The Los Angeles Homeowner's Remodeling Guide (Free PDF)

Planning a remodel in Los Angeles? This free guide walks you through the four things that prevent most remodeling problems: a realistic budget, a verified contractor, a clear contract and a written timeline. Read it below, or download the printable PDF version at the bottom of this page.

This guide is general information based on California and Los Angeles sources current as of 2026. It is not legal or financial advice. Rules change, so confirm details for your project with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) and your local building department.

1. Setting your budget

The Cost vs. Value Report published by the Journal of Light Construction estimates average costs for common projects in major cities. These are the 2025 averages for Los Angeles:

• Minor kitchen remodel, midrange: $29,765

• Major kitchen remodel, midrange: $86,214

• Major kitchen remodel, upscale: $171,369

• Bathroom remodel, midrange: $27,143

• Bathroom remodel, universal design (accessible): $44,580

• Bathroom remodel, upscale: $85,055

These are averages only. Your project may cost more or less.

Five steps to a realistic budget

1. Define the goal. A refresh, a full remodel, an addition or an ADU. Scope drives cost more than anything else.

2. Decide what stays. Keeping plumbing fixtures, appliances and walls in the same place usually costs far less than moving them.

3. Pick finishes early. Cabinets, counters, tile, fixtures and appliances can swing a budget by tens of thousands of dollars.

4. Keep a contingency. Older Los Angeles homes often hide outdated wiring, plumbing or water damage behind the walls. Set aside part of your budget for what demolition may uncover, and do not plan to spend it on upgrades.

5. Remember the extras. Plans, permits, temporary living costs and new furniture or window coverings are easy to forget.

Questions to ask about any estimate

• What exactly is included, and what is excluded?

• Which items are allowances, and how much is each allowance?

• Who pulls the permits, and are permit fees included?

• How are change orders priced and approved?

2. Checking a contractor's license

California's Contractors State License Board lets anyone look up a contractor for free at www.cslb.ca.gov ("Check a License") or by calling 800-321-CSLB (2752).

1. Get the license number in writing. It must appear on the contract.

2. Confirm the status is current and active, and that the business name matches the company you are talking to.

3. Match the classification to your project. "B, General Building" covers projects involving multiple trades, such as kitchens, bathrooms, additions and ADUs. "C" classifications cover single trades such as electrical or plumbing.

4. Check the bond and workers' compensation. California has required a $25,000 contractor license bond since January 1, 2023. The license page also shows whether the contractor carries workers' compensation or is exempt because it has no employees.

5. Ask for proof of general liability insurance. This is not shown on the CSLB page. Request a certificate of insurance and confirm it with the insurer.

When is a license required? Since January 1, 2025, an unlicensed person may only do work under $1,000 (labor and materials combined) when the work needs no permit and they hire no workers. If a permit is needed or workers are hired, a license is required at any price.

3. Reading your contract

California has specific rules for home improvement contracts. According to the CSLB:

• Written contract: required for home improvement projects over $500 in combined labor and materials.

• Down payment limit: no more than $1,000 or 10 percent of the contract price, whichever is less.

• Progress payments: payments cannot be more than the value of the work already performed.

• Right to cancel: generally three business days, or five business days if you are 65 or older.

• Salespeople: only a CSLB-registered home improvement salesperson can sign a contract for a contractor.

• Mechanics lien warning: the contract must include a notice explaining that unpaid subcontractors or suppliers can place a lien on your property.

What the contract should list

• Contractor's name, address, phone and license number

• A detailed description of the work, materials and equipment

• The total price and a payment schedule tied to completed work

• Start and completion dates

• Who obtains the building permits

• How changes to the scope (change orders) are handled

Tip: Before each payment, confirm that the work it covers is done. Ask for lien releases from the contractor, and from major subcontractors and suppliers, as you pay.

4. Planning your timeline

Every project is different, but most remodels move through the same stages. Ask your contractor for a written schedule that covers each one.

1. Consultation and estimate: site visit, goals, budget and a written estimate.

2. Design and selections: layout, drawings and choosing cabinets, counters, tile, fixtures and appliances.

3. Permits: plans are submitted for plan check. For ADUs, California law gives the city 60 days to approve or deny a complete application.

4. Ordering: long-lead items such as cabinets and windows are ordered so they arrive on time.

5. Construction and inspections: demolition, rough work, city inspections, then finishes.

6. Final walkthrough: you review the work, a punch list is completed, and the final inspection is signed off.

Living at home during a remodel

• Kitchen remodel: set up a temporary kitchen with a microwave, small refrigerator and coffee maker in another room.

• Only bathroom: plan for another place to shower while it is out of service.

• Dust and noise: ask how the work area will be sealed off and what hours the crew will work.

• Pets and kids: plan to keep them away from the work area.

• Communication: agree on one point of contact and a regular update schedule.

5. Your pre-hiring checklist

• I know my goal and my total budget, including a contingency

• I looked up the contractor's license at cslb.ca.gov

• The license is current, active and the right classification

• I checked the bond and workers' compensation status

• I received a certificate of general liability insurance

• I have a detailed written estimate with allowances listed

• The contract shows the license number, scope, price and payment schedule

• The down payment is no more than $1,000 or 10 percent, whichever is less

• Payments are tied to completed work

• The contract says who pulls the permits

• I understand my right to cancel (3 business days, or 5 if I am 65 or older)

• I have a written schedule and one point of contact

Ready to talk about your project?

Realco Home Remodeling is a licensed general contractor (CSLB License No. 1061619, B General Building) with general liability insurance and over 20 years of experience. We remodel kitchens and bathrooms and build ADUs, room additions and whole-home renovations throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding area, with one contract from design and permits to the final walkthrough. Call (818) 806-8173 or request a free estimate.

Download the printable guide

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