1. How do I get started working with you?
Give us a phone call first (510-459-5502). We'll set up an initial meeting, ideally at the proposed site, to discuss the work you would like to have done. If we can meet your needs, we'll make a formal proposal and take it from there.
2. Will you do drawings or make suggestions?
We will make suggestions and can refer you to qualified architects or designers for professional drawings.
3. Who takes care of the building permits, inspections and city building issues?
We will typically take care of this for you, but we are happy to leave this to you if you wish.
4. What kind of training do your people have?
Most of our workers have done their early training with craftspeople in Europe and have more recent experience with construction companies in the US.
5. Do you have worker's compensation and liability insurance programs in place?
Yes, we care very much about the security of our workforce.
6. How would you describe the relationship amongst your workers?
Our workers have a very cordial, family-like relationship. They not only work together but have social relationships amongst each other outside of work, such as at family gatherings, church gatherings etc. This makes for a very friendly work atmosphere on the job.
7. Do you work with subcontractors?
Yes, we sometimes work with qualified subcontractors if the project is extensive or we are very busy.
8. How would you describe the relationship with your clients?
With most of our clients we develop a very friendly and trusting relationship. This, coupled with the quality of our work, results in many repeat clients for us.
9. What's the function of a general contractor in a home building or remodeling project?
The general contractor is an integral part of a team that includes designers, architects, engineers, and the client. The contractor takes input from the different members of the team and makes it happen through building the project. We're the driving force towards realizing the finished, physical project, bringing concept to reality. We're managers and administrators, and we bring in our own team of skilled and experienced technicians, plus necessary subcontractors, suppliers, and other specialty contractors if needed. We manage the budget and handle financial administration. Not only will your project meet State and local codes, we ensure that your home will be built to the highest standards.
10. What licenses must general contractors possess?
General contractors must have the State of California General Class B license. Another license is the Home Improvement Contractor (BHIC), which was recently introduced as a requirement of all contractors performing remodeling and other home improvement projects by the California State License Board (CSLB). An additional test must be taken for this license.
11. Are all general contractors licensed, bonded and insured?
State law requires us to be licensed and bonded. A one-person shop might get away without carrying insurance. But a company with even one employee must have workers compensation for employees. There is no specific requirement for liability. However, most good contractors have insurance.
12. What qualities should one look for when needing to hire a contractor?
The obvious traits are quality, craftsmanship, responsibility, responsiveness, good communication, and evidence that the contractor is a good team player. Less obvious but as important is the company structure Eit should be well organized, staff must be sensitive and respectful of the client's home, and they must demonstrate an ability to tune into a client's overall expectations for the project.
13. What kinds of projects do you do? Do you work in a specific style? What size projects have you done?
We're a traditional home builder that provides only the highest quality work and superior craftsmanship. Every custom home or remodel project is as unique as our clients. Therefore, we incorporate all the techniques, materials and know-how that we use all the time, in a new and unique way, to create custom homes tailored to fit our clients. Our regular team members and affiliated contractors provide us with the resources to handle any custom build home or remodeling project, of any size or style.
14. How long does it take to build a home?
We wish there were an easy, standard answer. Variables such as weather, time of year the project starts, size and style of the project, finishes and finish techniques, and overall complexity of the project affect how long a project will take. It is important your contractor be realistic and up front about the time your project will take, allowing you to plan accordingly. A successful project will depend upon realistic expectations on the part of both homeowner and contractor.
15. Do you bid on projects?
Most of our projects are negotiated contracts with realistic working budgets. We've been in this business for a long time and know that our clients value the quality of our work, responsiveness, and integrity. Typically homeowners will obtain two bids. While obtaining the bids is not difficult, evaluating them is where the homeowner usually falls short. There's a human tendency to go with the lowest bid without questioning why it is low. Nine times out of ten, the lowest bidder is not experienced or has purposely bid low to get the contract. In the end the client suffers because the quality of work is poor, the hidden costs add up, and the project takes longer than expected. In any bidding process, we take the time to understand the specific wants, needs, and expectations of our clients so our construction budgets are as accurate as possible. We take pride in our long standing relationships with our clients, built upon trust, honesty, and integrity.
16. We've been told we can save money by not hiring an architect. Is this advisable? Does your company do design work?
A design professional is an integral part of the building process. Not only will you benefit from their experience with the local planning commission and building departments when it comes time for City approval of your new home or remodeling project, they will assist you in designing spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, and tailored to your individual needs and preferences. While we are not designers, choosing rather to focus on the building/production phase of the project, we will gladly recommend excellent architects and designers we know and have worked with.
17. I want to work as my own general contractor. Is there any advice you can give?
We would caution the inexperienced homeowner contemplating working as their own general contractor. Too often the notion of saving money by "doing it yourself" can ultimately lead to higher costs and a longer completion time. Construction management and administration is often complex and challenging, therefore unless you have experience in this area, we recommend that your remodeling project or new home construction be handled by experienced professionals
