Questions and answers
What homeowners usually ask before, during and after a remodel or new build. If yours isn’t here, call (302) 598-7072.
Getting started
What kinds of projects do you take on?
Custom homes, whole-home renovations, additions, kitchens, bathrooms, basements, in-law and primary suites, aging-in-place updates and work on historic houses. We also handle commercial fit-outs. See all remodeling services.
Where do you work?
Throughout Delaware, from Wilmington and Brandywine Hundred to Dover and the beaches, and in Chester and Delaware counties in Pennsylvania, including the Main Line. The service area page lists the towns.
How early should we contact you?
Earlier than most people think. Design and permitting usually take longer than construction for smaller projects, so reaching out three to six months before you want work to start keeps options open. For custom homes and large additions, start a year out if you can.
What happens at the first consultation?
We visit the house, walk the rooms involved and talk through goals, budget range and timing. You’ll leave with a clear idea of how we would approach the project and what the next step would be.
Design and cost
How much will our project cost?
It depends on scope, size, the condition of the house and the finish level. Our pricing page and budget planner give honest planning ranges for the work we do.
Do you charge for design?
Yes. Design is covered by a separate design agreement with its own fee, agreed in writing before any drawings start. It pays for measured drawings, plans, selections and engineering where needed.
Can we work with our own architect or interior designer?
Yes. We can join a project as the builder while design is underway, price the drawings as they develop, and coordinate selections with your designer.
When do we get a final price?
At the end of the design phase. You receive a line-item construction proposal priced from your drawings and selections, with written allowances for anything not yet chosen.
During construction
Can we live in the house while you work?
Often, yes. For kitchens, baths, basements and most additions, we seal off the work area and plan around your routine. Whole-home renovations sometimes require moving out for part or all of the project; we will tell you during design.
Who will we deal with day to day?
One project manager runs your job, coordinates crews and trades, schedules inspections and keeps you updated. You won’t be the go-between for anyone.
What if we want to change something mid-project?
Changes are possible. Each one is priced and its schedule effect explained before the work happens, and nothing changes without your written approval.
How do you protect the rest of the house?
Floor protection, dust barriers, covered returns and a cleaned-up site at the end of each day. In older homes built before 1978, we follow lead-safe work practices.
Permits and rules
Who handles permits?
We do. Permits are filed with the right jurisdiction, whether the City of Wilmington, New Castle, Kent or Sussex County, or your Pennsylvania township, and we schedule every inspection.
Our house is in a historic district. Can we still remodel?
Usually, yes. Interior work is often unaffected, while exterior changes may need design review first. We check the requirements during feasibility and prepare the drawings the review needs. More on historic home remodeling.
We’re near the coast. Does that change anything?
It can. Homes in flood zones may face elevation and construction requirements, especially for additions and substantial renovations. We confirm the rules for your lot before design gets far.
Book a consultation
Tell us about your home and what you want to change. We’ll follow up to talk through goals, budget range and timing, then set a time to visit.
- Prefer to talk?
- (302) 598-7072
- Where we work
- Delaware and southeastern Pennsylvania