Expert Services
Having an expert in your corner.
Consultation
Whether your building a new home or remodeling an existing one, there are three outcomes we all hope to achieve:
A smooth process with minimal conflicts along the way.
Cost staying within the proposed budget and free from unexpected cost increases.
Achieving a final product that meets our expectations.
My services are designed to help you achieve these outcomes. Just as a legal expert can provide guidance in legal matters, having a construction professional by your side can be invaluable during your construction project. With proper documentation, watchful oversight and clear communication, I’ll make sure that you avoid the common pitfalls that can derail your build.
A challenging part of interviewing contractors and tradespeople is that the evaluation process coincides with their sales presentation. As a homeowner, your goal is to get what insight you can into the character and reliability of the individual to feel comfortable enough to enter into an agreement.
I’ll help you by:
Developing questionnaires specific to each trade, designed to probe deeper and facilitate a fair comparison of candidates in terms of their experience, expertise and overall professionalism.
Encouraging a thorough approach by meeting with several candidates and follow-up with their references to gather more insights.
Reviewing bids and proposals to pinpoint key criteria that will assist in making informed decisions.
Assistance with Interviewing and Hiring
Assistance with Contracts
and Legal Requirements
Architectural drawings will define how your project will look and what materials it will be made with, but it’s your contracts that determine how the project will go; mentally, emotionally and financially.
I can help you with:
Reviewing contractor’s bids and contracts to ensure clarity and fairness, helping you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs.
Drafting and negotiating contract terms that safeguard your interest and ensure that all necessary provisions are included to protect you throughout the project.
Creating progress based payment schedules that will keep you in financial control and at minimal risk.
Making sure that all State legal requirements are met and insurance coverages are in place.
Assistance with Oversight and Representation
Once all the communication has taken place and the paperwork has been signed, it’s time for everyone to execute their respective roles. With the performance of the tradespeople and financial disbursements being the principal actors.
I support my clients by:
Helping coordinate and oversee the payment schedules.
Safeguarding against unwarranted price increases.
Serving as another set-of-eyes on the quality of materials and craftsmanship being used.
Providing guidance with ways to manage difficult conversations and uncomfortable requests.
Filling in essential information gaps, ensuring that they're well-protected and do not fall victim to the problems that arise from their unfamiliarity with the process.
Conflict Resolution
In construction, even with the best of intentions, challenges can arise.
Miscommunications, assumptions and financial disputes can unexpectedly derail a project.
If you’re a homeowner facing difficulties with your project, Perhaps I can help.
I’ve assisted numerous clients navigate their issues. My background as a General Contractor that gives me the understanding necessary to bridge the gap between differing perspectives and allow me to facilitate compromises that work for both sides.
However, there are times when conflict reaches an impasse, particularly if a contractor is reluctant to engage in discussions. In such cases, I can help you devise a proactive plan to mitigate the mental and financial strain of possibly terminating the working relationship.
The least desirable option is to seek court intervention to resolve a dispute. California law sets clear expectations for the conduct of both contractors and homeowners. Even in small claims cases, preparation is key. I can guide you on what the courts will expect and help you organize your narrative and supporting documentation.
Working with Unlicensed Contractors
While I strongly discourage hiring unlicensed tradespeople, I recognize that many individuals choose to do so for various reasons. Without legal protections in place, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks involved and to take measures to mitigate potential issues. Ensuring that all construction complies with the State Building Code is a responsibility that often requires professional expertise. I can help identify these issues for you and offer practical advice to minimize your exposure.
Not all Consultation Requires Hours of Commitment
Many of my clients have discovered the value of reaching out for quick questions or small concerns. Whether it’s just a few minutes of advice or a larger ongoing project, I’m here to help.
I’ve structured my fees on an hourly basis, making it easy for you to get the support you need without a big commitment. You can reach me directly by phone, text or e-mail, or by using the contact form on the Contact page.
Additional Services
Computer Design
Utilizing advanced design software, I can help visualize your project before construction begins. This service includes creating detailed layouts, exploring different design options, and making informed decisions about space planning and aesthetics.
