Home Improvement in Berkeley

Verify licenses, check permit requirements, and see project ROI for your Berkeley home.

Available Services in Berkeley

Decks

ROI: 77.4%
Est. Cost:$3,500 - 25,000
Resale Value:+$18,664
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Fencing

Est. Cost:$1,500 - 8,000
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Kitchen Remodel

ROI: 33.9%
Est. Cost:$12,000 - 85,000
Resale Value:+$52,933
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Bathroom Remodel

ROI: 27.3%
Est. Cost:$8,000 - 45,000
Resale Value:+$27,610
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Home Addition

Est. Cost:$40,000 - 200,000
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Windows

ROI: 51.5%
Est. Cost:$400 - 1,500
Resale Value:+$13,344
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Garage Doors

ROI: 190%
Est. Cost:$800 - 4,500
Resale Value:+$7,600
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Siding

ROI: 82%
Est. Cost:$5,000 - 25,000
Resale Value:+$13,145
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The Three Risks of the 'Gig Economy'

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Supplier Debt Lawsuits

Cheap contractors often rob Peter to pay Paul. When they default on lumber bills for your project, Berkeley law allows suppliers to sue you directly for the balance.

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Stop Work Orders

City inspectors patrol Berkeley daily. Unpermitted work gets red-tagged immediately. You will pay **double permit fees** plus administrative fines to resolve it.

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Bankruptcy Risk

A single injury on your property can exceed your homeowner's liability cap. Uninsured 'handymen' expose your personal savings to massive medical claims.

Housing Insights for Berkeley

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Permit Requirements

Most exterior projects in Berkeley (Decks over 30", Fences over 6', Additions) require a building permit from the local building department. Always ensure your contractor pulls the permit in their name.