FAQ
Your construction questions, answered.
Considering a remodel, a new build, or hiring an owner's representative? Here are clear, straightforward answers about our licensing, insurance, and how we work. If your question is not here, ask us.
Is PACM a licensed general contractor?
Yes. Palo Alto Construction Management, Inc. holds a California Class B (General Building) contractor license, number 1084397. This certification means we meet the state’s standards for professional general construction across a wide range of building and remodeling projects. You can verify our license status directly with the California Contractors State License Board.
Are you bonded and insured?
Absolutely. California law requires every licensed contractor to carry a contractor’s bond, and ours is in force for $25,000 as shown on our CSLB profile. Palo Alto Construction Management is also comprehensively insured through Prevot & Associates (650-578-8888, www.prevotassociates.com). Ask us for a certificate of insurance and we will have it sent to you directly.
What types of projects do you handle?
We frequently work on everything from targeted bathroom and kitchen remodels to whole-home renovations and full custom home builds. We also act as owner’s representative on large projects where you have your own architect and builder. For established clients we are happy to take on smaller maintenance and repair projects.
What does a general contractor do?
As your general contractor we are the central point of command for your project. That means overseeing day-to-day site operations, managing all vendors and subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, painters, and others), making sure materials and equipment arrive on schedule, keeping a safe and clean job site, and communicating progress directly to you. Our job is to finish on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
What is an owner's representative, and when do I need one?
An owner’s representative is a construction professional who works only for you, the homeowner, on a project that another builder constructs. We help select the design and construction team, review contracts and budgets, level bids, visit the site weekly, verify pay applications and change orders, and manage closeout. It makes sense on large or complex projects, when you are busy or out of town, or whenever you want independent oversight. See owner’s representation.
How do you keep a project on schedule and on budget?
It starts with a detailed pre-construction phase where we establish a clear timeline and a comprehensive budget, and order long-lead items before demolition. During the project we track progress against those benchmarks and share consistent updates. Open communication lets us address potential issues early and make informed decisions together, keeping the project on track.
Where do you work?
We are based in Midtown Palo Alto and work primarily in Palo Alto. We have also completed projects in Menlo Park, Atherton, Los Altos, and Mountain View, and consider projects elsewhere on the Peninsula case by case.
Let's talk about your home.
Tell us what you are planning. We will be candid about scope, budget, and timing, and happy to share local references.