Construction and Remodeling FAQ

If the structure and location work for you, remodeling or adding on usually costs less and keeps what you like about the house. Building new makes sense when the existing structure has serious problems or the lot allows a much better plan. Compare home remodeling and new construction.

The address, a short list of what you want to change, any plans or photos you already have and an idea of your budget range. If you have a survey, soil report or old permits, bring them too. Book the visit here.

Yes. We build from plans prepared by your architect, designer or engineer, and we like to review them early so cost and buildability are settled before the plans go to the city.

For foundations, excavation and exterior work, the dry months from May through October are easiest, since most rain falls between November and April. Interior remodels like kitchens and bathrooms can start any time of year.

Kitchen and bathroom remodels, additions, ADUs and new structures all need a building permit. Changes to walls, window sizes or the building envelope can add zoning or design review, and commercial work adds separate trade permits. Every Oakland building permit also requires a construction waste recycling plan.

Older East Bay homes can have brick foundations, which were common until about 1914, missing anchor bolts, weak cripple walls, crawlspace moisture and lead-based paint. We look for these before planning a remodel or an addition.

On most residential lots, yes. California allows accessory dwelling units, including detached backyard units and garage conversions, and cities must decide on a complete ADU application within 60 days. See ADU construction.

Yes. Along with homeowners and business owners, we work with general contractors who need a dependable crew for residential or commercial projects.

No. We work for private residential and commercial clients only.

We walk the finished project with you, write down anything that needs adjustment, close that punch list and go over your warranty. Then the site is cleaned and the space is yours. More in our process.