Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions - Lotus Construction Group

About Our Company

Who is Lotus Construction Group?

Lotus Construction Group is a full-service design-build remodeling company based in Claremont, California. We serve homeowners throughout the San Gabriel Valley, including communities like Claremont, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, La Verne, San Dimas, Glendora, and surrounding areas. Our mission is to serve as trusted advisors for our clients, prioritizing honesty, communication, integrity, and trust in every project. We specialize in high-end residential remodeling, from kitchen and bathroom renovations to whole-house transformations.

What areas do you serve?

We are based in Claremont, CA and primarily serve the San Gabriel Valley region. This includes Claremont, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, La Verne, San Dimas, Pomona, Glendora, Azusa, Covina, West Covina, and surrounding communities in the Inland Empire. We typically work within a 30-mile radius of our Claremont office to ensure we can provide excellent service and be readily available throughout your project.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes, Lotus Construction Group is fully licensed and insured to perform residential construction projects in California. We maintain all required contractor licenses and carry comprehensive general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. We comply with all local building codes and regulations in San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties, ensuring your project is completed safely, legally, and to the highest standards.

Services We Offer

What services does Lotus Construction Group provide?

We offer comprehensive design-build services including:

Kitchen remodeling and renovation
Bathroom remodeling (master baths, guest baths, powder rooms)
Whole house remodeling and renovations
New Custom Homes
Home additions (room additions, second stories)
Outdoor living spaces (patios, outdoor kitchens, fire pits)
Landscaping and hardscaping
Custom cabinetry and built-ins
Structural modifications and house lifting
Sustainable and eco-friendly remodeling
Accessibility modifications and aging-in-place renovations

Do you specialize in kitchen remodeling in Claremont?

Yes, kitchen remodeling is one of our core specialties. We create high-end, luxurious kitchens throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Our kitchen remodels include custom cabinetry, premium countertops (quartz, granite, marble), state-of-the-art appliances, innovative layouts, and stunning backsplashes. We handle everything from minor kitchen updates to complete gut renovations, always focusing on both beauty and functionality.

Can you handle bathroom remodels?

Absolutely. We specialize in transforming bathrooms into spa-like retreats. Our bathroom remodeling services include master bathroom renovations, guest bathroom updates, powder room makeovers, and accessibility modifications. We work with premium materials including custom tile work, luxury fixtures, frameless glass showers, soaking tubs, heated floors, and modern vanities. Whether you want a contemporary look or classic elegance, we'll create a bathroom that matches your vision.

Do you do whole house remodels in the San Gabriel Valley?

Yes, whole house remodeling is a significant part of our business. We manage comprehensive home transformations that can include reconfiguring floor plans, updating all finishes, modernizing systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), and completely reimagining how your home functions. Our design-build approach is especially beneficial for whole house projects because we manage every aspect from initial concept through final construction.

Can you build home additions?

Yes, we design and build home additions including room additions, second-story additions, and bump-outs. Whether you need more square footage for a growing family, want to add a home office, or need a dedicated guest suite, we can help. We handle all aspects including structural engineering, foundation work, framing, and ensuring the addition blends seamlessly with your existing home's architecture.

Do you offer outdoor remodeling services?

Yes, we create stunning outdoor living spaces including covered patios, outdoor kitchens, built-in BBQ islands, fire pits, pergolas, and complete landscape designs. We understand that Southern California's climate makes outdoor spaces an extension of your home, and we design them to be both beautiful and functional year-round.

Design-Build Process

What is the design-build process?

Design-build is a project delivery method where Lotus Construction Group handles both the design and construction phases of your project under one contract. Instead of hiring a separate architect or designer and then a contractor, you work with our single team throughout. This streamlined approach offers better communication, faster timelines, more cohesive design, and a single point of accountability. From your initial concept through final walkthrough, we manage every detail.

How is design-build different from traditional remodeling?

