Question 1

Is ESV Prime Construction licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ESV Prime Construction is fully licensed with the California Contractors State License Board (License #1065151, B General Building Contractor classification). We carry comprehensive general liability insurance, workers' compensation insurance, and are bonded to protect our clients. Our licenses and insurance certificates are always available for review, and we maintain all required coverage throughout every project.

Question 2

What areas do you serve in Los Angeles?

Accepted Answer

We serve all of Los Angeles County within a 200-mile radius of our headquarters. Our primary service areas include Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Burbank, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Culver City, Encino, Venice, Hollywood, Eagle Rock, Studio City, and surrounding communities. We have extensive experience working throughout LA and understand local building codes, permit requirements, and architectural styles specific to each neighborhood.

Question 3

Do you provide free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer complimentary, no-obligation consultations and estimates for all our services. During your free estimate, one of our experienced project managers will visit your property, discuss your vision and requirements, assess the scope of work, and provide a detailed written estimate. This typically takes 60-90 minutes and includes preliminary design suggestions and budget guidance. Call us at (818) 883-8753 to schedule your free consultation.

Question 4

What are your payment terms?

Accepted Answer

Our payment structure is designed to be fair and protect both parties. Typically, we require: 10% deposit upon contract signing to secure your project date and begin permitting, 35% at project start/demolition, 35% at rough-in completion (framing, plumbing, electrical), and 20% upon final completion and your satisfaction. We accept checks, wire transfers, and major credit cards. We never require full payment upfront, and final payment is due only after you've inspected and approved the completed work. For larger projects, we can customize payment schedules to align with specific project milestones.

Question 5

What warranty do you offer on your work?

Accepted Answer

We stand behind our craftsmanship with comprehensive warranties: 1 year on all labor and workmanship, 2-5 years on major systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) depending on components, manufacturer warranties on all materials and fixtures (typically 1-10+ years), and lifetime warranty on structural work. We also provide a 10-year warranty on foundation and framing for new construction and additions. Our warranty covers any defects in workmanship or materials, and we respond quickly to any warranty issues. Additionally, we maintain relationships with all our suppliers and subcontractors to ensure warranty claims are handled efficiently.

Question 6

How long will my project take?

Accepted Answer

Project timelines vary based on scope and complexity. Typical durations include: Kitchen remodel: 4-8 weeks, Bathroom remodel: 3-6 weeks, Room addition: 3-6 months (including permits), ADU construction: 6-12 months (including permits), Whole home remodel: 4-8 months, Second-story addition: 6-10 months. These timelines include design, permitting, and construction. LA permit processing typically takes 4-12 weeks depending on project complexity. We provide a detailed schedule during your estimate and keep you updated throughout the project with weekly progress reports.

Question 7

Can I stay in my home during the renovation?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the scope of your project. For most kitchen and bathroom remodels, room additions, and single-room renovations, you can typically remain in your home with some lifestyle adjustments. We'll establish dust barriers, maintain one functioning bathroom if possible, and work to minimize disruption. For whole home remodels or major structural work, temporary relocation may be necessary for safety and to allow faster, more efficient completion. We can help you understand what to expect and provide recommendations for temporary housing if needed. Many of our clients find that major remodels go smoother when they stay elsewhere for the duration.

Question 8

Do you offer design services or just construction?

Accepted Answer

We offer comprehensive design-build services, handling every aspect of your project from initial concept to final completion. Our design services include: space planning and layout optimization, 3D renderings and visualizations, material and finish selection guidance, architectural plans and engineering, permit drawings and submissions, and design consultations with our in-house design team. We can work with your architect or designer, or we can manage the entire design process in-house. Our design-build approach streamlines the project, improves communication, and often results in better outcomes and cost savings compared to traditional design-bid-build methods.

Question 9

Who handles the permits for my project?

Accepted Answer

We handle all permit applications, processing, and inspections as part of our comprehensive project management. This includes: researching applicable building codes and zoning requirements, preparing and submitting permit applications to LADBS, coordinating plan checks and revisions, paying permit fees (reimbursed as part of your project cost), scheduling all required inspections, handling inspection corrections if needed, and obtaining final approval and sign-off. Our extensive experience with Los Angeles permitting means we know how to prepare applications correctly the first time, reducing delays. Permit costs vary by project but typically range from $1,500-$10,000 for most residential projects. We include estimated permit costs in your initial proposal.

Question 10

Can I choose my own materials and finishes?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We encourage client involvement in material and finish selections. We offer: access to our preferred vendors with contractor pricing, guided shopping trips to showrooms and supply houses, material samples brought to your home for review, expert advice on durability, cost, and aesthetics, assistance with matching existing materials, and coordination of all material orders and deliveries. You have complete control over all material selections within your budget. Our design team can provide recommendations based on your style preferences, budget, and intended use of the space, but final decisions are always yours. We can work with materials you purchase directly, or we can procure everything for you at our contractor rates.

