FAQ

How does the remodeling process work?

We discuss your project in detail and come up with the initial design in 10-15 business days. We go over the details and make necessary changes. Final design is presented to you with 3D(separate service) renderings to help you visualize the project. Once you approve we work on the permit drawings and submit to the city for approval. All changes requested by city are done absolutely free.

How much does a permit drawing cost?

Our rates are the most competitive in the industry. Permit drawings depend on the project and can cost from $1500 to $150000 based on project size and complexity. Plans and Structural Analysis are the major design costs associated with the permit plans.

How long do the permits take for approval?

Permit times vary by project complexity. Small projects can get the permits over the counter in 1 day. Medium size projects take 4-8 weeks and large projects may take 8-12 months, depending on cities work load.

How do I monitor project progress?

We provide you to leading edge technology to monitor your project. Every client gets their own login and we communicate using a single online portal. From design approvals to payments, you have full visibility of the project.

Do you provide construction estimates during design process?

Yes, as a complete Design-Build team our biggest advantage is to keep you on track with the finances. This helps you analyze your options during design time itself. We help you decide on what options to choose to make the remodel budget friendly.

Do you provide Interior Design services when we remodel?

Yes, We have Certified Interior Designers. Interiors services can be added to your project at a very competitive rates.

How do we make it a stress free experience?

We are a Design-Build firm and keep the entire process on track. To make it easy we start with a flat rate design fee. We help you get the permits and will provide you with our construction bid. Time, budget and quality are the 3 key features of any project and we try to keep them in check.
From permits to construction, we help co-ordinate every part of the process, so our clients get a one stop shop.

Will Open Remodel match the lowest price bid I have?

As much as we like competitive bidding, we certainly will match any standard company bids. Unfortunately we do not match unrealistic bids and recommend you also to not fall for them. Low bids come with low quality material and workmanship. Poor lumber, cheap construction material and unskilled labor. Even though 2 new homes may look the same but they don't stay the same after a few years. Leaks, creaks, insulation and many other issues start creeping up. Do you know by just dropping the drywall thickness to another level can result in cheap construction upfront but lot of money lost in insulation related costs over the years. Plus the extra noise you can hear not only from the outer elements but even from adjacent rooms. Now that's cheap construction and you can't even imagine how many things can be downgraded to look like a perfect bid followed by long lasting headaches.

How are city comments addressed?

Our dedicated design team handles all city comments and provide timely responses to any city comments. City comments are addressed in 10-15 business days. Some responses may take longer based of the complexity of comments.

Do I need to be involved during permitting process?

Most of the permit process is handled by our design team. We only request information from the owners when required. Common examples include request for ownership papers, information on any previous remodels, etc.

How are construction payments scheduled?

Construction payments are progress based: Demolition, Foundation, Framing, Roofing, Rough Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing, Finish Installation, Painting/Flooring, etc.
Not all milestones will be applicable to all projects.

Can I make changes during construction?

Its very common to make changes during construction process. Some changes may need city approvals. For example: Moving location or size of a window, adding lights to the building, etc. These changes are done via a Change Order and any additional expense is send over to you for approval.

What is a Change Order?

Change Order is a formal way to execute any change that may not be part of the approved permit set. In case you decide to replace your water heater or change the size of your window during construction, any extra expense due to the change is provided to you for approvals. Some changes may need extra time and effort to get formal approvals from the city.

Will I get help buy finished materials?

Yes, we have a set of vendors who provide quality service and material. We help you purchase doors, windows, flooring, cabinets, counters, heating and cooling systems.
Our aim is to help our clients with a stress free execution of the project.

Can I live in the home during construction?

Yes, if the scope of work allows certain parts of the home to be functional. We completely isolate the work area by using commercial grade plastic.
It may also be possible to occupy the home for small kitchen and bath remodels.

Do I need to manage any construction workers?

No. As General Contractors, its our job to manage every day construction activity. In case of any questions we expect you to call the project manager assigned to the project or our office.

Can I buy finished products on my own?

Absolutely. We never try to push the finished selections to our clients. Feel free to work with any vendor. Make sure they deliver on time as it may delay the construction.

Is there a good time to start construction?

We work year round and take on new projects all the time. Construction may slow down during severe rains but we resume work as soon as possible.

Do I get a Project Manager?

Yes, every project is handled by a dedicated project manager. The project manager should be your single point of contact and will be working along the entire OR team to successfully complete the project.

How can I remotely monitor my project?

Sometimes it may be a requirement to handle the project remotely due to travel or other reasons. Just notify us and we make sure we send you progress reports and pictures on every milestone.
Under normal conditions too, you may not need to visit the site frequently.

What is included in Rough Construction?

Rough Construction, at a high level, includes foundation, framing, roofing, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and drywalls. To put it in simple terms it includes all the work where the clients have no finished products selection in picture. From wall paint and beyond is where the finishes are installed: Cabinets, Counters, Flooring, Lights, etc.

How long will the construction take?

Small bath and kitchen remodels take 3-6 weeks.
Room additions take 4-12 weeks.
Full home construction takes 6-12 months.

Will there be a downtime during construction period?

While we strive to work on the project everyday, there will be periods when we are waiting for inspections, supplies, etc. During those times there will be occasional days of no or partial work. Also different teams(Plumber, Electricians, etc) work independently. They may or may not dependent on each other. We schedule the teams in the most efficient ways but there will be occasional downtimes when the teams switch projects. These days are built in our project schedule and accounted for. Delays due to 3rd parties(PGE, Utility Companies, City Inspections, etc) are not in our control and we try to update clients as soon as we are notified.

Will there be daily updates provided during construction?

We provide weekly updates on projects. Updates are also provided on major milestones and inspections. Clients are free to check with their project manager on as need basis.

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