Home ยท FAQ
The questions people ask before they hire us.
Straight answers on cost, timelines, permits, and what it's actually like to have our crew in your house. If yours is not here, call or text (408) 667-4946 and ask a person, not a phone tree.
Price and payment
How much does a remodel cost in San Jose?
Every project is different. SVB's own starting points are around $30,000 for a kitchen and $15,000 for a bathroom, depending on size, materials, and scope. We give you a free, detailed estimate up front. See our cost guide for planning ranges.
What has the biggest impact on remodel cost?
Keeping plumbing, gas, electrical, and walls in their existing locations is the biggest way to control cost. Moving them is what drives budgets up. We steer clients toward spending on what is hard to change later (waterproofing, cabinetry, flooring) and choosing finishes that are easy to swap.
What happens if you find something behind the wall?
Your price is fixed for the agreed scope. Concealed damage or a change you request can change the work. We explain what was found or requested, the proposed correction and its cost, and get your written approval before proceeding with the additional work.
How much is the deposit, and how do payments work?
By California law, a contractor can't collect more than $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less, as a deposit before work begins. We hold to that cap. The payment schedule is in your written contract before you sign.
Time and process
How long does a remodel take?
A guest bath is usually two to four weeks on site, and a straightforward kitchen usually six to ten weeks on site once demolition starts. A primary suite or a whole-home remodel takes longer. The time depends on scope, selections and lead times. Permit time depends on whether the permit is issued over the counter or needs plan review.
How soon can I get an estimate after reaching out?
We reply the same business day. Requests sent after 3 pm or on a weekend get a reply the next business day. How long the written price takes depends on the site visit, how many selections are final, and whether plans are needed.
How do I get started?
Just reach out for a free, no-pressure estimate. Call or text (408) 667-4946 or fill out our contact form.
What information do you need from me to prepare a proposal?
The more we know up front, the faster and more accurate your estimate. It helps to know which spaces are in scope (which bathrooms, the kitchen, any flooring), whether you want to keep the existing layout or move plumbing and walls, and your finish level (standard, midrange or custom). Plans, photos or fixtures you have already chosen are a bonus. You do not need all of it to start, and we'll help you fill in the gaps.
Can we start planning before I move to the area?
Yes. Plans and selections can happen early and remotely, and we can handle permitting before you arrive, so construction can begin right when you're ready instead of months later. Starting early helps most when the home is vacant before move-in.
Do you handle permits and design?
Yes. We coordinate design, permits and trade work, so you have one experienced team from the first drawing to the final walkthrough.
Do I need a permit, and what are Title 24 and SB 407?
If your remodel involves electrical, plumbing, structural, or layout changes, a permit is required; purely cosmetic updates usually aren't. We coordinate the permits for the work. Two California rules commonly apply: Title 24 (the energy code, covering efficient lighting and ventilation) and SB 407 (updating older water fixtures throughout the home to low-flow standards). We build both into your plan from the start so they are never a surprise. See our permit guide for details.
Who you are hiring
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. We're licensed with the CSLB, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB #1050108), bonded and insured. We pull the required permits and follow local building codes, so your project is done by the book. You can verify the license on the CSLB site.
What warranty do you offer on your work?
Our contract warrants our labor for one year from the date the work is complete. During that year we repair, at no charge, defects in our own labor that you report in writing. This applies to contracts signed on or after October 6, 2026. See the warranty page for what is and is not covered. The materials, fixtures, and appliances we install also carry their manufacturer warranties, which pass through to you.
How do I choose the right remodeling contractor?
Look for a licensed and insured contractor (you can verify the license at the CSLB), real local references and reviews, a clear written scope, and a fixed price in writing for defined work. For repairs, ask how billing works before they start. Ask who you will work with day to day. With us, David and Tristan stay involved from the first walkthrough to the final check.
What areas do you serve?
San Jose, Campbell, Cupertino, Los Gatos, Milpitas, Santa Clara, Saratoga, Sunnyvale, Willow Glen, Almaden Valley and the South Bay. See all service areas.
Other jobs
Do you take small jobs and repairs?
Yes. We bill service and repair work for time and materials against a $650 minimum. See home repairs and small jobs.
Can I build an ADU on my San Jose property?
Often, yes. Whether a detached ADU, a garage conversion, or a junior ADU (JADU, a smaller unit built within your existing home's footprint, like converting part of a bedroom) fits best depends on your lot, budget, and goals. We build all three and coordinate the plans and permits. See our ADUs & additions page to learn more.
Do you work with property managers?
Yes. See our property managers page for the work we do for managers and the paperwork we send.
Ask the one we missed.
Call or text (408) 667-4946, or send it through the contact form. Your answer comes from someone who builds for a living, and we'll get right back to you.
Get a real number for this job
We come out, measure, and put a line-item price in writing. Free, and there is no obligation to use us.
- CSLB #1050108 · licensed and insured
- Serving San Jose and the South Bay
Prefer to talk? Call or text (408) 667-4946. Office hours: Monday to Friday, 7 am to 3 pm.