Q: Does Kodiak Construction have its own crew?
A: Kodiak Construction has its own production crew, but also utilizes trusted sub-contractors. This combined work force allows for maximum control of timing and quality by allowing Kodiak to scale up and down based on the size of the project as well as having the most skilled people on site as needed. Our tight list of subcontractors have worked with us for years and are treated as an extension of our crew.
Q: What role does Kodiak Construction play in the overall scheme of the project?
A: Kodiak Construction is the general contractor. The general contractor coordinates the project’s production, interactions with building inspectors, interfaces with design professionals and maintains compliance with a variety of regulatory agencies. It is also our responsibility to maintain open communication with the homeowner to keep the updated as to the status of the project and everyone’s responsibilities.
Q: Does Kodiak Construction provide a design/build process?
A: Yes, but not in the traditional way where the designer works under the umbrella of the contractor. I came to the realization that the homeowner is best served by having the designer be a separate business entity than the builder. There is a potential for a conflict of interest if the designer’s compensation comes directly from the contractor making it more difficult for the designer to voice concerns about the contractor’s actions. Kodiak Construction has several architects we can recommend that we have strong working relationships with where the project can benefit from the design/build collaboration of contractor and designer but each are independently responsible to the homeowner and not to each other.
Q: How do I get my permits?
A: The permit process varies depending on the complexity of the project and which jurisdiction the project is in. Most projects require some level of drawings, but they may be as simple as a cabinet layout for a kitchen remodel or as complex as to include full detailed blueprints with site surveys, soils reports, structural calculations, energy use designs and solar power reports. The process can be legally managed by an architect, licensed building contractor or the homeowner or homeowner’s representative. The permit process is usually both more time-consuming and expensive than homeowners expect, so the full process should be discussed early to avoid surprises.
Q: Can I stay in my house during construction?
A: This question is addressed on a per-project basis. Many homeowners choose to live in the house through kitchen and bathroom remodels. Larger and more disruptive projects, where second stories are added for example, I strongly advise the homeowners to move out. Under the best of circumstances, remodeling is a messy, disruptive and stressful undertaking. Not having a refuge from it can make it more so.
Q: How long can I expect my project to take?
A: Every project is unique. Once a project scope is determined, usually a ballpark timeline can be provided with refinements as the scope is clarified. A full kitchen remodel without structural work usually takes 10-13 weeks and whole house remodels can take up to a year or more, depending on the scale of the work.