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18 Tips for Finding a Room Additions Contractor For Your Home Addition

18 Tips for Finding a Room Additions Contractor For Your Home Addition

February 28, 2022

Remodeling your home by expanding your space with additions is a very exciting but nerve-wracking process. Of course, you want to find a good contractor who can be trusted, can operate within your budget, and can construct to code. Remodeling your home is a serious investment, so you want to make sure you are hiring a reliable contractor who can bring you the best quality on schedule with your timeline. Don’t make the mistake of cutting corners on who you hire as your contractor, as you may think you’re saving money with a lower quote,but you may regret it when faced with errors, delays, and a poorly designed addition, which is more expensive to fix in the long run. For a home renovation project to run smoothly, you want a contractor who is well experienced and stress-free to work with. If you are looking for a room additions remodeling expert, look no further than Structura Remodeling, awarded the title of one of the Best Home Addition contractors in Los Angeles by Losangelesarchitects.org.

To help you be confident in your choice of contractor, here is a list of tips for securing one for your room additions projects:

1) CLEARLY OUTLINE AND DESCRIBE YOUR HOME REMODELING PROJECT

Make sure that you have a clear idea and outline of your home remodeling project before seeking out a contractor. This will allow you to receive the most accurate quotes from contractors as well as pick out ones with the most relevant experience and resources. The fewer adjustments or requests for changes you have later on in the project, the more money you can save by not having to go over budget, having to extend timelines, or having to redesign your project.

2) Ask Around for Referrals from Homeowners Locally and in Your Neighborhood.

Oftentimes there are other homeowners in your neighborhood or general vicinity who have had remodeling or renovation work done, and by asking around, they may be able to refer you to some of the best in the business. Contractors heavily rely on good and accurate client testimonials to show customer satisfaction and their experience, so it is always good to be referred to your contractor by someone else who is happy with their work.

3) Look at Their Online Reviews

If you are looking at contractors that haven’t done work in your neighborhood or area before, it is helpful to look at online reviews. Other customers who are either satisfied or dissatisfied with their contractor’s work are likely to leave reviews on the internet that have feedback making it easier for you to narrow down your choices. You will also be able to get a better understanding of the quality of their labor, materials, and workmanship which may help in your decision-making.

4) Don’t Be Discouraged By Busy Contractors

If you speak to a contractor who seems to be very busy and in high demand, while initially discouraging, this is actually a good sign. If the contractor is constantly working on projects and has a steady stream of business, this means that they are likely quality and reliable contractors. This may be a good choice, even if you have to wait a few months to be put on their schedule.

5) Go with Your Instincts

If you have a good gut feeling about a certain contractor, and feel comfortable with their skills and ability, they may be a good choice. A good relationship with your contractor is important.

6) Pick a Pro

Rather than opting to try and do your home renovation project yourself or within an experienced contractor, especially when it comes to room additions, it is almost always better to pick a professional. It is better to know your project will be completed well, on time, and on budget by putting your home into the hands of a pro.

7) Ask How Long They’ve Been in Business

Oftentimes, the longer a contractor has been in business, the more experienced and qualified they are. Don’t be afraid to ask how many years they’ve been on the job.

8) Review their Past Work

Always look at the contractor’s past jobs and projects to make sure their work and style align with your needs. You should be satisfied looking at the pictures on their website from previous clients’ homes.

9) Verify Insurance, Licensing, and Permits

Make sure your contractor has the proper licenses and government permits to legally do home construction work in your area, and that they have insurance to cover the cost of potential injuries on the job.

10) Ask About Check-Ins

Ask about how frequently you can expect to sit down with your contractor and check in on the progress of the job to make sure you are on schedule, budget, and everything is going according to plan.

11) Get a Written Contract

Make sure you have a written and signed contract with an agreement of your terms prior to starting your project and be sure to record all aspects of your job. Good contractors should have detailed contracts with information about financing and what happens in case you aren’t satisfied with the work.

12) Be Flexible on Price

While you may be trying to stay within a budget, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. It is better to pay a little more for a reputable contractor and get quality results than needing a replacement later on. Do the job right the first time.

13) Get the Details About Financing

Make sure you know exactly when to pay and how much you’re paying when it comes to up-front cost, financing, and interest before the job starts s you’re not blindsided by unexpected costs.

14) Know Exactly Who is Completing the Work

Make sure you know if your contractor or a subcontractor will be completing the work, and that you are comfortable and confident working with all parties involved.

15) Ask About Materials and Their Cost Estimate Up Front

You should be made aware of the choices of materials for all aspects of your project and why they are being chosen. You should be provided with options for upgrades or budget-friendly materials and approve them ahead of time.

16) Who Can you Expect in your Home While Work is done?

Will there be a renovation supervisor on site while work is being completed? You should have a point of contact on-site while work is performed to direct questions to.

17) Know the What-Ifs

What if there are unexpected problems with the renovation? Ask your contractor how they handle unexpected situations during remodels and how they may affect your timeline and budget.

