Remodeling Questions, Answered

It depends on the scope. Cosmetic updates like painting, cabinet refacing, or replacing fixtures typically don't require permits. However, any work involving structural changes, moving walls, relocating plumbing or electrical, or adding square footage does require permits from the City of Los Angeles or your local municipality. We handle all permit applications and inspections as part of our process.

Standard permit timelines in LA vary by project type and current city workload. Simple permits can be approved in a few days via the city's online portal. More complex projects — additions, ADUs, structural work — can take 4–12 weeks or longer. We submit permit applications early in the process so approvals don't delay your construction start.

California state law and LA city ordinances allow most single-family homeowners to build at least one ADU and one JADU on their property. Key rules include: ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are generally permitted, setbacks are typically 4 feet from side and rear property lines, and owner-occupancy requirements were suspended through at least 2025. We handle all ADU permitting and can advise on what's allowed for your specific lot.

Yes — unpermitted work must be disclosed to buyers in California and can complicate or kill a sale. Lenders may refuse to finance a home with significant unpermitted work. We strongly recommend permitting all work that requires it. If you have existing unpermitted work, we can often help you retroactively permit it.

Our process has five stages: (1) Free consultation and site walk, (2) Design and 3D rendering, (3) Permit application and material selection, (4) Construction, and (5) Final walkthrough and punch list. We assign a dedicated project manager to your job who communicates with you throughout. See our Our Process page for a detailed breakdown.

A standard kitchen remodel typically takes 6–10 weeks from construction start, depending on scope. This includes demolition, rough work (plumbing, electrical, framing), drywall, cabinets, countertops, tile, and appliances. Lead times on custom cabinets or specialty materials can extend this timeline, which is why we order materials before demo day.

A full bathroom remodel typically takes 3–5 weeks. A primary suite bathroom with a custom shower, freestanding tub, and double vanity may take 5–7 weeks. We try to keep at least one functional bathroom available in your home throughout the project.

ADU timelines vary significantly by type. A garage conversion ADU typically takes 3–5 months from permit approval to completion. A detached new-construction ADU typically takes 6–10 months. Permit approval itself can add 2–4 months depending on the city and project complexity.

For most kitchen and bathroom remodels, yes — though there will be dust, noise, and limited access to the remodeled space. For whole-home renovations or projects involving major structural work, temporary relocation may be more comfortable. We discuss this during the planning phase and do our best to minimize disruption.

Kitchen remodel costs in the SFV typically range from $35,000–$45,000 for a mid-range update to $80,000–$150,000+ for a full custom renovation with high-end materials. The biggest cost drivers are cabinet quality, countertop material, appliance selection, and whether any layout changes are involved. See our Cost Guide for detailed tier breakdowns.

A standard bathroom remodel in the SFV typically runs $18,000–$35,000. A primary suite bathroom with a custom shower, freestanding tub, and premium tile can run $40,000–$80,000+. Guest bathrooms and powder rooms are generally less expensive. See our Cost Guide for more detail.

ADU costs in LA vary by type. Garage conversions typically run $80,000–$150,000. Detached new-construction ADUs typically run $200,000–$400,000+, depending on size, finishes, and site conditions.

California law limits contractor deposits to 10% of the total contract price or $1,000, whichever is less, for home improvement contracts. We follow this rule. Subsequent progress payments are tied to project milestones and are outlined clearly in your contract before work begins.

Our contracts include a detailed scope of work, materials specifications, payment schedule tied to milestones, project timeline, permit responsibilities, change order process, and warranty terms. We review the contract with you before signing and encourage you to ask questions about anything that isn't clear.

Changes are handled through a written change order process. We document the change, the cost impact, and any schedule impact before proceeding. We never do additional work without your written approval. Minor substitutions (like a tile being out of stock) are discussed with you before any change is made.

Yes. We stand behind our workmanship. Specific warranty terms are included in your contract and vary by project type. We encourage you to ask about warranty coverage during your consultation.

We have in-house crews for most trades, including carpentry, tile, and general construction. For specialized work like electrical and plumbing, we work with licensed subcontractors we've vetted and worked with for years. All subcontractors are licensed and insured, and Green Tech remains your single point of contact and accountability throughout.

Absolutely. Our Portfolio and Gallery pages feature photos of completed Green Tech projects — all original work, no stock photos. You can also read reviews from past clients on our Reviews page. We're happy to provide references upon request.