Room Additions in Los Angeles for Home Remodeling

Your family is growing, you are still living in the same old house but can't afford to move. You are thinking about adding a new room, enlarging your already too small closets and perhaps adding a bathroom as well. You need more space, but how hard is it to add more space? How do you know if you even have the option to extend your existing home?

The first step is to meet with a licensed general contractor, one with experience in building home additions. A room addition is a very common way to get the extra space that you desire.

The second step would be to meet with an architect to create a set of detailed plans. The architect works with the contractor and he/she will know the structural engineering that the city requires with regard to the set backs and permits needed for this project. These setbacks are usually 5-6 feet from the side of the property and 10-15 from the back.  The front cannot be more than the houses in your neighborhood. Based on your land and property location of the city you in, there are calculations and restrictions. Your architect and contractor will be able to help with this. Once you have an "approved by the city" set of plans necessary permits will be pulled and construction can begin.

If the addition is 500 feet or less you will avoid an increase in property tax as well as some increased sanitation fees. However, if you decide that you need more space or a complete second story remodel you should be aware of changes to your property taxes as well as supplemental taxes like school fee tax

An average new addition includes new footing and foundation, framing, roofing, plumbing, electrical, insulation, dry wall, stucco and paint inside and out and can take 3 months or more. This includes all inspections by the city.  In addition, the existing electrical panel inside the house may need to be upgraded to a larger one that can handle the new electrical requirements. The water heater may also need to be replaced and upgraded. These are extra expenses that should be taken into consideration.

Again, choosing the right contractor will make this process a relatively easy one. At Remodeling California we have the expertise to help you make the decisions that will give you the new space that you need. Please give us a call at 800-723-9946 for a free estimate or visit our website to see testimonials from satisfied customers. You can also fill out the contact information page and we will be happy to give you a call. We look forward to hearing from you.

The Remodeling California Team