Frequently Asked Questions

Palacios Construction holds California General Contractors License #1071780 B, which is active and verifiable through the Contractors State License Board. Owner Christian Palacios operates the company and is personally involved in every project. Licensing matters when it comes to permits, liability, and the legal ability to pull building permits on your behalf.

Palacios Construction focuses on residential remodeling and construction — kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, home additions, ADU and JADU construction, full home renovations, outdoor living structures (decks, patios, pergolas), flooring, fireplace renovation, and rental property work. The company does not perform commercial construction. Each project is treated as a well-planned, professionally managed job from the first estimate through final walkthrough.

Palacios Construction uses a transparent bid process — proposals are documented clearly, with every finish and line item spelled out from the start. The company uses realistic allowances, not lowball numbers designed to hook you in and change later. Multiple clients have specifically noted that Christian walked them through the estimate clearly and that costs were transparent throughout the project. You should understand exactly what you're paying for before work begins.

Kitchen remodeling is one of Palacios Construction's core services. Past kitchen projects have included full redesigns with layout changes, new flooring, island installations, hood installation, sink replacement, and cabinet work. Christian works with homeowners to balance layout, functionality, and aesthetics — and helps navigate the many finish and material choices that kitchen projects involve. Permit requirements depend on the scope of work, particularly if plumbing or electrical modifications are involved.

Yes. Palacios Construction has managed complete home renovations including full teardown of ceilings and floors, new floor plan layouts, and rebuild — coordinating subcontractors across flooring, electrical, plumbing, and other trades as needed. The bid process for full renovations is handled with the same transparency as smaller projects, with every phase documented and explained before work begins.

Yes. Palacios Construction has worked on mid-century modern homes, Pebble Beach properties with extensive outdoor spaces, older Monterey Peninsula homes with non-standard features, and homes with vaulted ceilings, open beam interiors, and other architectural elements not common in newer construction. Working with existing structures that have unique characteristics requires attention to detail and flexibility — both of which the team is known for.

Communication throughout the project is something multiple clients have called out specifically in their reviews — not just at the start. Christian is directly involved on job sites, checks in regularly, and is available to address questions or changes as they come up. When issues arise during construction (as they sometimes do on any project), the team addresses them directly and quickly. Post-completion follow-through, including coming back out to resolve issues after the project wraps, is something the company stands behind.

Yes. Leaving the workspace clean at the end of each workday is a standard the Palacios Construction crew holds themselves to. This is not a minor detail — clients in Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, and Monterey have specifically noted it in their reviews as something that set the experience apart from past contractors. Prep work before work begins, including protection of surrounding areas, is part of how the crew approaches every job.

Yes. Palacios Construction works with real estate agents in the Monterey Peninsula market who need property work completed before a sale — repairs, updates, and targeted improvements that make a property ready to list. The team is known for moving quickly on the estimate and completing the work on a tight timeline when the situation calls for it, without cutting corners on quality.

Palacios Construction serves communities across Monterey County including Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pebble Beach, Marina, Seaside, Salinas, Sand City, Del Rey Oaks, Carmel Valley, and Prunedale. The company is based in Monterey at 222 Ramona Ave Unit 5. Most active project work is concentrated on the Monterey Peninsula, though the team works throughout the county.

Palacios Construction coordinates all subcontractors as part of the general contractor role — you do not need to manage separate trades independently. Electrical, plumbing, flooring, and other specialty work are brought in and managed by the team. Multiple clients have noted that the subcontractors Christian works with are top quality and that the overall coordination ran smoothly, even on large multi-trade projects.

Yes. Palacios Construction backs its work. At least one client has documented that Christian returned to address issues that arose after project completion — including work that was technically out of warranty — and resolved them to the client's satisfaction without hesitation. That kind of follow-through after the job is done is a meaningful indicator of how the company operates.

Contact Palacios Construction through the website at palaciosconstructionca.com. Christian is responsive — multiple clients have noted that estimates come back quickly, phone calls get answered, and questions are addressed clearly. Providing a description of the project scope, your timeline, and your location in Monterey County when you reach out will help the team respond with useful information faster.

