Walk-In Tubs in Houston, TX

The median home in Houston was built in 1982, and about 47% were built before 1980. Many homes of this age still have their first kitchen or bathroom. Decide early whether you want to move fixtures, since that changes the permit and the scope. Federal EPA rules require firms that disturb painted surfaces in homes built before 1978 to follow lead-safe work practices. Ask whether the company is EPA lead-safe certified.

The U.S. Department of Energy places Harris County in climate zone 2A (hot, humid). In a damp climate, a bathroom exhaust fan that vents outside (not into the attic) helps prevent mold.

About 45% of homes in Houston are in buildings with five or more units. Condo buildings often need approval before a remodel and may limit work hours. Only about 42% of occupied homes in Houston are lived in by their owners, so many residents rent. Renters should check with the property owner or manager before hiring anyone for a walk-in tub installation.

Moving plumbing, adding electrical circuits or changing walls usually needs a permit; swapping fixtures in place usually does not. In Houston, permits come from the city's building department, or from Harris County for addresses outside city limits. Ask the company who pulls the permit, and keep a copy of it.

Texas has no statewide general contractor license; TDLR licenses air conditioning and refrigeration contractors. For other trades, ask your city or county building department which license applies, and ask the company for its license number.