Planning a remodel? Don’t pick up that hammer just yet. In California, permits are more than paperwork — they’re the key to safe, legal, and insurable construction. Whether you’re upgrading a kitchen, adding a room, or building an ADU, it’s critical to know which projects require city approval and which don’t. Getting it wrong could mean fines, delays, or even being forced to undo the work.
Here’s what every homeowner should know before starting a renovation project.
In general, permits are required for any work that alters the structure, plumbing, electrical, or square footage of your home.
Projects that usually require permits include:
Not sure? The safest move is to check with your local building department — or work with a contractor who handles it for you.
Some smaller, cosmetic updates can often be done without a permit — especially if they don’t involve major systems or structural changes.
Examples include:
Even then, some cities have special rules for historic homes, HOA neighborhoods, or lot coverage — so always double-check.
Some homeowners think they’ll save time or money by skipping the permit process — but that shortcut can backfire fast.
Here’s what can go wrong:
Bottom line: what seems like a “minor” project could have major consequences if you skip the legal steps.
At AHI Builders, we take the stress out of permits. Our team knows California building codes and city-specific rules — and we handle all applications, inspections, and approvals on your behalf. That means no red tape for you, and total peace of mind knowing your project is compliant from day one.
Building Something New? Don’t Guess — Ask the Pros.
Contact AHI Builders for a free consultation and let us handle the permitting process so your next remodel is smooth, legal, and stress-free.
Testimonials
Happy Customers say it Best.
American home did a kitchen remodel for me. I was very impressed with the project manager I met with. He was very professional, on time, gave me a lot of great ideas. I would def recommend this company. They made my remodel so easy for me I didn’t have to lift a finger.
Markel Babek
I had the pleasure of working with David at American Home Improvement Inc. The work he did for me was amazing! I have a home in Woodland Hills and was looking to remodel my kitchen. David was able to help me find the perfect design for what I wanted. He helped me choose the best materials and appliances for my kitchen. He kept me updated throughout the entire process and made sure that everything went smoothly. I will definitely be using them again when it comes time to do some more remodeling in my house!
Pat Dawson
I have been working with AHI for so many different projects on my home for some time now. I am very impressed with the professionalism the project managers show each and every day. They truly care about their customers and the quality of their work. The attention to detail and customer care is amazing. I would trust AHI with any remodel I do in the future.
Linda Cruz
I recently had my bathroom remodeled by Sam from American Home Improvement, Inc. He did a fantastic job! The bathroom looks amazing, and he worked with me to get it done quickly for a good price. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for remodeling services.
James Sanders
I used AHI for a kitchen remodel in our first home and was our first major remodel. They made the entire experience so easy. They gave us a great competitive price and the work was outstanding. I will definitely use them again and would refer them to anybody.
Josh Stevens
I was really skeptical of hiring a contractor because of my budget but I said I'll give it a shot so I called American home improvement & so far this has been the best decision yet. My project manager worked with me all the way through & was able to work within my means without sacrificing what I wanted. I did my kitchen, bathroom & floors & Im so glad I did it with them. I will definitely use them again for my future projects.
Vered Gedalia
My experience with American Home Improvement has been amazing. They installed all new windows in my home and I LOVE them. From the very beginning to the very end every person I've spoken to with AHI has been beyond professional, friendly, and we'll knowledgeable.
Franklin Higgs
My kitchen was recently remodeled by the American Home Improvement and I have to say how impressed I am with the quality of their work as well as the customer service. One of the best experiences I have had working with this type of company. I have been complimented on my kitchen so many times since I got it remodeled.
In an industry that seems plagued with problems and complaints it's nice to have someone, Moti Shaul, who manages projects for American Home Improvement. He comes to your house personally, offers all products and services needed for your needs at a fair price. We didn't have to deal with so many different people like other companies. American installed new heating and air conditioning units in our home and did a great job. They know all the regulations coming our way and the quality control from his team was greatly appreciated. Thank you so much.
Mollie Power
Working with Shawn was great, after visiting their location and meeting the staff I felt very comfortable with my decision to remodel. The process wasn't always easy but Shawn made it easy for us to live in the home during construction. The workers were very polite and the projects were completed on time and I couldn't be happier.
