1. Pull City permits. Yes, you will more than likely need a permit.  It’s the law in just about every jurisdiction in Southern California. THIS IS FACT.  This is a good thing though.  It’s usually not expensive compared to the cost of the project. The permit is a “Onetime fee”.  This fee covers the cost for a local City Building Inspector to come to your home or place the construction is occurring and he or she will look over and inspect a few critical things such as plumbing, electrical, water proofing methods, structural issues etc….to make sure it’s being done to meet City Codes.  It does protect the home owner from shady contractors.  Not to mention…..the City makes a few bucks (they need it).

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2. Make sure that YOU the Home owner pays the permit fees (and get the receipt).  It should NEVER be included in or part of the Contractor’s bid. All permits should be pulled in the Contractor’s Name.  We as Contractors should always take responsibility for what we do.  This is one of the reasons you hire us. This is what you pay us for as well.
 

3. Let the Contractor carry all of the responsibility for meeting ALL City Codes and receiving a “Final” sign off by the City inspector on your permit.

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4. Only use licensed, Bonded and Insured Contractors.  If you choose not to, beware of your unintended risk. You do lose some leverage in pursing the person doing your work if a problem does occur and he or she doesn’t make it right for you. The law is very clear, any job you do that’s $500 or more the Contractor must be licensed.  That’s important.  Look, if they’re good…..they should be licensed anyway.  If not, their handymen. It's important to understand the difference.

• Who do you want creating your Dream Remodel or Master Bathroom or even beautiful Custom Kitchen?

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5. Photograph the Contractor’s License or at least get the license number and check it out with www.cslb.ca.gov.

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6. Get a copy of the Contractor’s Bond.  Essentially it’s an insurance policy for the homeowner in case you are wronged in some way. Now, you have a course of action to pursue and get compensated up to $12,500.

7. Get a copy of the Contractor’ Liability and Workers Compensation Policy.  This all should be available at www.cslb.ca.gov.
 

8. Contractors should never put their debris in YOUR trash cans.  They should always factor hauling it away. They also should never use your bathroom for any reason.  They should have some sense of class. Have you heard of “Portable Potties”?
 

9. Any changes to the original contract must be in writing and well understood. NO exceptions.

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10. Get a bunch of references and check them out or even see the work in person.  That’s ideal.

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11. Almost done, make sure you’re comfortable with the person you choose.  They will be in your home for some significant period of time. Never let the Contractor take your house keys off your property. Make sure he or she provides a secure lock box to securely store the key away on your property.  It should be left there at all times so you also have full access.

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12. Last but not least the best of luck to you! Please let us know if we can be of help, or if you have any questions.