Aging-in-Place Bathroom Remodeling in Hillsborough, CA

Safer Bathroom in Hillsborough: Free In-Home Consultation

Where to focus first

Hillsborough homes vary widely, and many have more than one bathroom. The best plan puts safety features where they are used every day. This page covers design priorities, the Town’s permit process and where to find help.

With more than one bathroom, pick the one used daily and the one a guest or caregiver would use. Then work through this list:

  • A shower that can be entered without a step, or with a very low threshold.
  • A bench or built-in seat, with the top at 17 to 19 inches.
  • Grab bars at the toilet and shower, mounted 33 to 36 inches high.
  • A water-temperature limit of 120°F, with a pressure-balance or thermostatic valve.
  • Lighting that stays on at night along the path from the bedroom.

The aging-in-place bathroom guide gives the reference sizes from the 2010 ADA Standards. Those standards are required for public buildings, not private homes.

Permits through the Town of Hillsborough

The Town’s Building Division issues permits. It says permits are needed for renovations of spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, and for plumbing and electrical work. Permit types are Building, Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical.

Applications are made through the Town’s eTRAKiT portal, and the Town accepts electronic submittals only. Contractors register with a Hillsborough business license, a current CSLB license and proof of insurance. Some projects also need a Planning application, so ask early. Inspections are scheduled by phone at (650) 375-7411.

A permit also brings code checks. California requires water-conserving fixtures on single-family alterations under a permit, and alarm requirements are verified at final.

Recent Axiom walk-in showers

Walk-in shower with built-in bench, slide-bar handheld and frameless glass
Walk-in shower with built-in bench, slide-bar handheld and frameless glass
ADU walk-in shower with linear drain and slide-bar handheld, San Jose
ADU walk-in shower with linear drain and slide-bar handheld, San Jose
Walk-in shower with linear drain next to a double vanity, Fremont
Walk-in shower with linear drain next to a double vanity, Fremont
Primary bathroom with open walk-in shower and freestanding tub, Los Gatos
Primary bathroom with open walk-in shower and freestanding tub, Los Gatos

Bathrooms recently built by Axiom Renovation: walk-in showers with low curbs or open entries, linear drains, handheld showers and a built-in bench.

Planning around your house

We do not assume what is under the floor. Before promising a curbless shower, we find out whether the bathroom sits on a slab or a raised floor, and whether framing allows the shower area to be recessed. Bathrooms on upper floors need extra care, because a recess affects the joists below. A wider doorway and a shower large enough for a helper are easier to add where the plan allows.

If wheelchair use is possible later, a 60-inch turning circle and a 32-inch clear door are the usual targets. An occupational therapist (OT) can help you decide what you need.

Help for older adults near Hillsborough

We did not find a town-run senior center for Hillsborough, so start with county resources.

Countywide help starts with San Mateo County Health’s Aging and Disability Services, the local Area Agency on Aging. Its Aging and Disability Resource Connection takes information and referral calls at 888-762-2372. Rebuilding Together Peninsula lists grab bar installation among its typical repairs. It serves income-eligible homeowners who live in the home as their primary residence, and its number is (650) 366-6597.

Process

Our Bathroom Remodeling Process

Step 1

Initial Consultation

We begin with a thorough initial consultation to understand your needs, assess your space, and discuss your vision, budget, and timeline.

Step 2

Planning and Design

At Axiom Renovation, we understand that the planning and design phase of a bathroom remodel is crucial to its success. Our dedicated project managers will work closely with you to understand your goals, design ideas and budget for the project.

Step 3

Material Selection

We guide you through selecting high-quality materials that fit your design and budget, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.

Step 4

Demolition and Preparation

Careful demolition and preparation work are performed to ready the space for construction, minimizing disruptions and ensuring a clean work environment.

Step 5

Construction and Installation

Our skilled craftsmen handle the construction phase, including obtaining permits, scheduling appointments, and the actual construction and installation with precision, building the new space according to the approved design.

Step 6

Electrical and Plumbing Work

Licensed professionals conduct all electrical and plumbing work, ensuring everything is up to code and seamlessly integrated into the new bathroom.

Step 7

Painting and Finishing

We pay close attention to detail during the painting and finishing stage, ensuring all surfaces are properly prepared and beautifully finished.

Step 8

Fixture and Appliance Installation

We expertly install all fixtures and appliances, ensuring they function correctly and fit perfectly with the overall design.

Step 9

Final Touches and Clean-Up

Final touches are added, and a thorough clean-up is performed, leaving your new space pristine and ready for use.

Step 10

Final Walkthrough and Client Satisfaction

We conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure every detail meets your expectations and address any remaining concerns, ensuring your complete satisfaction.

Hillsborough Aging-in-Place Bathroom FAQ

Is a permit needed for a bathroom remodel in Hillsborough?

The Town lists renovations of kitchens and bathrooms among work that needs a permit, along with plumbing and electrical work. Call the Building Division at (650) 375-7411 to confirm your scope.

How do I submit plans in Hillsborough?

Through the Town’s eTRAKiT portal. The Town accepts electronic submittals only.

Can I have a curbless shower on a slab?

Often yes, once we identify the slab type and plan the drain and slope. Raised floors can be recessed between joists.

Can grab bars be fastened into tile?

Yes, into solid backing behind the tile. Plan the blocking before the wall is closed.

Are there resources for older adults?

Yes. Call the county Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 888-762-2372. Rebuilding Together Peninsula serves eligible homeowners at (650) 366-6597.

Who remodels aging-in-place bathrooms in Hillsborough?

Axiom Renovation designs, permits and builds safer bathrooms in Hillsborough, from grab bars and curbless showers to full remodels. Call 408-702-2022, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.

Sources: Town of Hillsborough Building Permits; Hillsborough Building Division; San Mateo County Health, Aging and Disability Services; Rebuilding Together Peninsula; 2010 ADA Standards; Civil Code 1101.4. This page is general information, not medical, legal or tax advice.

Safer Bathroom in Hillsborough: Free In-Home Consultation

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