Question 11

What if I want to make changes after the project starts?

Accepted Answer

We understand that clients sometimes want to make changes as they see their project come to life. We handle change orders professionally: all changes are documented in writing with clear scope and pricing, we provide a change order estimate before proceeding, you approve the change order and any timeline adjustments, we incorporate the changes into the project schedule, and final billing reflects the original contract plus approved change orders. While we're flexible, we do recommend finalizing decisions before construction begins when possible, as changes during construction typically cost 20-40% more than if incorporated in original plans. Some changes aren't feasible once construction reaches certain stages. We'll always be honest about what's possible and cost-effective.

Question 12

How will you keep me updated on project progress?

Accepted Answer

Communication is a cornerstone of our service. We provide: a dedicated project manager as your single point of contact, weekly progress meetings (in-person or virtual), daily project log with photos accessible online, text/email updates for important milestones, immediate notification of any issues or changes, and access to our online project management portal. Your project manager's cell phone is available for questions or concerns. We also schedule milestone meetings at key points: pre-construction meeting, mid-project check-in, pre-drywall walkthrough, final walkthrough and punch list. We believe in transparency and keeping you informed every step of the way.

Question 13

What do your services typically cost?

Accepted Answer

Construction costs vary significantly based on scope, materials, and complexity. Here are typical ranges for common projects in Los Angeles: Kitchen remodel: $25,000-$150,000+ (average $50,000-$75,000), Bathroom remodel: $15,000-$75,000+ (average $25,000-$40,000), ADU construction: $150,000-$450,000 (average $250,000-$350,000), Room addition: $50,000-$200,000+ depending on size, Second-story addition: $200,000-$500,000+, Whole home remodel: $150,000-$750,000+ depending on size. These ranges include materials, labor, permits, and project management. We provide detailed, itemized estimates that break down all costs so you understand exactly what you're paying for. Every project is unique, which is why we offer free consultations to provide accurate pricing for your specific needs.

Question 14

How can I save money on my renovation?

Accepted Answer

We help clients maximize value while maintaining quality. Here are our top cost-saving strategies: Keep plumbing and gas lines in existing locations (moving them is expensive), Choose stock or semi-custom cabinets instead of fully custom, Select mid-range materials that offer good durability at lower cost, Limit structural changes to reduce engineering and labor costs, Schedule your project during our less busy season (winter) if possible, Handle demolition yourself if you're capable and willing, Purchase your own appliances and fixtures (we'll install them), Prioritize must-haves vs. nice-to-haves to stay within budget, Plan thoroughly before starting to avoid costly mid-project changes, Consider phasing large projects over multiple years. That said, we don't recommend cutting corners on structural work, waterproofing, or electrical/plumbing systems. These are investments in your home's safety and longevity. We'll always advise you on where it's smart to save and where it's worth spending more.

Question 15

Do you offer financing options?

Accepted Answer

While we don't provide direct financing, we can help you explore several options: Home equity loans or lines of credit (HELOC) - typically best rates, Cash-out refinancing - access home equity at current mortgage rates, Construction loans - for larger projects, Personal loans - for smaller renovations, FHA 203(k) loans - purchase and renovation financing, CalHFA ADU Grant Program - up to $40,000 for ADUs. We can also work with your timeline if you need to save up between project phases. Many clients choose to phase larger projects: for example, doing kitchen and baths this year, then doing flooring and painting next year. We're happy to discuss phasing strategies that work with your budget and financing timeline.

Question 16

Are there hidden costs I should know about?

Accepted Answer

We believe in transparency and include comprehensive cost estimates, but here are potential additional expenses to be aware of: Permit fees (we include estimates but final costs may vary), Structural surprises discovered during demolition (old plumbing, foundation issues), Code-required upgrades (electrical panel, plumbing, seismic), Temporary housing costs for major remodels, Storage fees for furniture during renovation, Appliances and fixtures (unless included in contract), Landscaping restoration after construction, Furniture and décor for newly renovated spaces, HOA fees for architectural review (if applicable), Utility bill increases during construction. Our contracts clearly state what's included and excluded. During the estimate process, we discuss potential surprise costs based on your home's age and condition. We also recommend including a 10-15% contingency in your budget for unexpected issues. If we encounter something unexpected, we always contact you before proceeding with solutions and pricing.

Question 17

What are the requirements to build an ADU on my property?

Accepted Answer

Los Angeles has ADU-friendly regulations, but requirements include: Your property must be zoned for residential use, ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are typically allowed, Minimum 4-foot setbacks from rear and side property lines, Must meet building codes for habitable space, Utility connections required (water, sewer, electric), Parking is not required for most ADUs near transit, Fire sprinklers required in many cases (connected to main house system), Maximum height restrictions (typically 16-25 feet depending on zone). Most single-family residential lots in LA qualify for an ADU. During your free consultation, we'll assess your property and confirm what's possible. We handle all zoning research, setback verification, and permit applications as part of our comprehensive ADU services.