Yes. Many of Palacios Construction's projects are initiated by buyers who want to renovate before or shortly after moving in. Whether it's a targeted kitchen or bathroom update, a full interior overhaul, or a combination of repairs and upgrades, the team can work through a phased plan that aligns with your move-in timeline. Reaching out before closing — even with a rough project description — allows for faster turnaround on the estimate once the sale is complete.

Palacios Construction can work with property owners on new home construction, including lot preparation, utility connections, permitting assistance, and open floor plan design and build. If you don't yet have blueprints, the team can discuss design direction and help connect you with the right resources to get plans in place before construction begins. Reach out with your lot size, location, and general vision — that's enough to start the conversation.

Kitchen remodel costs vary widely depending on the size of the kitchen, the age of the home, layout changes, and finish selections. In Monterey County, most full kitchen remodels fall into a wide range of 50k-100k+ depending on space, cabinet choice, countertops, appliances, etc. Older homes can add complexity due to outdated plumbing, electrical, or framing. We always walk the space and provide a detailed proposal based on the actual conditions and your goals.

Most kitchen remodels take anywhere from 6 to 10 weeks once construction starts. Larger or more complex projects with layout changes, permits, and inspections can take longer. We build schedules around inspections, trades, and material lead times to keep the project moving.

In most cases, yes. If plumbing, electrical, ventilation, or structural changes are involved, permits are required. This includes moving appliances, adding outlets, changing lighting, modifying walls, or upgrading ventilation. We handle the permit process and inspections so everything is done correctly and to code.

Yes. Many clients choose to keep the existing layout and focus on new cabinets, countertops, backsplash, flooring, lighting, and finishes. This can help control cost and timeline while still giving the kitchen a completely updated look. We’ll advise you on what makes the most sense for your space.

A full kitchen remodel typically includes demolition, framing as needed, plumbing and electrical updates, new cabinets, countertops, backsplash, flooring, lighting, ventilation, drywall, texture, paint, and finish work. Every project is different, so we provide a clear scope of work outlining exactly what is included in your remodel.

Yes, and we do it often. Many homes in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, and surrounding areas are older and have outdated wiring, plumbing, and framing. It’s common to uncover issues once walls are opened. We know how to handle these situations and will communicate any findings before moving forward.

Yes. We coordinate licensed plumbers and electricians as part of the project. You don’t need to hire or manage multiple contractors. We handle scheduling, inspections, and quality control so everything is done properly and to code.

We can help guide layout, functionality, and finish selections. Many clients already have ideas or inspiration, and we help refine them and make sure they work in the real space. We regularly work with reputable 3rd- party designers, so if one is needed for a more custom project, we can refer and coordinate with one accordingly.

The most common issues we see are outdated electrical, ungrounded wiring, old galvanized plumbing, water damage, rot, and poor framing. These are especially common in older homes. We inspect as we go and communicate clearly if anything needs to be addressed.

In most cases, yes. Kitchens are one of the highest return areas in a home. An updated, functional kitchen is a major selling point and adds both value and everyday enjoyment. Many clients remodel not just for resale, but to make the space work better for their lifestyle.

Absolutely. Many clients choose to keep the existing layout and update everything else like tile, vanity, shower, fixtures, and finishes. This can help control costs and timeline while still giving you a completely updated look. We’ll let you know what makes sense based on your goals and the condition of the existing layout.

Most bathroom remodels take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks from start to finish, depending on the scope of work. A simple refresh can be quicker, while a full gut remodel with layout changes, plumbing, and inspections can take longer. We schedule trades carefully and communicate throughout the process to keep things moving and avoid unnecessary delays.

Bathroom remodel costs can vary a lot depending on the size of the bathroom, the age of the home, the materials selected, and how much work is involved behind the walls. In Monterey County, most full bathroom remodels typically range anywhere from 35k for budget friendly bathrooms to 60k+ for more custom or higher-end finishes. Older homes can also add cost due to outdated plumbing, electrical, or framing that needs to be corrected. We always walk the space, discuss goals, and provide a clear, detailed proposal so there are no surprises.

