedule your Holiday Refresh in September to guarantee completion before Thanksgiving.

Finding reliable bathroom remodel contractors in Raleigh often feels like a race against time. You have a vision of replacing that unused, bulky garden tub with a sleek, accessible walk-in shower. You likely also have a deadline, perhaps upcoming holidays or family visits, that makes the typical six to eight week contractor wait time unacceptable.

Our data reveals that 60% of Raleigh homeowners want their project to start within one to seven days. In the construction world, that is lightning fast.

Most contractors will tell you that a seven-day start is impossible due to permitting. Others might promise you a “1-Day Magic Makeover” by skipping permits entirely. Neither option is ideal. The first delays your joy. The second risks your home's safety and value.

There is a third way. By understanding the local Express and SPOT permit systems used by the City of Raleigh and Wake County municipalities, you can have both speed and legality. This guide explains how to navigate the Raleigh market, vetted pros, and the specific codes that govern your tub-to-shower conversion.

The Fast Lane for Permits: How to Start in 7 Days

The biggest bottleneck in any renovation is the government. In many cities, obtaining a building permit can take a month. However, Raleigh and its surrounding towns have created specific fast lanes for simple interior renovations.

The Raleigh Express and Wake SPOT Advantage

The secret to hitting that 7-day start goal lies in knowing which permit application to file.

• City of Raleigh: Offers a Residential Express Review (often called a Walk-in or Next Day review) for interior alterations that do not change the building's footprint.
• Town of Cary/Wake County Areas: Utilizes the SPOT (Small Project, Online Turnaround) review process. This allows contractors to submit plans for interior remodels (under 1,500 sq. ft.) and often receive approval within 1 to 4 business days.

The Unlicensed Loophole: New NC Rules (2025 Update)

You need to be aware of a major change in North Carolina law that affects how you vet contractors.

Historically, any project over $30,000 required a licensed General Contractor. However, effective October 1, 2023, the North Carolina legislature raised this threshold to $40,000.

What This Means for You

Many bathroom remodels, especially wet area upgrades like a tub-to-shower conversion, cost between $15,000 and $35,000.

• Under $40,000: A contractor does not need a General Contractor license from the state to take your money.
• The Risk: You could legally hire a handyman with no state credentials to gut your bathroom.

Since the state is not vetting these under-$40k projects, you must do the vetting.

How to Choose a Pro in the New Landscape

Even if your project is under the $40,000 cap, you must verify the specific trade licenses. The person moving your drain must be a licensed plumber.

1. Verify GC License: Use the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors search tool to see if they hold a license, even if the project is small. It is a sign of professionalism.
2. Verify Trade Subs: Ask for the license numbers of the plumber and electrician who will be on-site.
3. Check Insurance: Verify their General Liability and Workers' Compensation coverage. The North Carolina Department of Justice advises never to pay more than a small percentage upfront.

Ditch the Tub: The Tub-to-Shower Conversion Guide

33% of our Raleigh inquiries are specifically for shower upgrades, with another 15% looking for tub-to-shower conversions. This Ditch the Tub trend is driven by a desire for accessibility and modern aesthetics.

The Plumbing Trap

Replacing a bathtub with a shower is not a simple swap.

• Drain Size: Bathtubs typically use a 1.5-inch drain. Showers require a 2-inch drain to handle the water flow and prevent flooding.
• Drain Location: The drain for a tub is at one end. A shower drain is often centered.

The Permit Requirement

Because you are changing the drain size and location, this is not a cosmetic repair. It is a plumbing alteration. According to the City of Raleigh Sustainable Development office, this requires a plumbing permit.

Why It Matters:

If you sell your home, the inspector will look under the house. If they see a 2-inch shower drain connected to an old 1.5-inch tub line, which is a common handyman shortcut, they will flag it as a code violation. You will have to pay to rip up your new tile and fix it.

Accessible Luxury (Aging in Place)

Raleigh has a growing market for accessible bathrooms. This does not mean your bathroom has to look like a hospital.

• Curbless Entry: We recess the shower pan into the floor for a seamless, trip-free transition.
• Grab Bars: Modern designs use matte black or brushed gold bars that double as towel racks.
• Bench Seating: Floating teak benches add a spa vibe while providing safety.

Ready to hire a pro?Mr. Remodel specializes in rapid, permitted shower conversions. We handle the Raleigh/Wake County paperwork so you can enjoy your new bathroom sooner. Get a free quote from us today. 

Cost Estimates for Raleigh Bathrooms (2025)

Pricing in the Triangle area varies by finish level. Based on local material costs and labor rates, here is what you can expect to invest:

Note: Projects over $40,000 legally require a licensed General Contractor in North Carolina.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I act as my own General Contractor in Raleigh?

Yes. If you own the property and it is your primary residence, you can apply for permits under the Owner-Builder exception. However, you become legally responsible for all code compliance and worker safety. If a worker gets hurt or the plumbing fails, the liability falls on you. Most homeowners find it safer to hire a pro to shield themselves from this liability.

Do I need a permit to just replace the tile in my shower?

Generally, no. If you are only removing old tile and replacing it, without touching the backing board, waterproofing, or plumbing valves, it is considered cosmetic. However, if you tear it down to the studs to replace the waterproofing (which you should do for a long-lasting shower), a building inspection is often required to verify the new waterproof barrier.

How quickly can a bathroom pro start my project?

Pros who are familiar with the Wake County SPOT and Raleigh Express Review systems can often get permits approved in days, not weeks. Mr. Remodel can help you connect with trusted pros who can mobilize their crew to start demolition the moment the permit is issued.

Start Your Bathroom Remodel Mr. Remodel

The bathroom of your dreams is closer than you think. You do not have to choose between a slow, eight-week timeline and a risky, unpermitted one-day job. By leveraging Raleigh's Express Review options and hiring a team that understands the local $40,000 licensing threshold, you can get a high-quality renovation that is fast, legal, and built to last.

Whether you are looking for a simple tub-to-shower update or a full master bath overhaul, the key is preparation. Let Mr. Remodel help you find the right pro for your bathroom remodel needs. 

Get your free, no-obligation quote today.