We’ve put together the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to help you find answers to common questions asked by our clients.

Q: How long does it take?
A: Because your project is unique, this will vary for your particular project details. You can refer to the specific services pages to get a rough estimate on how long typical projects in that category may take.

Q: How much will my project cost?
A: It is difficult to arbitrarily provide budget ranges for projects. There are a myriad of factors which determine the cost to remodel your home. Selections like cabinets, counter-top, tile/stone, flooring and drywall texture are some of the variables which help
to determine a project’s cost. North Hills Building offers a free consultation and project quote. We don’t use any “high pressure” sales tactics and we’ll never try to put a pen in your hand to close a deal. Our “sales pitch” is our quality and our salespeople are our former clients. We encourage you to contact them.

Q: What about NHB’s insurance?
A: Yes, NHB is covered by both general liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance.

Q: Is NHB Licensed? Bonded?
A: Yes, NHB is licensed (# 955559) with the California State Licensing Board and is bonded as well.

Q: Do I need permits for my project?
A: Most remodel projects require permits. NHB will obtain the necessary permits from your local building department and will invoice the client for the cost of their permits. In most cities, permits range in cost from $ 200 for a bathroom remodel to $300 for a kitchen remodel. Room addition permits typically cost $ 500 – $ 1,000 and custom homes can range between $ 2,500 – $ 3,500 for permits.

Q: What if I don’t want to permit my project?
A: You should always permit your project. Any contractor advising against obtaining the required permit is not only breaking the law, but giving unwise counsel as well. The risks associated with performing a remodel without a permit are significant, as you could be required to demo the new work, even after it’s completed to expose the electrical, plumbing, etc. The permit process is designed to protect the homeowner. It is true that a permitted project takes a little longer to complete, but the overall impact to the homeowner is minimal, as North Hills Building will pull the permit and schedule all of the inspections.

Q: What is the best way to compare the various remodel quotes I have received?
A: This can be difficult. It is vitally important to ensure you are comparing like products, services and companies. Most legitimate, professional remodel companies strive to achieve a similar profit margin. That is to say, if there is a substantial price difference between two quotes, the variance most certainly lies in the details. For example: Contractor “A” does not have general liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, licensed team leaders and is not planning on pulling permits. These four factors alone can easily reduce the price for a construction project by 10%. Although the price is reduced, you as the homeowner are assuming great risk (personally) in hiring contractor “A”.

Here is another example: Contractor “B” uses “semi-custom” cabinets and is quoting these cabinets for your kitchen remodel. Although there are some quality “semi-custom” or “modular” cabinets available, they cannot be compared to true, high-end custom cabinets in quality or durability. Obviously “true” custom cabinets cost more than “modular” cabinets.

So ask these questions. It’s your project and your right to know.

Q: Many general contractors use their own, low hourly-waged employees to perform work like electrical, window installation, plumbing and drywall in an effort to lower costs. Is there a downside to doing this?
A: There are particular trades in the building industry which should only be performed by highly skilled individuals who possess a license in their respective trade. That is to say, the team leader for electrical should have an electrical licenses, not just a general
contracting license. This high level of training/licensing is not only important for a quality remodel, but because of the risks for fire and flood, any margin for error is unacceptable when it comes to the safety of you and your family.

Q: I have heard that many construction projects cost more than originally promised/anticipated. How does this happen?
A: It is against the law for a contractor to arbitrarily raise the price of the remodel during the project. There are some rare exceptions, however, when there are unforeseen conditions that are discovered during the course of the remodel. Some examples of these conditions would be the discovery of dry-rot, mold or termite damage. Another example would be the discovery of existing/previous work which is not safe or not to code.

One of the main sources of cost increases are “customer driven” changes or upgrades. The best way to minimize these unplanned price increases is to thoroughly research the material/design options prior to starting the project. Most people purchase a new car only after careful thought, consideration and research; the same should apply to your remodel!

Q: If a homeowner works full time, how do I provide access for the workers?
A: This is often the case during remodeling projects. Typically, we install a lock box on a water pipe or door, to which only NHB team members have access. Inside the lock-box is a house key. We try to place the lock-box in an inconspicuous location, so as not to draw attention to its location. NHB personnel are diligent about securing the house when we leave and we will treat your home as if it was our own.

Q: How much dust/dirt is created during a project?
A: Remodel projects can produce large amounts of dust/dirt. We make every effort to isolate the work area and limit the exposure to our clients. On vaulted ceilings, we use telescopic poles which help to secure the plastic to the ceiling and only open the plastic barrier for access/egress for our team members. Often times, we are able to provide access to the remodel area through a rear or side door. We have a built our reputation on being the cleanest remodel company in town, so rest assured, we will do everything we can to minimize the impact on you and your family.

If you have any other questions, feel free to Contact Us for more details.