Yes, most kitchen/bath remodels in the City of Monterey require a building permit—especially if we move or add plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or structural elements. The City even has a Kitchen & Bath Express checklist we submit to speed things up. Palacios Construction handles the paperwork and submittals for you.

Yes. We work with vetted licensed plumbers and electricians and coordinate all trades as part of the project. You don’t have to hire or manage multiple contractors. We handle scheduling, inspections, and quality control so everything is done correctly and to code.

A full bathroom remodel typically includes demolition, new plumbing and electrical as needed, new shower or tub, waterproofing, tile, vanity, countertops, fixtures, lighting, ventilation, drywall, texture, paint, and finish work. Every project is different, so we provide a detailed scope of work that clearly outlines exactly what is included in your specific remodel.

Yes, and we do it often. Many homes in Monterey, Pacific Grove, and surrounding areas are older and come with their own challenges. We frequently uncover old plumbing, outdated wiring, poor framing, or water damage. We know how to handle these situations properly and will always communicate any findings and options before moving forward.

We can absolutely help guide you with layout, functionality, and finish selections. Many clients already have ideas or inspiration, and we help refine them and make sure they work in the real world. If a full designer is needed for a more custom project, we can also coordinate with one. Either way, we’ll help you through the process.

The most common issues we see are water damage, rot, mold, outdated plumbing, ungrounded electrical, and improper framing. These are especially common in older homes. We always inspect as we go and communicate any issues we find so you understand what’s going on and can make informed decisions.

In most cases, yes. Bathrooms are one of the highest return areas in a home. An updated, clean, well-designed bathroom is a big selling point and improves both comfort and resale value. Beyond value, most clients remodel because they want the space to function better and feel better to use every day.

In most cases, yes. In Monterey County and the surrounding cities, a bathroom remodel will require permits if any plumbing, electrical, ventilation, or structural work is involved. This includes things like changing or relocating plumbing, adding or moving outlets or lighting, installing a new vent fan, converting a tub to a shower, or modifying walls. If the work is strictly cosmetic, such as replacing tile, a vanity in the same location, or fixtures without altering plumbing or electrical, a permit may not be required. That said, many homes in this area are older, and once walls are opened, permit requirements are often triggered. We review the scope up front and handle permits when needed so everything is done correctly and to local code.

Yes. Palacios Construction builds ADUs and JADUs throughout Monterey County, including design and pre-construction planning, permit coordination, and full construction management. The team also works with homeowners who already have city-approved plans in hand.

Yes. Both ADUs and additions require permits and inspections. This includes building, electrical, plumbing, and sometimes mechanical permits. Each city has its own process, but all require approved plans before construction can begin. We handle the permit process and coordination with the local planning and building department.

In most cases, yes. Adding livable square footage, especially with an ADU, can significantly increase property value and appeal. ADUs also offer rental income potential or flexible space for family. Additions improve the main living area and overall functionality of the home.

Yes. California expanded ADU rules again in 2025 to reduce barriers. The state’s updated HCD ADU Handbook (Jan 2025) explains the current standards and timelines that local jurisdictions must follow. For Monterey County, current guidance notes typical allowances such as 4-foot side/rear setbacks and up to 16-foot height for certain detached ADUs, with additional provisions to ensure at least an 800 sq. ft. ADU is feasible. Palacios Construction designs to these rules and manages the planning and building permit steps. If your property is in the Coastal Zone, extra review can apply (Coastal Development Permit). We flag this early and sequence Coastal + Building approvals together to keep your project moving.

Many neighborhoods around Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, Pebble Beach, Seaside, and Marina map into Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ). Use CAL FIRE’s official viewer to check an address. If you’re in a mapped zone, Chapter 7A ember-resistant construction (vents, roofing, gutters, siding, decks) may apply to new builds and certain additions/alterations, and 100 feet of defensible space is required where flammable vegetation exists. Palacios designs with compliant materials and details and coordinates defensible-space steps so approvals go smoothly.

