Yes. I can answer questions and also look at your project or problem via video chat using programs like Zoom or Skype. I can speak with your contractors, architects, and other personnel. On larger projects, I can fly out to talk with all players and inspect the property firsthand. I get lots of calls from former clients outside California regarding the work they are doing.

Deposits will vary from subcontractor to subcontractor depending on material expenses and other such things. Certain contractors, such as cabinet makers, normally get a larger payment upfront because they have large upfront material costs that need to be covered as part of a deposit. However, beyond the initial deposit, all other aspects of the job should be billed as completed. Depending on the type of billing that a contractor is doing, you either bill weekly, biweekly or monthly. In the contract signed by the owners, all items of work should be specified to be written out in billings and with a price that states the contractor has to bill according to the percentage of the work that is completed.

A set of plans must be drawn by the homeowner or the architect in residential jobs, and by an architect in commercial jobs. Those plans have to go to the building department to be processed to ensure that they are in compliance with all of the local building, zoning, and planning codes. The timeline depends on how backlogged the local building departments are and whether it’s a minor or major permit. As a licensed construction service, we can help you obtain  permits. 

Our enormous amount of experience ensures that every aspect of your job is done with trade specifications and high quality. Our motto in working with our clients is to give you the best possible construction experience and provide you with enough information to make wise decisions on how to proceed with your project and how to spend your time and money. We understand the enormity of the stress and anxiety caused by construction projects and will work with you to minimize that through knowledgeable work and guidance so that you feel taken care of.

Liens are a claim or legal right against assets against a debt. In the case of a construction project, mechanic’s liens are a legal entity in which a contractor or supplier can put a lien against the property if they have not been paid. If they are not paid and the owner is responsible (not the general contractor) a subcontractor or supplier can foreclose on your project in order to perfect his lien. We can help you through this process.

The best way to find a competent, reliable contractor is to check with friends, neighbors, relatives and acquaintances. They can tell what you need to know firsthand. If you have no one to give you firsthand information be sure to get at least 3 good references. If you can go and look at their work and/or see photos that is always a good idea. You should always check that they are licensed, insured, and have no complaints against them. Your state’s department that regulates contractors is a good place to check. In California, it is called the California Contractors State License Board. (800) 321-2752

A consultant oversees the whole process, change orders, time scheduling, invoices and billings, releases of liens, and whatever else is needed to conclude your project.

A good construction consultant has many years of experience in all aspects of the construction process and can guide you through every step that you have to take, which will save you a lot of time, money, and frustration.

The best time is when you are just beginning to think about your construction project, so the consultant can answer questions and guide you in what you will be facing in all aspects of the construction project.