Lillian Murphy
American Home Improvement Inc is the best contractor I've ever worked with. They're extremely punctual and professional, and they take great care to do quality work. They did some bathroom remodeling for me, and it looks fantastic. The whole process was very smooth and easy. They even helped me find a great new faucet! They also did some decking for me—it looks amazing! It was a little more complicated than the bathroom remodel, but they still managed to complete it in a timely manner, and it's perfect now. I can't recommend them enough!
Aaron Bridges
American Home Improvement Inc was the best experience we had when it came to remodeling our kitchen. David and his team were extremely professional, and did an amazing job! They always kept us informed of what was going on, and made sure that we were happy with every decision that was being made. We would highly recommend them for any remodeling needs you may have!
Randal French
I had a great experience with American Home Improvement Inc. I needed some work done on my bathroom, and they replaced the toilet and sink, installed a medicine cabinet, and put up new tile. The best part was that they were able to do it in one day. They sent David over who was very friendly and helpful throughout the whole process. He answered all of my questions and made sure everything was done right. He even helped me pick out the tile color! The price was reasonable too! After seeing how much better my bathroom looks now, I'm thinking about having them help me with other projects around the house too!
Justin Shelton
American Home Improvement gave me a beautiful kitchen and bathroom. Everything from plumping, electric, and asbestos removal was performed professional and timely. The price was fully discussed and agreed on, there were no surprises. My project manager Shawn walked me through each step, keeping me up to date on everything. Great experience!
Beth Pell
David is amazing. He helped us to complete our bathroom and kitchen remodel with ease. He took care of everything and even went above and beyond what we had originally discussed. We are so happy with the end result, and I would recommend American Home Improvement Inc to anyone looking for a general contractor.
Ramiro Phelps
I had a bathroom remodel done by American Home Improvement Inc. I was really happy with the results. The contractor, David, was very professional and knowledgeable. He showed up on time every day and his team did a great job of cleaning up after they were done. They were also very neat and tidy while working in my home. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a contractor for their home improvement projects!
Ryan Mendez
I was impressed with the level of professionalism and attention to detail. The project manager was very clear about the work that needed to be done, and he made sure that my needs were met every step of the way. The project manager also made sure that everything was done on time and within budget. The workers were very professional and took pride in their work. They cleaned up after themselves so there was no mess for me to clean up after they left each day! I would highly recommend American Home Improvement Inc for any home improvement projects you might have!
Ramon Watkins
It's too hard to write how much I recommend this company. My house was flooded with rain and when I called this company I knew everything would be perfect. All my problems have been solved, the house is clean and renovated successfully. American Home Improvement Inc. services is one of the most competent companies that manages properties and offers high class services.
Jesse Silva
Sam was a pleasure to work with. He was extremely professional and did exactly what he said he would do. He really tried to think of new ways to help our bathroom look better and be more functional. He worked hard, cleaned up after himself and on the rare occasion there was a problem, he either fixed it immediately or made sure it didn't happen again.
Tomas Pratt
This company was absolutely amazing. I called and got David on the phone right away, and he came out to my house to give me a quote. I had no idea what to expect, but I can tell you that the price was great—and even better than the other companies I called! The work they did was top-notch. They did everything they said they would do and more, and they left the place cleaner than when they started. It looks amazing now!
Meribamba Diallo
After meeting with numerous contractors and design companies we choose to work with American Home Improvement. The had very competitive price and we available in short time. Everything was taken care of very professionally and with great courtesy. The cabinets and counter tops look awesome and my whole family love them! Would definitely recommend American Home Improvement to anyone!!!
Ronald J.
American Home Improvement built a beautiful patio for us and I couldn't have been more happy with Moti and his crew as far as their honesty, knowledge, craftsmanship and willing to go the extra mile to do things right. I would highly recommend them to anyone and will definitely work with them again!!
Stephen P.
David is a fantastic general contractor. I've worked with him on multiple projects and have always been incredibly impressed with his work. He's very thorough and takes great pride in his work. He also has a strong attention to detail, which is important to me when it comes to people working in my home. David is also very professional and easy to work with. He listens carefully to your needs and makes sure you're happy with his suggestions before starting any project.