18) Know What Happens if you are Unhappy with the Job

Ask about how the contractor will handle customer complaints and if they have any policies in place for making sure you are satisfied with their work before the job is over.

Contact Structura Remodeling for your free room addition cost estimate today!

Call Structura, the top Interior remodeling company in Los Angeles, for a free in-home design session.

Whether you want a complete home remodel, a room addition, or want to refresh and modernize your Kitchen or Bath. We deliver top-quality artistry on time and within budget—no Hidden Surprises.0% financing on approved credit.

Call Structura today. Start Living Your Dreams.

A free consultation is only a phone call away.

Structura Remodeling and Design Company

Call Today 1800-922-4613 for a free in-home estimate.

Structura Remodel and Design Company…Dream. Design. Build.

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Room Addition

Average Cost of Room Addition in Los Angeles

Average Cost of Room Addition in Los Angeles

February 14, 2020

Ready to create more living space in your home this year?

For your home, this New Year could mean a new living space. Have you found yourself dreaming about that romantic master bedroom suite, or perhaps a bathroom addition? Maybe it’s been an additional dwelling or ADU that you’ve been dreaming of. Whatever living space upgrade has been on your wish-list it’s important to have an idea of the average contractor quotes in Los Angeles.

Average cost of room addition

Los Angeles Room Renovation Cost Factors

There are a few key things to consider when researching the cost of room addition in Los Angeles

1. Room Size – The size of your room will dictate the cost of materials and labor necessary to complete a renovation. Once you know your room dimensions, you can estimate the pricing for flooring, cabinets, etc. This is where you have the most opportunity to control the budget. Whether you choose high-end, median-priced, or budget fixtures, cabinetry, and flooring will determine the pricing of your room remodel. The average budget for a room addition in Los Angeles is about $285.00 per square Foot.



2. Room Type – What type of room are you adding? A bedroom, family room or sunroom will cost less than a bathroom or kitchen because of the added expenses of electric, plumbing, and cabinetry and fixtures. The average cost of a mid-priced bathroom in Los Angeles is $22,000-$30,000. A high-end bathroom in Los Angeles is about $55,000-$75,000.

3. Room Level – Are you adding a ground floor addition to an existing room? Are you thinking of a stand-alone guest room or workspace? Maybe a She Shed? Each one has different requirements for foundation work and permitting.

4. Second Story Addition – IF you are planning to add a second story addition to your home prepare to double your budget. Building up is more expensive. You have a more complex demolition and need to address additional structural issues. It requires hiring an Engineer to draw the plans for adding support beams, the additional foundation work needed, rebuilding the roof, and where the staircase will go. You may also have to consider a temporary living situation while the construction is progressing. Its difficult to live in a construction zone and relocating until the new supports and roof is in place may be a more comfortable and safer option.

5. Los Angeles Trends – Know what’s going on in your neighborhood. If you plan to stay in your house for the next thirty years, then It’s ok to add on to your home’s square footage anything that make you happy. If you plan to sell within the next five to ten years, find out what additions are popular and highly valued in your neighborhood. Is everyone adding on Granny Flats or separate workspaces? Maybe the trend is large master bedroom suites or home theatres? Go to a few open houses or check with a local realtor. They should be happy to help. After all, you could be a future client.

6. Budget – Again, your choices will affect your budget. The square footage and the type of space you are building will determine your budget. Kitchens are more expensive than bedrooms. Second floor additions are more expensive than first floor additions. Flooring, fixtures, and finishing’s will add to the budget as well as your furnishings. Remember always to have a 10-15% contingency plan for unexpected expenses. For example, if you open up the walls and find plumbing or electrical that is not up to code it will needs to be replaced. This is common in renovation projects.

How to Feel Confident in Hiring a Contractor

Hiring a contractor can be a confusing process. You hear stories from friends and family about frustrating experiences they had in hiring the wrong contractor. Here is how to avoid the mistake of hiring the wrong contractor.

  • Check credentials- California has specific requirements for Contractors. Make sure that anyone you hire is licensed, insured, and bonded. Check online with the Contractors State License Board website. Also, if you are a member of Angie’s list, you can check with them.
  • Online review and referrals- Make sure the contractor has been in business for at least five years so you can check their track record with customers and the Better Business Bureau. Business owners can buy online reviews, so make sure they are from actual customers. Speak to neighbors and friends. Get referrals from satisfied customers.
  • Get three bids to compare. – The more specific you can be about your choices for cabinets, fixtures, flooring, the more accurate the bids will be. You have to be able to compare apples with apples. If you get a low-ball bid, ask the right questions to see what’s included and what’s not. What is their experience? Do they have licensed electricians and plumbers on staff?

Tips for hiring a Room Addition or Remodeling Contractor in Los Angeles

When you’re working with a Los Angeles local contractor, you’ll notice that companies have different ways of pricing their renovations. When remodeling your living space there are three components that will ultimately affect your quote:

  • the total square footage or size of the addition.
  • the fixtures and finishes that you’d like to see utilized within your new living space.
  • the building materials.


