Cost to Start a Re-Bath Franchise in 2026

Re-Bath franchise startup costs run $258K–$561K for a full-service bathroom remodeling franchise covering tub-to-shower conversions, walk-in accessibility remodels, and complete bathroom renovations.

Key takeaways

• Total estimated startup cost: $258,000–$561,000 (full-service bathroom remodeling franchise)
• Franchise fee: $65,000
• Ongoing royalty: 5–7% of gross sales
• Full bathroom renovation scope — tub-to-shower conversions, walk-in accessibility remodels, complete gut-and-replace renovations
• Listed on the SBA Franchise Directory — eligible for expedited SBA loan processing

Re-Bath is a full-service bathroom remodeling franchise providing design, manufacturing, and installation of complete bathroom renovations. Unlike liner-over-existing systems, Re-Bath offers full demolition and replacement services — tub-to-shower conversions, walk-in shower buildouts, accessibility-focused remodels for aging-in-place, and complete bathroom redesigns. The brand was founded in 1979 and has grown to 100+ franchise locations across the US, making it one of the largest dedicated bathroom remodeling franchise systems. Prospective franchisees should review the current Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) under the FTC Franchise Rule (16 CFR Part 436).

Franchise overview

Re-Bath differentiates from liner-overlay systems by offering full bathroom renovation scope — demolition, plumbing modifications, waterproofing, and complete fixture replacement. The brand's proprietary DuraBath SSP polymer wall system provides the core product around which bathrooms are rebuilt. Re-Bath has a strong position in the aging-in-place and accessibility remodel niche: tub-to-walk-in-shower conversions for seniors are a high-demand, high-margin project type. The franchise provides design software, manufacturing relationships, marketing systems, and installation training.

Total startup investment (FDD via FTC 16 CFR Part 436)

Per the current FDD filed under the FTC Franchise Rule (16 CFR Part 436), total estimated initial investment for a Re-Bath franchise runs $258,000–$561,000. The wider service scope — including demo capability and full plumbing modifications — requires more truck/tool infrastructure and working capital than liner-overlay concepts:

• Franchise fee: $65,000
• Vehicle(s): $20,000–$75,000 (branded service trucks for installation crews and materials transport)
• Showroom or design center setup: $20,000–$80,000 (design center with product displays, wall system samples, fixture showroom — some franchisees operate from a small office or virtual model)
• Tools and installation equipment: $15,000–$40,000 (demolition tools, waterproofing equipment, plumbing fixtures, power tools)
• Initial product inventory: $20,000–$60,000 (DuraBath SSP panels, hardware, fixtures)
• Technology (design software, CRM, estimating, scheduling): $10,000–$25,000
• Signage and marketing materials: $10,000–$30,000
• Training (initial Re-Bath training program): $10,000–$25,000
• Grand opening marketing: $15,000–$40,000
• Working capital (3 months): $40,000–$80,000
• Permits, licenses, bond, and insurance: $10,000–$30,000
• Miscellaneous pre-opening costs: $15,000–$40,000

Ongoing fees

Re-Bath charges a 5–7% royalty on gross sales plus a marketing fund contribution. Full renovation project values are substantially higher than liner-overlay jobs — complete bathroom renovations typically run $8,000–$25,000, and tub-to-walk-in-shower conversions frequently run $5,000–$15,000. Higher average ticket values mean fewer jobs per month are required to reach revenue targets compared to lower-cost remodel services.

Financing options

Re-Bath is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA loan processing. At $258K–$561K, the investment range spans SBA Express and SBA 7(a) standard territory:

• SBA 7(a) / SBA Express loan: The lower half of the range fits within SBA Express (up to $500K) per the SBA 7(a) program. Higher-end buildouts require SBA 7(a) standard. 10-year terms for working capital; vehicle and equipment financing available.
• SBA 504 loan: For franchisees acquiring a design center or showroom, an SBA 504 loan provides fixed-rate long-term financing for real estate and major improvements.
• Equipment and vehicle financing: Service trucks, demo tools, and installation equipment can be financed separately over 3–5 years to preserve SBA loan capacity for working capital.
• Working capital line of credit: Covers crew payroll, product deposits, and marketing during revenue ramp-up.

