Frequently Asked Questions

Our standard payment structure is as follows:

• 30% due upon signing the contract
• 30% due at the start of the project
• 40% due upon completion of the project

This structure ensures a fair balance between upfront costs and final payment upon your satisfaction with the completed work.

Yes, Build Dog Construction is fully licensed and insured in both Maryland and Washington, DC. We carry comprehensive general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage to protect both our clients and our team.

We're happy to provide proof of insurance and licensing upon request.

Project timelines vary depending on the scope and complexity of the work. Here are some general estimates:

• Bathroom remodels: 2-4 weeks
• Kitchen remodels: 3-6 weeks
• Basement finishing: 3-8 weeks
• Home additions: 8-12 weeks
• Whole-house renovations: 12+ weeks

We'll provide you with a detailed timeline during the estimation process.

Yes, we stand behind our craftsmanship. Build Dog Construction provides a 1-year warranty on all labor and installation. Additionally, most materials and products come with manufacturer warranties that we'll pass along to you.

If any issues arise after project completion that are related to our workmanship, we'll address them promptly at no additional cost.

Most renovation projects require permits, especially those involving structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, or changes to your home's footprint.

As part of our service, we handle the entire permitting process for you, including:

• Determining which permits are needed
• Preparing and submitting permit applications
• Following up with local authorities
• Scheduling required inspections

This ensures your project complies with all local building codes and regulations.

We understand that sometimes plans change during a renovation. If you want to modify the project scope after work has begun, we follow this process:

1. Discuss the requested changes with you
2. Provide a written change order with associated costs and timeline impacts
3. Proceed with the changes only after receiving your signed approval

This transparent approach ensures there are no surprises in terms of cost or timeline.

Build Dog Construction proudly serves the entire DMV area, including:

Not sure if we serve your area? Contact us to find out!

We work with you to select materials that match your style preferences, budget, and functional needs. Our process includes:

• Initial consultation to understand your vision and requirements
• Providing material samples and options within your budget range
• Recommending durable, quality materials appropriate for your project
• Sourcing from reputable suppliers with proven track records

You can either select materials on your own, or we can guide you through the process. We're also happy to work with materials you've already purchased.

In renovation and construction, unexpected issues can arise once work begins. Our approach to handling these situations includes:

• Thorough pre-construction inspections to minimize surprises
• Immediate communication with you when issues are discovered
• Presenting multiple solution options with associated costs
• Transparent documentation of all changes and approvals
• Building contingency buffers into project timelines and budgets

Our experience allows us to quickly address unexpected challenges while keeping your project on track.

Important note: After demolition, when previously hidden areas become visible, there is a possibility of discovering concealed defects (such as water damage, mold, electrical issues, or structural problems). In such cases, there may be an increase in the project cost to properly address these issues. We will always document these discoveries with photos, explain the necessary repairs, and provide transparent cost estimates before proceeding with any additional work.

Clear communication is essential for a successful renovation. Our communication process includes:

• A dedicated project manager as your main point of contact
• Weekly scheduled progress updates (in person or virtual)
• Daily site photos sent via email or text
• Prompt responses to questions (within 24 hours)
• Access to our project management software where you can view schedules, documents, and updates

We adjust our communication style to your preferences, whether you prefer calls, texts, emails, or in-person meetings.

We take cleanliness seriously throughout the construction process:

• Daily cleanup of work areas
• Dust containment systems to minimize spread to other areas of your home
• Regular removal of construction debris
• Proper disposal and recycling of materials
• Final deep cleaning upon project completion

Our goal is to leave your home cleaner than when we started, with minimal disruption to your daily life during construction.

Yes, we work with a trusted network of specialized subcontractors for certain aspects of projects:

• All subcontractors are licensed, insured, and have long-standing relationships with our company
• We personally vet all subcontractors and stand behind their work
• Your project manager oversees all subcontractors to ensure quality and consistency
• We handle all subcontractor scheduling and coordination

This approach allows us to bring in specialized expertise while maintaining a single point of contact and accountability for you.

Yes, we're committed to sustainable building practices and can incorporate energy-efficient options into your project:

• Energy-efficient windows and doors
• Enhanced insulation solutions
• Energy Star certified appliances
• Water-saving fixtures
• LED lighting systems
• Smart home technology for energy management
• Sustainable or recycled building materials

We can discuss the potential long-term savings and environmental benefits of these options during the planning phase.

While we don't provide direct financing, we partner with several reputable financial institutions that specialize in home improvement loans:

• We can refer you to trusted lenders with competitive rates
• Options include home equity loans, renovation loans, and unsecured personal loans
• We provide detailed project estimates suitable for loan applications
• Our payment schedule can be aligned with loan disbursement timelines

We're happy to discuss financing options and help you find a solution that works for your budget.

Yes, we offer comprehensive design services to help bring your vision to life:

• Initial design consultation to understand your needs and preferences
• 2D floor plans and layout options
• 3D renderings to visualize the finished space
• Material and finish selection assistance
• Collaboration with architects for structural changes (when needed)
• Design-build approach that ensures seamless transition from design to construction

Our design services can be included as part of your overall project or provided as a separate service.

We have extensive experience working with HOAs and condo associations throughout the DMV area:

• We help prepare and submit all required documentation for HOA approval
• We're familiar with common HOA restrictions and requirements
• We can attend HOA meetings with you or on your behalf if needed
• We ensure all work complies with association guidelines
• We coordinate with building management for scheduling, elevator usage, and other logistics

Our goal is to make the HOA approval process as smooth as possible while ensuring your renovation meets all requirements.

Different types of projects may be better suited for certain times of year:

• Interior renovations can be done year-round, though winter is often ideal as it's our less busy season
• Exterior projects (decks, additions) are best started in spring or fall when weather is mild
• Foundation work is typically avoided during winter freezes and spring thaws
• Roofing projects are ideal in late spring through early fall
• HVAC upgrades are best done in spring or fall between peak usage seasons

We can work with your schedule and preferences while advising on the optimal timing for your specific project.

Proper preparation helps ensure a smooth construction process:

• Clear the work area of furniture, decorations, and personal items
• Create a clear path from the entrance to the work area
• Secure or remove valuable and fragile items from adjacent areas
• Make arrangements for pets to be kept away from construction zones
• Discuss daily schedules with your project manager (work hours, access needs)
• Consider setting up a temporary kitchen for kitchen renovations
• Prepare alternative bathroom arrangements for bathroom renovations

We'll provide a detailed pre-construction checklist specific to your project to help you prepare.

Whether you can stay in your home during renovation depends on several factors:

• Project scope - Whole-house renovations typically require temporary relocation
• Essential facilities - Renovations affecting all bathrooms or the entire kitchen may make staying impractical
• Health considerations - Dust, noise, and chemical sensitivities may impact your decision
• Project duration - Longer projects may be more disruptive to daily life

We can discuss your specific situation and help you decide whether staying or relocating temporarily makes more sense. For projects where you stay, we implement dust barriers, maintain access to essential facilities, and work to minimize disruption.

Your satisfaction is our top priority. If you're not completely satisfied:

1. Communicate your concerns to your project manager immediately
2. We'll schedule a walkthrough to review the issues in person
3. We'll create a written plan to address all concerns
4. Necessary corrections will be made promptly at no additional cost
5. A final inspection will ensure all issues have been resolved to your satisfaction

Our projects aren't complete until you're fully satisfied with the results. We stand behind our work and are committed to making things right.