Your outdoor living project is one of the largest investments you'll make in your home. The firm you choose decides whether the experience feels clear and organized, or uncertain from start to finish. Before you sign anything, ask these seven questions. We've included how we answer each one, so you know exactly what to expect from us.
1. Are they licensed, and can you verify it?
Every California contractor must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. You can look up any license number on the CSLB website to confirm it's active and in good standing.
How JAC answersWe hold California license #1138328. Look it up anytime. We'd rather you check than take our word for it.
2. Do they design and build, or hand you off?
With a true design-build firm, the people who plan your space are the same team that builds it. That continuity is what keeps your finished project true to the design you approved.
How JAC answersOne team takes you from the first conversation through design, proposal and construction. You're never handed off to a stranger.
3. Will you see the plan before construction starts?
For larger projects, a professional design lets you approve your layout, materials and finishes on paper first. Ask what you'll see, and when.
How JAC answersWhen your project calls for it, you see a full design before anything is built, and you make changes on paper instead of in the ground. If your project doesn't need a full design, we'll tell you honestly.
4. Is the proposal detailed?
A clear proposal lists the full scope and investment before work begins. Vague line items are where surprises come from.
How JAC answersWe provide a very detailed scope of work. You'll know exactly what's included, what materials we're using and what your timeline looks like before you commit.
5. Who manages the build day to day?
Ask how your project is scheduled, who your point of contact is and how often you'll hear from them.
How JAC answersYou'll know who's on your site and who to call. We keep you updated throughout the build, and if something changes, you hear it from us first.
6. Can they show work like yours?
Look for completed projects similar in scope and style to what you want, ideally nearby.
How JAC answersWe build across the East Bay and the greater Bay Area. Ask us for projects like yours and we'll walk you through them.
7. How do they finish?
Ask what happens at the end. A firm that walks the finished project with you, and doesn't call it done until you do, is a firm that stands behind its work.
How JAC answersEvery project ends with a final walkthrough together. Our hardscape installations also come with a 1-year warranty.
Start with a conversation
The right firm will ask you as many questions as you ask them. Schedule a discovery consultation and we'll walk you through our design-build process and what your project could look like.
