How we work
A remodeling team that plans first
One project lead for the whole job: scope, design decisions, scheduling and the trades who do the work.
Process
Six steps, each one written down
Conversation
You describe the home and what you want to change. We ask about budget range and timing so expectations are clear early.
Site visit and scope
We look at the space, the structure of the house and any HOA, co-op or condo rules that apply, then write a scope of work.
Design and selections
Layout, materials and fixtures are agreed in writing before work is priced in full.
Written proposal
A written price and schedule for the agreed scope. Permits and any approvals are identified at this stage.
Build
One project lead coordinates the trades and keeps you updated. Some regulated work may require appropriately licensed specialty contractors.
Walkthrough
We review the finished work with you and resolve anything outstanding.
Planning checklist
Good questions before any New York renovation
General guidance for homeowners, whoever you hire. It is not legal advice; requirements depend on your home and address.
What to have ready
Before a consultation
- Photos of the room and the rooms around it, including ceilings and floors
- Rough measurements and any existing floor plans
- A budget range and a target start window, even if approximate
- Any HOA, co-op or condo renovation rules, if they apply to your home
- A short list of must-haves and nice-to-haves
Before you sign anything
Questions to ask any contractor
- Which licenses do you hold for this work, and where can I verify them with the issuing agency?
- Can you provide certificates of insurance for this project?
- Who will be on site day to day, and which trades are subcontracted?
- What is in the written contract: scope, schedule, payment stages and change-order process?
- Who applies for permits, and which inspections should I expect?
General guidance; every building differs
If you live in a co-op or condo
- Many buildings require board or managing-agent approval before work starts
- An alteration agreement may set working hours, deposits, insurance and noise rules
- Wet-over-dry rules can limit where a kitchen or bathroom may move
- Some buildings ask for drawings from a licensed architect or engineer
- Allow time for review: approvals can take weeks
Depends on the address and scope
Permit questions to ask
- Does this scope need a permit from the city or town building department?
- Will a licensed plumber or electrician need to file or sign off?
- Was the home built before 1978? Lead-safe work rules may apply to painted surfaces
- Are there landmark or historic-district rules for visible changes?
- How will the final inspection and sign-off be documented?
Licensing and scope
What we do, and what we do not
We take on interior remodeling: kitchens, bathrooms, whole-home interiors, basements, flooring, drywall and interior painting in Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island and Suffolk County. We do not take on structural work, additions, exterior work or new construction. Some regulated plumbing, gas and electrical work may require appropriately licensed specialty contractors.
Ready to talk about your project?
Call or email us to talk it through and arrange a consultation.