These elements are exactly why we offer free in-home consultations to assess room additions in Los Angeles.

If you commission a professional general contractor, who has expert experience with room remodel, the average cost of room addition in the Los Angeles area would be starting at $285.00 per square foot of added living space.

So, for example, if you got a permit to add 300 square feet of additional living space that investment is roughly around $60,000 before any final features are added to your new room. This investment will cover all the professional components of the renovation such as any additions to your home’s foundation, framing, windows and doors, insulation and roofing to match the existing house. The electrical work would be included as well but there could be some projected savings if your room addition is, for example, a breezeway, sunroom or garage conversion without the need for electrical outlets.

Average cost of room addition

This projection gives you a brand-new living space built professionally within your home. Now comes the steps you’ll need to take to fill that space with epic style while keeping price in mind. Did you know that we also offering financing for our clients? Just in case you’re looking for a way to make your renovation dreams come true, while honoring a budget.

With a room addition in Los Angeles, you’ll find that the two largest investments will be plumbing and electric. Make sure you are completely clear on your general contractor’s plans and layout for the additional living space so you can keep an accurate read of the price. The last thing to explore is your amenities. What type of flooring, windows, fixtures, and furnishing do you plan to include?

Once you’ve taken all these elements into consideration, you’ll have your average price range for a room addition in Los Angeles. As professional contractors, we suggest you budget between $40,000 and $80,000.00 to upgrade your living space. Remember when you invest in your home, you enhance your property value immediately and invest in your family’s future.

Happy renovating! If you like to have one of the team members from Structura Remodeling out to your home for a free in-house consultation

please reach 1-800-922-4613 out to us today.

https://www.structuraremodeling.com

Categories
Room Addition

Explore building a granny flat in Los Angeles

Explore building a granny flat in Los Angeles

December 10, 2019

The steps, the cost, and regulations of adding a granny flat to your Los Angeles home.

With Los Angeles real estate continuing to boom, we’ve found LA homeowners looking for creative ways to expand their living space and the solution for this has quickly become a granny flat or ADU. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of building a granny flat or ADU in California.

When considering the construction of a granny flat here are the top things you’ll want to explore before you put your contractor to work.

  • Los Angeles construction regulations
  • Project estimate
  • California Permits
  • Square footage of your backyard or if you plan to convert your garage into a granny flat, square footage of your garage.
  • Do you plan to use this granny flat as a rental or in-law unit?
Cost of a lower-end bathroom remodel

But, first, before we dig deeper into these details let’s make sure we have a clear idea of the purpose of a granny flat in Los Angeles.

Here’s the download, a granny flat or ADU “accessory dwelling unit” is designed for one to two people, a granny flat is a self-contained living area usually located on the grounds of a single-family home. A granny flat can be a detached remodel, or it can be attached to your home. It is sometimes called a granny flat because it is a popular way for Los Angeles families to accommodate their aging parents. This is designed

Now that we’ve got a better sense of the terminology let’s explore some more granny flat details.

Los Angeles granny flat remodeling regulations

Under California state law, when working with a contract to build your granny flat of ADU to attach this remodel to the main house you’ll be limited to a maximum of 1,200 square feet or half the size of the existing residence, whichever is smaller. Detached granny flat units or garage renovations can’t be larger than 1,200 square feet.

Permits for your Los Angeles granny flat

Dan Bertolet with Sightline Institute shared some exciting stats about permits for granny flat construction in Los Angeles, “Prior to 2017, Los Angeles was permitting 100 to 200 ADUs per year. In 2017, ADU permits leaped to 2,326, and then in 2018 they nearly doubled to 4,171, accounting for one fifth of all permits. In contrast, in the years before 2017, ADU permits comprised a mere 1 percent of the total”

So clearly, LA is loving this granny flat ADU construction trend. When working with your contract they will support you in with the permit process to ensure that you have what you need to legally renovate your granny flat in Los Angeles.

Cost/estimate for your Los Angeles ADU

The most cost-effective way to approach a granny flat or ADU construction project would be to remodel an existing structure such as your garage or perhaps a pool house. If you have an existing structure your contractor will provide you an estimate of between $75,000 and $120,000 for the project. Identifying the right Los Angeles based Remodeling Company will be key in creating your granny flat with ease.

Uses for your granny flat

So, here’s the download, a granny flat is a wonderful solution if you’d like to rent space to supplement your costs without having someone living inside your main house. Also, in California, granny flats are widely referred to as in-law units, a space where you can have elderly parents or relatives live while still maintain your privacy. In today’s Los Angeles real estate market, it is certainly on-trend to create community living experiences…a granny flat could be the perfect fit.

Keeping up with the remodeling trends in Los Angeles means you must design…dream…build! Let the team at Structura Remodeling support you. There is no job too small for our team with over 16 years’ experience. Claim your free in-home consultation and let’s talk granny flats.