Question 1

Are you licensed, bonded and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Art Life Builders holds an active California Class B General Building license (CSLB Lic. #1069428), carries a $25,000 contractor's bond, $2M general liability coverage and full workers' compensation. We provide certificates naming you as additional insured before work begins.

Question 2

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Los Angeles · Orange County · San Diego · Riverside. Most of our work sits within about 60 miles of our Van Nuys shop.

Question 3

How much does a remodel cost in Southern California?

Accepted Answer

As real ranges: bathrooms typically run $35k–$90k, kitchens $65k–$180k, detached ADUs $250k–$450k, and whole-home renovations $200/sq ft and up. Your proposal is line-itemed so you can see exactly where the money goes.

Question 4

How long does permitting take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the jurisdiction. Simple over-the-counter permits can clear in days; ADUs and additions in LA typically take 6–14 weeks through plan check. We submit, track and respond to corrections for you.

Question 5

Do you handle design, or do I need an architect?

Accepted Answer

We work both ways. We have in-house design and drafting for most remodels and ADUs, and we partner with licensed architects and structural engineers when a project calls for it.

Question 6

Can we stay in the house during construction?

Accepted Answer

Often yes. We phase work, build dust containment, protect floors and set up temporary kitchens where needed. For down-to-studs work we usually recommend relocating.

Question 7

How do payments work?

Accepted Answer

A permitted schedule of progress payments tied to completed milestones — never a large deposit up front. California law caps the down payment at $1,000 or 10% of the contract, whichever is less, and we follow it.

Question 8

What warranty do you offer?

Accepted Answer

One year on all finishes and fixtures, and ten years on structural workmanship, in addition to any manufacturer warranties.

The things people ask before they hire us.

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