Q: Who's responsible for shower remodel redo costs?

A: In this situation, the original contractor is likely responsible for the costs of redoing the shower. When you have a written contract with a warranty that covers workmanship, the contractor has an obligation to deliver quality work that meets industry standards. Poor grout installation, uneven tiles, and shower pan integrity issues all suggest substandard workmanship that fails to meet these standards.

Your first step should be to formally document all issues in writing and send this to the original company, requesting they honor their warranty. Include photos and the independent assessment from the second contractor. The fact that the new estimate is higher than their original work doesn't absolve them of responsibility - they're obligated to fix their defective work or cover reasonable costs for someone else to do so.

If they continue to refuse, you may need to consider legal options such as small claims court, depending on the amount involved. Many states have specific consumer protection laws for home improvement contracts. Before proceeding, gather all documentation including the original contract, warranty information, written communications, photos of defects, and the new contractor's assessment. This documentation will strengthen your position whether you pursue mediation, arbitration, or legal action to recover the costs necessary to properly complete the work you already paid for.