ADU costs vary quite a bit depending on size, type, site conditions, utility needs, and finishes, but a good rule of thumb in California right now is roughly $200 – $400 per square foot for most new ADUs, with the mid-range often around $300 – $400 per square foot when you include construction, trades, and standard finishes. Smaller units or conversions (like garage conversions) can be less per square foot, and high-end or very complex ADUs can run above that range.

An ADU is a separate living unit with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. An addition expands the existing home and is accessed from inside the house. Both add square footage, but ADUs are considered independent living spaces, while additions are part of the main home.

In most cases, yes, but it depends on zoning, lot size, setbacks, parking requirements, and utility availability. Each city has its own rules, and some coastal or historic areas have additional restrictions. We review your property and local regulations to confirm what is allowed before moving forward.

From start to finish, ADUs and additions can take several months. Design and permits alone can take time, especially in this area. Once construction starts, timelines depend on size, complexity, inspections, and weather. We set realistic schedules and keep you informed throughout the process.

ADU size is regulated by state law and local zoning rules. Most properties allow up to 800 square feet, and some allow larger depending on the lot and layout. Setbacks, coverage limits, and access all play a role. We review your property to determine the maximum allowable size.

In many cases, yes. Some ADUs can tie into existing services, but others require upgrades or separate connections. In Monterey County, water and sewer capacity can be a major factor, and credits or fees may apply. We help navigate these requirements and coordinate with the appropriate agencies.

Yes, garage conversions are very common and often the most efficient way to build an ADU. The structure still needs to meet current code, and utilities, insulation, and egress must be addressed. We inspect the existing garage and let you know what upgrades will be required.

Yes. Each city has its own zoning rules, setbacks, parking requirements, and design guidelines. Some neighborhoods also have coastal or historic overlays. We review all applicable regulations so there are no surprises during the approval process.

Yes. Both ADUs and additions require approved plans before permits can be issued. This includes floor plans, elevations, and structural details. We work with designers and engineers as needed and coordinate the entire plan and submittal process.

Older homes often have outdated plumbing, electrical, foundations, or framing that need to be upgraded. We also commonly run into limited access, tight setbacks, and utility constraints. We identify these early and communicate clearly so you can make informed decisions.

Yes. Many clients build ADUs for long-term rental, family members, or future flexibility. The intended use can affect design and layout, so we discuss your goals early to make sure the ADU is built to fit your needs.

It starts with a site visit and conversation about your goals. From there, we review zoning, utilities, and feasibility, then move into design, budgeting, and permits. Once everything is approved, we schedule construction and take it through to completion.

In Monterey, the water math is done through MPWMD fixture units. A typical “full bath” added from scratch is usually about 4.3 fixture units if you use a high-efficiency toilet (1.3) + one lav (1) + a standard shower (2). If you choose different fixtures (like an older 1.6 gpf toilet at 1.8, or a large tub at 3), the fixture unit total goes up.

As far as buying water: the City of Monterey states it does not have water credits available for allocation, and projects are limited to the credits/fixture capacity tied to the specific site (plus certain protocols/wait lists). For official info, the best place to start is Monterey’s Water Availability page and MPWMD’s permit office site. Monterey Water Availability: https://monterey.org/city_hall/departments/community_development/water_availability.php MPWMD Water Permits: https://www.mpwmd.net/water-permits

The same MPWMD fixture-unit math applies as it does in Monterey. A typical added full bath is commonly about 4.3 fixture units (HET toilet 1.3 + lav 1 + shower 2).

Pacific Grove is different from Monterey because Pacific Grove has a program where potable water is available for sale and you can apply to purchase credits/entitlement through the City. The City’s water credit page (and their “Water Credit Sale Process” docs) outline the application steps and where to submit. Pacific Grove Water Credits: https://www.cityofpacificgrove.org/our_city/departments/building___engineering/water_credits.php

The fixture-unit math is still the same baseline: a typical added full bath is often about 4.3 fixture units with efficient fixtures (HET toilet 1.3 + lav 1 + shower 2).

