New construction · San Jose & the Bay Area
New Construction Contractor in San Jose, CA
New construction starts from bare ground: site work, foundation, framing, utilities and inspections, in the right order. We build new structures from the slab up, from backyard units to new additions and custom builds.
- CSLB Lic. #1003436
- Free estimates
- (650) 749-7436
What does new construction involve? The short answer
Industry Resources & Standards:
New construction means building something that does not exist yet: a new home, a detached unit, or a new addition. Unlike a remodel, there is no existing structure to work around, but there are more approvals, a new foundation and every utility to bring in.
The work runs in a fixed sequence. Each stage has to be inspected and approved before the next one can cover it up, so the order of the build is also the order of the inspections.
What we build from the ground up
| Project | What it is | Learn more |
|---|---|---|
| Backyard unit or ADU | A new, separate dwelling on the same lot as an existing home | Guest houses and ADUs |
| Addition | New living space added onto an existing house, on the ground or as a second story | Room additions and second story |
| Custom home add-on | A larger new structure built to match the existing property | Custom home add-ons |
| New outdoor structures | Decks, patios and pergolas built from new foundations | Landscape remodeling |
What your lot can support depends on its size, zoning and your city’s rules, which we confirm at the start.
Six things that decide a new build
These are the usual deciding factors. Each one is easier to settle before design than during construction.
Zoning and site constraints
Setbacks, height limits and lot coverage decide how big and where a new structure can go. They are checked before design, not after.
Next step: Confirm zoning and setbacks for your address first.
Soil and foundation
The foundation is designed for the soil it sits on and the loads it carries. Poor soil or a sloped lot can change the design.
Next step: Ask whether a soils or geotechnical report is needed.
Utilities
Water, sewer, electrical and gas connections have to be brought to the new structure. Distance and depth drive the work.
Next step: Locate the sewer lateral, water line and panel early.
Energy code
New buildings in California have to meet the current Energy Code. For newly built ADUs, that includes a solar requirement (see the state ADU handbook).
Next step: Ask for the energy compliance documents during design.
Inspections
A new building is inspected at each stage: foundation, framing, rough utilities, insulation and final. Work cannot be covered until it passes.
Next step: Ask for the inspection schedule with the project timeline.
Permit timeline
Plan review takes time and may come back with comments. State law sets review deadlines for ADUs, but other new construction follows local review times.
Next step: Build the permit time into your schedule.
How a new build typically runs
Feasibility
Check the lot, zoning, utilities and soil, and agree the size, layout and scope.
Design and engineering
Produce the architectural and structural plans and the energy compliance documents.
Permit
Submit the plans, respond to plan-check comments and obtain the building permit.
Site work and foundation
Clear and grade the site, set the forms and rebar, and pour and inspect the foundation.
Framing and weather-tight shell
Frame the walls and roof, then add the wrap, windows, doors, siding and roofing.
Utilities and interior
Run plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems, pass the rough inspections, then insulate and close the walls.
Finish and final inspection
Interior finishes, fixtures and paint, followed by the city’s final inspection.
A new build, stage by stage
These photos are from one of our San Jose backyard builds, in the order the work happens.
New construction questions
Do you build new homes?
We build new structures from the ground up, including detached units, additions and custom add-ons to existing properties. Tell us what you have in mind and we will tell you whether we are the right fit for it.
Do I need a permit for new construction?
Yes. New construction needs a building permit, engineered plans and inspections at each stage. We prepare the plans and handle the application.
How long does new construction take?
It depends on the size, the site and the permit review. We give a schedule with the written estimate once we have seen the property.
Can I build a second unit on my lot?
Often yes. California law lets homeowners build accessory dwelling units, with rules set at the state level. See the state ADU resources and our ADU page.
What is the difference between new construction and a remodel?
A remodel changes an existing structure. New construction builds a structure that does not exist yet, which means a new foundation, new utility connections and a full set of inspections.
How much does new construction cost?
It depends on the size, the site, the foundation and the finishes. We give a written estimate after seeing the property. Call (650) 749-7436 to schedule one.
Related services
What Our Clients Say
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Professional Resources & Regulations
- California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) — Verify contractor licenses
- City of San Jose Building Permits — Permit requirements & inspections
- ENERGY STAR — Energy-efficient materials & standards
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Licensed • CSLB#1003436 • Serving San Jose & Bay Area
Or call us directly: (650) 749-7436
Quartz is a construction and remodeling company serving San Jose and the nearby areas. Our firm offers a wide range of services, including full-home renovations, kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovations, window replacement, deck building and repair, patio construction, and more.
Location
Address: 1777 Hamilton Avenue #1080, San Jose, 95125 California, USA.
Mon-Sat: 08:00 – 19:00
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