Kelly Barton
I am very impressed with American Home Improvement! They were extremely professional and their customer support is excellent and were very responsive every time I emailed or called with a question or concern. I can't remember the last time I dealt with a company that actually cares about customer satisfaction. This company is one I would highly recommend if you are considering adding a patio. Thanks for my beautiful new patio enclosure!
Charles J.
I called them in for my home renovation and they sent someone to check things and give an estimate . The think i was more concerned about is if I would get the kind of look i want from them. But to my surprise they provided me good quality design which was spot on with my expectation on the remodeling. The team sent to my work was very friendly. Their service is very good.I will definitely call American Home Improvement Inc if i want another redesign.
Jillian W.
I can't say enough good things about Neev Kugel from American Home Improvement. I had a old kitchen from the 1980s that badly needed updating. Neev had a vision that he and his team implemented efficiently and beautifully. Everything went smoothly with no big surprises. I always felt comfortable with Neev, knowing he had my back. I highly recommend Neev and American Home Improvement.
Margaret C.
I would highly recommend American Home Improvement Inc. I worked with David, the owner of American Home Improvement, and he was extremely knowledgeable, easy to work with, and honest about the process. He provided me with a detailed estimate for my bathroom remodel and followed through on everything he promised. The work was done quickly and efficiently, and I am very happy with the results!
Ray Foster
I would highly recommend American Home Improvement Inc. They did an excellent job on my kitchen remodel. David was very responsive and was always available to answer any questions I had about the project. The staff is friendly, kind, and professional. They showed up on time each day and finished the project within the expected timeframe.
Jeff Ford
Very trustworthy company! I needed to build a patio at my house and heard from friend that American Home Improvement is right company for that job, he had great experience with them. I contacted them and really like their offer. After we signed a contract Eli and his crew arrived soon to start a project. They were excellent in all aspects of work. The result was more than great, excellent quality of build! Thanks will recommend to others!!
Jason M.
We found this contractor on internet and they have many excellent reviews and ratings so we sent a quote for a bathroom remodeling. They answered immediatelly and we set up a meeting next day. They came to our house, checked a bathroom and gave us an estimate and we agreed. From start to finish project went smoothly, no issues, no mistakes just perfect. They finished a bathroom a few days earlier and with no adding extra costs. And a new reodeled bathroom looks fantastic, very modern and functional. Very trustworthy and reliable contractor.
Ronald L.
7 companies I looked at, all so different from 12,000 to 70,000. An hour each of wasted time and lies. However this company right to the point very quick installation and price very fair. I have solar now and I am very pleased and recommend them to everyone. Thank you!!
Katz P.
David and the team from American Home Improvment were all great as they helped us refurbish a 55-year old guest bathroom. It all looks amazing! We are very happy! David did an excellent bit of work transforming a tub, shower, and out-dated tile into something that looks new, clean, fresh, and inviting. Highly recommend them!
Brittney H.
Had a great experience with American Home Improvement. We met with Sean and he was very professional, knowledgeable and answered all the questions I had about the possibilities of the space we want to remodel. Would definitely recommend. Thank you!!!
Ashley A.
I am happy I went with my decision and chose American Home Improvement to renovate my kitchen. They gave me the best offer not lowest in price but best terms of quality. The crew worked super professionally, arrived every day on time and clean after themselves. Love my new kitchen!
Lior Barashi B.
I had problems finding a good and trustworthy contractor and then I reached out to them and had them come out on Monday they were so professional through the entire process. I finally found the right company and Im so excited to work with them in the future.
Ori g.
I love my kitchen and bath updates! My project manager was very easy to work with. He communicated very well and kept me apprised of everything. The crews did beautiful work and were so helpful. Everyone I interacted with was so nice and responsive. Questions were welcomed and the process was explained clearly throughout. And they finished ahead of schedule!
Mariua T.
I wanted to give a huge shout out to Nick Barn with AHI, it was a breeze working with Nick throughout the whole solar process. I was impressed with Nick from our initial meeting because he was the 5th company I had contacted and was quickly impressed with Nicks knowledge and thoroughness with solar panels. I have since referred Nick to family and friends because he is a honest and trusted human, which is rare these days. Hands down AHI is your choice when going solar.
Hector G.