For buying water in Carmel, the City’s Planning FAQ specifically says water entitlement is available to purchase from Malpaso Water Company and points you to their process. Carmel Planning FAQ (Water Info): https://ci.carmel.ca.us/planning-faq Malpaso Water Company: https://www.malpasowater.com

An ADU usually triggers water review because you’re adding fixtures. MPWMD is clear that the fixture units needed vary based on what fixtures are existing and what you’re adding.

But to give homeowners a clean planning example using MPWMD’s published numbers: a very common ADU setup (1 bath + kitchen + laundry) can land around 7.8 to 10.3 fixture units, depending on efficiency choices. Here are two common examples based on the table:

Efficient package (~7.8 FU): lav 1 + shower 2 + HET toilet 1.3 + kitchen sink with adjacent high-eff dishwasher 1.5 + high-eff clothes washer 1 More standard package (~10.3 FU): lav 1 + shower 2 + HET toilet 1.3 + kitchen sink 2 + clothes washer 2

Monterey specifically is limited by what your site already has (the City says no credits available for allocation), while Pacific Grove and Carmel have purchase paths (PG city sale program; Carmel via Malpaso).

MPWMD Fixture Unit Table: https://www.mpwmd.net/fixture-unit-values Pacific Grove Water Credits: https://www.cityofpacificgrove.org/our_city/departments/building___engineering/water_credits.php Carmel Water Info: https://ci.carmel.ca.us/planning-faq

SB 326 applies to condominium associations and HOAs. SB 721 applies to apartment buildings with three or more units. The key difference is ownership type. If the building is a condo with an HOA, SB 326 applies. If it is a rental apartment building, SB 721 applies. Both laws require inspections of exterior elevated elements such as balconies, decks, walkways, and stairs. SB 326 law text: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201520160SB326 SB 721 law text: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201720180SB721

Both laws require inspection of exterior elevated elements that are more than 6 feet above ground and supported in whole or in part by wood. This includes balconies, decks, walkways, stair landings, and similar structures. If people can stand or walk on it and it is elevated, it should be assumed it falls under the law until confirmed otherwise. California Department of Housing EEE guidance: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/exterior-elevated-elements.shtml

For SB 326 (HOAs), the first inspection deadline is January 1, 2025, with follow-up inspections required every 9 years. Inspections must be performed by a licensed structural engineer or architect. For SB 721 (apartments), the first inspection deadline is January 1, 2026, with follow-up inspections required every 6 years. Inspections must be performed by a licensed architect, civil engineer, structural engineer, or other qualified professional as allowed by the local jurisdiction. California HOA SB 326 guidance: https://www.davis-stirling.com/HOME/S/SB-326-Balcony-Inspection California Department of Housing SB 721 info: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/exterior-elevated-elements.shtml

Yes. Palacios Construction works with HOA management companies and property managers on crawlspace repairs, unit-level remodels, and ongoing maintenance work within HOA parameters and inspection requirements.

Yes. We regularly work with property managers and HOAs throughout Monterey County on maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. This includes unit turns, common area repairs, exterior maintenance, dry rot repair, deck and stair repairs, and code-related work. We understand approval processes, budgets, and scheduling around tenants and residents.

Yes. We handle full unit turns including drywall repairs, paint, flooring, trim, doors, fixtures, minor plumbing and electrical, and general repairs. Our goal is to get units rent-ready efficiently without cutting corners.

Yes. We respond to urgent issues such as water damage, leaks, structural concerns, unsafe conditions, and storm damage. We understand that these situations affect tenants and liability, so we prioritize safety and quick response.

Yes. We regularly work in occupied units and coordinate scheduling with tenants through property managers. We communicate clearly, respect tenant spaces, and keep disruptions to a minimum while getting the work done.

Yes. If a repair or upgrade requires permits, we handle the permit process, inspections, and documentation. This includes structural repairs, electrical, plumbing, and code-related work. We make sure everything is done correctly and in compliance with local requirements.