ROI timeline

Re-Bath operators typically target breakeven within 18–30 months. High average project values ($8,000–$25,000 per complete renovation) provide strong revenue leverage — a modest number of jobs per month can drive substantial gross revenue. The aging-in-place tailwind is structural: US Census data shows the 65+ population growing steadily, and tub-to-walk-in-shower conversions are among the most-requested accessibility modifications. Job referrals compound over time in tight-knit residential communities. Markets with older housing stock and higher homeownership rates have the best addressable demand.

Who's a good fit

Re-Bath suits owner-operators with construction, remodeling, or home improvement service management backgrounds. Installation crews — typically 2-person teams — are hired. The franchisee manages in-home sales consultations, design, project management, and customer relations. Financial benchmarks typically require net worth of $250K+ and liquid capital of $80K+. Operators with strong in-home sales skills and construction project management experience adapt fastest. The higher average ticket value rewards consultative selling — customers investing $10,000–$25,000 in a bathroom renovation require trust-building and design capability, not just price quoting.

Apply for franchise financing

ClearValue Lending works with home improvement and bathroom remodeling franchise operators on SBA 7(a), SBA 504, equipment financing, vehicle financing, and working capital lines. Apply for franchise financing at Find my match. Your file routes to one matched lender.

What lenders look for in a Re-Bath franchise application

SBA lenders underwriting a Re-Bath application ($258K–$561K) evaluate the full-service bathroom remodeling model against SBA SOP 50 10 7 creditworthiness criteria. Key underwriting factors:

• Project pipeline DSCR — signed contracts, not leads: Bathroom remodeling DSCR is modeled on a 12-month pro forma of completed projects and collected revenue, not on the size of the quote pipeline. Lenders understand that remodeling leads convert over 30–60 day sales cycles and require conservative completion-rate assumptions. The SBA minimum 1.15× DSCR must be demonstrated on completed-and-paid project volume — which lenders stress-test by reducing projected AHV and increasing assumed unsold ramp months.
• Vehicle collateral at 60–80% advance: Branded service trucks are a significant cost component ($20K–$75K) and serve as meaningful collateral. Lenders advance 60–80% on new vehicles and 50–70% on used vehicles, factoring a depreciation schedule into residual collateral value. Vehicle financing is typically structured separately from the SBA 7(a) to preserve loan capacity for working capital.
• State contractor licensing as disbursement condition: Re-Bath projects that involve plumbing modifications — tub-to-shower conversions, fixture replacements — require a licensed plumber in most states. Lenders require evidence that the franchisee or a subcontractor holds the required contractor and plumbing licenses for the service territory before fund disbursement. Unlicensed work creates legal exposure that directly impairs the lender's collateral position.
• Aging-in-place market tailwind as DSCR support: US Census Bureau data shows the 65+ population growing steadily — a structural tailwind for tub-to-walk-in-shower conversions, the highest-demand Re-Bath project type. Lenders respond positively to operators who can document their territory's senior homeowner demographics as a demand narrative supporting the revenue pro forma.
• 15–20% equity injection: On $258K–$561K total investment, lenders require 15–20% equity injection — approximately $39K–$112K in documented borrower funds. The equity must be injected at or before loan close. Operators at the lower range may qualify for SBA Express (up to $500K), which has the same equity requirements but faster approval timelines.

Sources

• Re-Bath is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA loan eligibility review. — SBA Franchise Directory
• SBA 7(a) standard loans go up to $5M; SBA Express covers up to $500K — the lower Re-Bath investment range fits Express, larger buildouts fit 7(a) standard with 10-year working capital and 25-year real estate terms. — SBA 7(a) Loan Program
• SBA 504 loans provide fixed-rate long-term financing for owner-occupied commercial real estate and major equipment — applicable to Re-Bath franchisees acquiring a design center or showroom. — SBA 504 Loan Program
• All franchise cost and fee disclosures are governed by the FTC Franchise Rule (16 CFR Part 436) requiring a Franchise Disclosure Document be delivered at least 14 days before signing. — FTC Franchise Rule — 16 CFR Part 436
• FDIC data shows SBA 7(a) and equipment financing are the dominant capital structures for home remodeling service franchises in the $250K–$600K investment range. — FDIC Small Business Lending Survey

Frequently asked questions