Thank you so so much American Home Improvement!! I am so insanely happy with my new kitchen and there is nothing I would do different. They were so communicative, professional, respectful, and dedicated to their work. Thank you again, you guys are the best!!
Autumn M.
The entire remodeling process has been simple and smooth. These guys gave me a fair price in remodeling my bathroom and iuling room. The overall estimate was far and the quality of work was good. They finished 4 days eather than estimated, which is almost a week sooner than I anticipated. My standards have been surpassed by this company. You have gone above and beyond. American Home Improvement will be receiving more business from me and my whole family!!
Julia M.
We just completed a bathroom renovation with American Home Improvement. Our contractor was Jack Mair and he was awesome. Communicated consistently and sent over an amazing crew. The project came in on time and UNDER BUDGET. I would definitely work with them again.
Kelly W.
American Home improvement remodeled my two bathrooms at my house. I am very happy with the whole work that they did for me. All the workers that did the actual work truly knew what they were doing. When it was the time of the inspection, the inspector complemented the great job they did. I highly recommend American Home improvement. Thank you all!
Peter N.
I found this company on internet, they have many excellent recommendations so I contacted them because I needed my master bathroom remodeling. They answered quickly and very detailed. They gave me estimate next day and I was very satisfied, I hired them. The project started quickly after we signed a contract. The project manager Eli and his team did great job and I am very satisfied with my remodeled master bathroom. Now I see why this company have so many great recommendations, I also highly recommend American Home Improvement!
John G.
I heard for this contractor before from my friend and they redid his bathroom and it was fantastic work. I also needed a bathroom remodel so I asked for estimate which they gave me soon after that. It was acceptable so we made a deal. The whole team was very professional, they were always available to me if I needed some info or advice. The project was completed on time and within my budget. I was very satisfied with quality of work and with design. They did a perfect job!
Robert S.
I needed a garage conversion and I heard that American Home Improvement is right company for that job. They respond quickly to my quote and gave me best possible offer and I hired them. The project went perfect, on time and within budget. The result was as I expected, excellent. I highly recommend American Home Improvement, they are truly professionals!
Mike C.
Neev was my Senior Project Manager. He was very much on top of every aspect of the project. His communication was fantastic and customer satisfaction was at the top of his priorities. Every person on his crew was courteous and clean. We were in a time crunch and they got the job done on time as promised. The quality of the work is apparent and the finished product looks great. Me and my wife are very happy. We would recommend Neev and American Home Improvement without hesitation.
Dan S.
Thank you for beautiful patio you built for me. American Home Improvement is such a great company, one of the best from my experience. They were efficient, professional, finished on time and the work they did was very accurate, with no mistakes, quality at highest possible level. Will highly recommend to my friends and family and will definitely work with them again. I already contacted them for some future project!
Anthony C.
This was the BEST experience! Neev was so responsive, explained everything to me (multiple times) and finished the project early! I could always get a hold of him and the work is impeccable. I could ask as many questions as I wanted and really felt like they cared about my project. It was such a seamless process that I'm ready for my next project!
Jill G.
We hired American Home Improvement 5 months ago to do a complete remodeling to our new purchase house that was in a very bad shape but with big potential. At the end of the remodeling, we got the stunning results that we hoped to get. The accomplishment of our complete remodeling project, exceeded our hopes, visions and dreams. We moved to our house last week and the house is completely different and brand new! All of our guests and friends are in shock with the makeover of our house. We couldn’t be more pleased, happier or amazed with how our remodeling project came out.
Gerardo D.
We hired American Home Improvement to do an entire remodel of our kitchen. Under the leadership of Sam Shecter the crew had the job finished before the 5 week estimate. They showed up promptly every time they said they would, did their work, cleaned up their mess when finished and left it better than it was. Sam was often onsite and always available by phone. He was open to my suggestions and very easy to work with. They aren't the cheapest but they did an excellent job and I would definitely hire them again.
Linda L.
We remodeled our bathroom with Jack from American Home Improvement. From start to finish, the project went smoothly, even with COVID shipping delays. He was responsive and friendly in all interactions, from those with our kids to our skittish dog. The crews that he brought in were excellent and their craftsmanship is top notch. I would definitely hire them again in the future!
Katherine W.