Question 18

How long does it take to build an ADU?

Accepted Answer

A complete ADU project typically takes 8-14 months from start to finish: Design and planning: 6-10 weeks, Permit processing: 6-10 weeks (up to 60 days by law), Site preparation: 1-2 weeks, Foundation: 2-4 weeks, Framing and roofing: 4-6 weeks, Rough-ins (plumbing, electrical, HVAC): 3-4 weeks, Inspections: 1-2 weeks, Insulation and drywall: 2-3 weeks, Interior finishes: 6-10 weeks, Final inspections and approval: 1-2 weeks. Using pre-approved ADU plans can reduce design and permit time by 4-8 weeks. Weather, permit corrections, material availability, and inspection schedules can affect timelines. We provide realistic schedules and keep you updated on progress throughout your ADU project.

Question 19

Can I rent out my ADU? What income can I expect?

Accepted Answer

Yes! ADUs can be rented out long-term or short-term in Los Angeles (subject to local regulations). Rental income potential varies by location and size: Studio ADU (400-600 sq ft): $1,500-$2,500/month, One-bedroom ADU (600-800 sq ft): $2,000-$3,500/month, Two-bedroom ADU (800-1,200 sq ft): $2,500-$4,500/month. Premium neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, West LA, and Santa Monica command higher rents. Short-term rentals (Airbnb) can generate even more income but may have additional restrictions. Keep in mind: rental income is taxable, you'll need landlord insurance, local rent control may apply, HOA rules may restrict rentals, you're responsible for maintenance and repairs. An ADU investment typically has an ROI of 8-12% annually from rental income alone, plus you gain property value increase. Many homeowners fully pay off their ADU construction costs within 7-10 years through rental income.

Question 20

How do utilities work for an ADU?

Accepted Answer

ADUs typically connect to your main house utilities, but several options exist: Electrical: Connected to main panel (may require upgrade to 200-amp service), submeter possible for tracking ADU usage separately. Plumbing: Connects to existing water line and sewer, may require separate water heater, submeter possible for separate water billing. Gas: Connects to existing gas line if available, many ADUs go all-electric to simplify. HVAC: Independent system for ADU climate control, mini-split systems are popular for efficiency. Internet/Cable: Can extend from main house or separate service. Most ADU projects include utility connection costs in the overall bid. Panel upgrades, if needed, typically cost $2,000-$5,000. Submetering allows you to bill tenants separately for utilities, though it adds $2,000-$4,000 to the project cost. We assess your existing utility capacity during the estimate and include any necessary upgrades in our proposal.

Question 21

Why are permits necessary for my renovation?

Accepted Answer

Building permits serve several critical purposes: Ensure work meets current building codes for safety, verify proper structural integrity, confirm electrical work is safe and to code, validate plumbing meets health standards, document improvements for property records, protect you from contractor negligence, maintain your home insurance validity, avoid issues when selling your property, ensure resale value isn't negatively impacted. Working without required permits can result in: fines of $100-$500 per day, stop work orders halting your project, retroactive permit fees (2-3x normal costs), difficulty selling your home, insurance claim denials, property tax complications. While permits add time and cost to projects, they're ultimately for your protection. As a licensed contractor, we always pull the proper permits. This protects you and ensures your investment is done right.

Question 22

How much do permits cost in Los Angeles?

Accepted Answer

LA permit costs are calculated based on project valuation and complexity: Building permit base fee: $500-$5,000+ based on construction value, Electrical permit: $150-$1,000, Plumbing permit: $150-$800, Mechanical (HVAC) permit: $150-$600, Plan check fee: 65% of building permit fee, Energy compliance: $100-$300. Example project permit costs: $25,000 kitchen remodel: $800-$1,500, $50,000 bathroom addition: $1,500-$3,000, $150,000 room addition: $3,000-$6,000, $250,000 ADU: $5,000-$10,000. Additional fees may include: zoning clearance, geotechnical review for hillside properties, environmental review for certain areas, re-inspection fees if corrections needed. We include estimated permit costs in every proposal and handle all applications and fees on your behalf. Actual permit costs are pass-through expenses you'll pay as part of your project.

