What does a general contractor do?
A licensed general contractor manages subcontractors, scheduling, inspections, code compliance, and project coordination. They hold the building permit and are responsible for all work meeting code. In California, a B-license covers general building.
How much does a general contractor cost in Los Angeles?
GC fees are typically 10–20% of total project cost, or built into a fixed-price proposal. For a $100K project, GC overhead is $10K–$20K. Design-build GCs like NP Line Design include management in the fixed price — no separate GC fee line item. You pay one number that covers all trades, coordination, permits, and project management.
What is the difference between a general contractor and a handyman?
A general contractor holds a California B-license, can coordinate 2+ trades, pull LADBS permits, and work on projects over $500. A handyman is limited to minor work under $500 per task and cannot pull permits or do structural work. Any project involving permits, structural changes, or multiple trades requires a licensed GC.
How do I verify a contractor's license in California?
Visit cslb.ca.gov and search by license number or name. Verify the license is active (not expired, revoked, or suspended), check the bond status ($25K minimum), confirm workers’ comp coverage, and review any complaint history. NP Line Design: CSLB #1105249, active B-license, bonded, workers’ comp verified.
What permits do I need for construction in Los Angeles?
Most projects require an LADBS building permit plus sub-permits for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Permit fees typically total 3–8% of project valuation. Plan check takes 4–12 weeks. Projects involving structural changes, additions, or new construction require architectural plans and PE-stamped engineering. NP Line Design manages all permit filing and inspections.
How long does construction typically take in Los Angeles?
Kitchen remodel: 8–12 weeks. Bathroom remodel: 6–10 weeks. Room addition: 4–8 months. Full home renovation: 4–12 months. Custom home: 10–20 months. Add 4–14 weeks for design and LADBS permitting before construction starts. Post-wildfire labor competition may extend timelines by 2–4 weeks in 2026.
What is the CEBC 50% threshold?
When renovation work affects 50% or more of a building’s work area, the California Existing Building Code requires the ENTIRE structure to comply with current building codes — not just the renovated portion. This hidden cost escalator can add $30,000–$80,000+ to your project. NP Line Design evaluates this threshold during the initial assessment, before you commit to a scope.
Should I hire a GC or manage subcontractors myself?
Owner-builder projects average 40% over budget. Managing 15+ trades requires construction scheduling expertise, building code knowledge, and daily site presence. You also assume full liability for worker injuries and code compliance. A licensed GC provides coordination, insurance, permit management, and warranty — typically saving more than the management fee costs.
What is design-build and why does it matter?
Design-build means one company handles design, engineering, and construction under one contract. Traditional approach uses separate architect, engineer, and GC — creating coordination gaps and blame-shifting. Design-build reduces change orders by 30–40%, compresses timelines by 2–4 months, and provides a single point of accountability.
How do the 2025 LA wildfires affect my construction project?
The Palisades and Eaton fires destroyed 16,000+ structures, creating a demand surge across all LA construction. Expect approximately 6% cost increases and 2–4 week timeline extensions compared to 2024. Subcontractor availability is tighter. Working with a GC who has established sub relationships ensures priority scheduling.
What insurance should a general contractor carry?
At minimum: general liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and a $25,000 contractor surety bond (California requirement). Verify all three at cslb.ca.gov. NP Line Design carries GL, workers’ comp, and the required surety bond, providing unified coverage across all trades working on your project.
What is the difference between fixed-price and cost-plus contracts?
Fixed-price: the GC gives you a total price that does not change (unless you request changes). Cost-plus: you pay actual costs plus a GC markup (typically 15–20%), with no ceiling. Fixed-price protects the homeowner from budget overruns. Cost-plus is open-ended. NP Line Design provides fixed-price proposals with detailed line-item breakdowns.
Does NP Line Design handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes. Our California B-license (#1105249) covers both residential and commercial construction. We specialize in residential projects — custom homes, ADUs, renovations, remodels, and additions — throughout Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, and the greater Westside.