Yes. We often walk properties with property managers and owners to identify deferred maintenance issues and help prioritize repairs. This allows you to plan budgets, avoid surprises, and address issues before they become major problems.

Yes. We provide clear scopes of work, photos, and documentation so owners, boards, and asset managers understand exactly what is being done. This is especially important for HOAs, multi-family properties, and properties with multiple decision makers.

Yes in most cases. In the City of Monterey, a building permit is not required only when a deck is under 200 sq. ft., is 30 inches or less above grade, is not attached to the home, and does not serve an exit door. Anything beyond that needs a permit and plan submittal. In unincorporated Monterey County, decks are typically permitted; many projects under 1,000 sq. ft. fall under the County’s “Minor Permit” program, which streamlines plan review but still requires approval. Palacios Construction handles the checklist, drawings, and permit coordination for you.

Yes. Decks, patios, and pergolas are part of the service scope. Palacios Construction has designed and built outdoor additions that function as genuine extensions of the home — with careful attention to materials, drainage, and how the structure integrates with the existing property. Outdoor projects in Monterey County often involve specific setback and permitting requirements that the team handles as part of the project.

Yes. Fireplace renovation — including updating the face, surround, and hearth — is a service Palacios Construction provides. Christian works with homeowners to select materials and finishes that fit the room's character. Recent fireplace work has included replacing dated stone surrounds with new finishes that modernized the look of the entire living space without requiring a full room renovation.

Yes. Flooring installation is included in Palacios Construction's scope of work — both as a standalone service and as part of larger remodel projects. Past work has included luxury vinyl plank (LVP) installation in kitchens and family rooms, as well as refinishing and specialty flooring applications. Material selection, substrate prep, and transition handling are all part of what the team manages.

Yes, and this is a common situation on the Monterey Peninsula. Palacios Construction works with homeowners who have inherited unpermitted deck structures and need them brought into code compliance — whether that means a full rebuild or targeted structural corrections. The team handles the permit process, works with the local jurisdiction on what's required, and can also address associated work like stucco repairs or exterior painting that often comes up alongside a deck project.

Yes. Palacios Construction installs composite decking including Trex and TimberTech, which are frequently requested by homeowners looking for low-maintenance, long-lasting alternatives to wood. These products are specified at the estimate stage so you know exactly what material you're getting and what it will cost. Wire cable railings — another commonly requested pairing — are also part of what the team can incorporate into a deck build or rebuild.

Yes. Window installation and replacement, as well as siding work, are part of Palacios Construction's exterior service scope. These are frequently requested as standalone projects or bundled with larger renovations. Specific window types, including tempered glass and directional changes, have been handled on past projects.

Yes. Fence installation and repair are part of the exterior work Palacios Construction offers. Whether it's a new fence for privacy or property definition, a replacement for aging or damaged materials, or a repair to an existing structure, the team can scope and price the work. Fencing in Monterey County may be subject to setback or height restrictions depending on your location — the team addresses those requirements as part of the project.

Yes. Water and moisture intrusion is one of the more common repair drivers in Monterey County's coastal climate. Palacios Construction handles water-damaged structures, crawlspace work including moisture barrier installation or repair, rodent-proof venting, insulation reinstallation, and debris removal. For mold-related repairs, the team works on the construction side — rebuilding the affected areas after remediation has been completed. Providing an existing inspection report when you reach out helps the team scope the project accurately from the start.

Yes. Palacios Construction takes on fire damage repair projects including debris removal, drywall teardown to studs, roof and truss replacement, square footage additions during rebuild, and fire sprinkler installation coordination. The team can work alongside an existing permit process if plans are already in hand, or assist with the permit application as part of the project. Reach out early — even if the permit is still pending — so the scope and timeline can be planned in advance.

Yes. Palacios Construction works on insurance-related repair projects — water damage, fire damage, and mold-related reconstruction are all within scope. The team can provide the documentation and line-item estimates that insurance carriers typically require, and can work within the timeline and scope defined by an active claim. If you have an adjuster's report or existing documentation, sharing that when you reach out will help the team prepare an accurate bid that aligns with your coverage.