Question 23

I have unpermitted work from previous owners. Can you help?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We regularly help homeowners legalize unpermitted work. The process involves: Thorough inspection and documentation of existing work, Assessment of what meets current code vs. what needs correction, Preparation of "as-built" plans showing current conditions, Application for retroactive permits with LADBS, Making required corrections to bring work up to code, Scheduling inspections to verify compliance, Obtaining final approval and closing permits. Important considerations: Retroactive permits cost 2-3x normal fees, Some unpermitted work may need to be redone if not to code, Structural work may require engineering reports, Open permits show up in property records and affect sales, We recommend addressing this before listing your home. Many homeowners are surprised that old unpermitted work can often be legalized without major reconstruction. We've successfully resolved unpermitted additions, ADUs, garage conversions, and remodels for many LA clients. Call us for an assessment and honest evaluation of your options.

Question 24

What is the inspection process during construction?

Accepted Answer

Building inspections ensure work meets code requirements. Typical inspections include: Foundation inspection - before pouring concrete, Framing inspection - after framing is complete, Rough plumbing inspection - before covering pipes, Rough electrical inspection - before covering wiring, Rough mechanical inspection - HVAC installation, Insulation inspection - before drywall, Fire safety inspection - for required fire protection, Final building inspection - completed project walkthrough, Final electrical inspection - after all electrical work done, Final plumbing inspection - all fixtures installed and working. Inspection timing: We schedule inspections at appropriate construction phases, Inspector visits take 30-60 minutes, Results are usually same-day or next day, Corrections must be made if issues found, Re-inspection scheduled after corrections. We handle all inspection scheduling and coordination. Our experience means we usually pass inspections the first time. If corrections are needed, we make them promptly at no additional cost (unless due to approved plan changes). All required inspections must pass before final project completion.

Question 25

How long will I be without a kitchen during remodeling?

Accepted Answer

Most kitchen remodels take 4-8 weeks from demolition to completion. Timeline breakdown: Demolition: 1-3 days, Plumbing and electrical rough-in: 3-7 days, Drywall and painting: 5-7 days, Cabinet installation: 3-5 days, Countertop template and installation: 7-14 days (separate visits), Flooring installation: 2-4 days, Appliance delivery and installation: 1-2 days, Backsplash tile: 2-4 days, Final fixtures and hardware: 1-2 days. Factors that affect timeline: Permit processing time (we start only after permits are approved), Custom cabinets take longer than stock (8-12 weeks lead time), Natural stone countertops require careful templating, Unexpected issues discovered during demo, Material back-orders or shipping delays. During renovation: We can set up a temporary kitchen in another room with microwave, coffee maker, and mini fridge. Many clients eat out more or use a grill. We work efficiently to minimize disruption. The investment in a beautiful new kitchen is worth the temporary inconvenience!

Question 26

What are the best options for walk-in showers?

Accepted Answer

Walk-in showers are the most popular bathroom feature in 2026! Options include: Curbless showers - level entry for accessibility and modern look, Partially enclosed - glass panel on one side, fully open on other, Fully enclosed - complete glass surround for steam and spray containment, Tub-shower combination - walk-in shower with soaking tub, Wet room - fully waterproofed bathroom with open shower area. Features to consider: Glass enclosure - frameless, semi-frameless, or framed, Shower doors - pivot, sliding, or doorless entry, Bench seating - built-in tile or teak benches, Niche storage - recessed shelving for shampoo and soap, Multiple shower heads - rainfall, handheld, body sprays, Flooring - slip-resistant tile in various sizes and styles, Drainage - traditional center drain or linear drain. Popular dimensions: Minimum functional size: 3 ft x 4 ft, Comfortable size: 4 ft x 6 ft, Luxury size: 5 ft x 7 ft or larger. Walk-in showers typically cost $3,000-$15,000 depending on size and finishes. We'll help you design the perfect shower for your space, needs, and budget.

Question 27

What ventilation do I need for bathrooms?

Accepted Answer

Proper bathroom ventilation is crucial for preventing mold, moisture damage, and odors. California building codes require: Exhaust fan or operable window in all bathrooms, Fan must vent to outside (not into attic), Minimum 50 CFM for bathrooms up to 100 sq ft, Additional 10 CFM for each toilet or shower over 100 sq ft, Humidity-sensing fans recommended for moisture control, Timer or humidity sensor switch for automatic operation. Best practices: Size fan properly for bathroom volume, Locate fan between shower and toilet if possible, Use quiet fans (1.0 sones or less) for comfort, Install directly over shower when possible, Ensure proper ductwork - insulated, rigid, shortest path to exterior, Include LED lighting for energy efficiency. Common upgrades: Humidity-sensing automatic fans, Combination fan-heater-light units, Low-noise, high-CFM models, Bluetooth speaker exhaust fans. Proper ventilation prevents: Mold and mildew growth, Paint peeling and wood rot, Foggy mirrors, Humidity damage to cabinetry, Unpleasant odors. We design proper ventilation into every bathroom remodel, selecting appropriate fans and optimizing placement for your specific layout.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Project Planning

Costs & Budgeting

ADU Specific

Permits & Regulations

Kitchen & Bathroom

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