Question 1

How do I know if I need a general contractor?

Accepted Answer

You need a licensed general contractor for any project involving structural changes, multiple trades, or permits, which covers most renovations, all additions, and all new construction. Single-trade work like replacing a water heater doesn't require one.

Question 2

What happens at the first consultation?

Accepted Answer

We walk the property, listen to what you're trying to accomplish, and give you an honest read on feasibility and a rough cost range. It takes about an hour, it's free, and there's no obligation.

Question 3

How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

Plan on 2 to 4 months between your first call and the start of construction for most projects. Design, selections, and permitting fill that time. Larger additions and custom homes need longer.

Question 4

Do you offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the initial consultation and preliminary estimate are free. Detailed line-item estimates requiring engineering or measured drawings sometimes carry a design fee, which we tell you about before it applies.

Question 5

How much do your projects typically cost?

Accepted Answer

It varies by project type: bathroom remodels generally run $15,000 to $45,000, kitchens $30,000 to $85,000, additions $200 to $400 per square foot, and custom homes $250 to $500 per square foot. Every project gets a line-item estimate after we've walked the property.

Question 6

How is payment structured?

Accepted Answer

Construction projects are paid in draws tied to completed milestones rather than in one lump sum. You'll see the full schedule in the contract before signing.

Question 7

Will you match a lower bid?

Accepted Answer

Not usually, and it's worth understanding why bids differ. A lower number often means a smaller scope, cheaper materials, unlicensed subs, or costs that surface later as change orders. We'll walk you through another bid line by line and show you where the difference is.

Question 8

How long will my project take?

Accepted Answer

Bathrooms typically run 3 to 6 weeks, kitchens 6 to 12 weeks, whole-home renovations 4 to 9 months, additions 4 to 8 months, and custom homes 12 to 18 months. Those are on-site figures — design and permitting come before them.

Question 9

Who is my point of contact during the project?

Accepted Answer

One person, and you'll have their cell number. You won't be routed through an office or handed between departments.

Question 10

What happens if the project runs over schedule?

Accepted Answer

We tell you as soon as we know, with the reason and a revised date. Weather, inspection scheduling, and material lead times are the usual causes. What we can control is that you hear it from us early.

Question 11

Will you clean up?

Accepted Answer

Every day. Job sites get swept and secured at the end of each work day, and we do a full clean before the final walkthrough.

Question 12

Are you licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. McHugh's Residential Construction holds Florida Certified General Contractor license CGC1519826. You can verify it directly on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.

Question 13

Are you insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. We provide current certificates before work begins, and you should require the same from any contractor you hire.

Question 14

Why does hiring a licensed contractor matter?

Accepted Answer

An unlicensed contractor's work can fail inspection, void your homeowners insurance, and create problems at resale when permits don't match what's built. If an unlicensed worker is injured on your property, you may be personally liable.

Question 15

Do you pull permits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, on every project that requires one. Be cautious of any contractor who suggests skipping permits or asks you to pull them yourself as the homeowner, because that shifts liability onto you.

Question 16

What if something goes wrong after the project is finished?

Accepted Answer

Call us. We handle warranty issues directly rather than routing you to a sub. Twenty years in one market means we're not hard to find.

Question 17

Are manufacturer warranties separate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Appliances, roofing materials, windows, and fixtures carry their own manufacturer warranties, which are typically longer than a workmanship warranty. We provide all documentation at closeout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Cost & Payment

Timeline & Process

Licensing & Insurance

Warranty

Ready to talk about your project?