In traditional remodeling, you hire an architect or designer separately from the contractor, which can lead to miscommunication, finger-pointing when issues arise, and longer timelines. With our design-build approach, the design and construction teams collaborate from day one. This means fewer change orders, better problem-solving, more accurate budgets, and a smoother overall experience. You have one team, one contract, and one point of contact throughout your project.

What is your design-build analysis phase?

Our design-build analysis phase is an educational process focused on helping you make informed decisions rather than pushing you toward a sale. During this phase, we evaluate your goals, assess your home's existing conditions, explore design options, provide preliminary pricing, and help you understand what's possible within your budget. We believe in empowering clients with knowledge so they can confidently move forward with their project.

Timeline and Process

How long does a typical kitchen remodel take?

A standard kitchen remodel with Lotus Construction Group typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from demolition to completion. The exact timeline depends on the scope of work. A simple cosmetic update (new cabinets, countertops, and appliances without moving plumbing or walls) might take 4-6 weeks, while a complete gut renovation with layout changes could take 12-16 weeks. We provide a detailed timeline during the planning phase so you know exactly what to expect.

How long does a bathroom remodel take?

Most bathroom remodels take between 4 to 8 weeks. A straightforward master bathroom renovation typically takes 4-5=8 weeks, while smaller guest bathrooms might be completed in 3-4 weeks. If your project involves significant structural changes, custom tile work, or system upgrades, it may extend to 8-12 weeks. We always provide a clear timeline before work begins.

What's the timeline for a whole house remodel?

Whole house remodels are larger undertakings that typically range from 4 to 6 months, depending on the size of your home and scope of work. Factors that affect timeline include square footage, extent of structural changes, level of custom finishes, and whether you're staying in the home during construction. During our planning phase, we create a detailed schedule with milestones so you understand the entire timeline.

Can I live in my home during the remodel?

It depends on the scope of your project. For single-room remodels like kitchens or bathrooms, many clients stay in their homes with some inconvenience. We section off work areas, maintain cleanliness, and work efficiently to minimize disruption. For whole house remodels, we typically recommend finding temporary housing for safety, comfort, and to allow work to progress more quickly. We'll discuss the best approach for your specific project during our consultation.

What does your typical project process look like?

Our process includes:

Initial Consultation - Free meeting to discuss your vision, budget, and timeline
Design Phase - Collaborative design development with 3D renderings if requested and detailed plans
Budgeting - Transparent cost breakdown and contract preparation
Permitting - We handle all required permits and approvals
Construction - Skilled craftsmen execute the build with regular communication
Quality Checks - Ongoing inspections to ensure excellence
Final Walkthrough - Detailed review to ensure your complete satisfaction
Post-Project Support - We're here for you even after completion

Costs and Budgeting

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Claremont?

Kitchen remodeling costs in the Claremont and San Gabriel Valley area vary widely based on size, materials, and scope. A mid-range kitchen remodel typically ranges from $100,000 to $180,000, while high-end luxury kitchens can range from $180,000 to $300,000 or more. Factors affecting cost include cabinet quality, countertop materials, appliance selection, flooring, lighting, and whether you're changing the layout. We provide detailed, transparent estimates during our consultation process.

What does a bathroom remodel cost?

Bathroom remodeling costs in our service area typically range from $55,000 to $95,000 depending on size and finishes. A guest bathroom renovation might start around $45,000-$100,000, while a luxury master bathroom could range from $150,000 to $200,000 or more. Costs depend on tile selection, fixtures, custom shower enclosures, vanity choices, and structural modifications. We provide itemized estimates so you understand exactly where your investment goes.

How much does a whole house remodel cost?

Whole house remodels in the San Gabriel Valley typically range from $350 to $750+ per square foot, depending on the level of finishes and extent of renovation. For a 2,000 square foot home, this could mean $700,000 to $1,500,000+ for a comprehensive remodel. Factors include structural changes, system upgrades, finish quality, and how much of the home is being renovated. We help you prioritize investments to maximize value within your budget.

Do you provide free estimates?

No, but we offer free initial consultations where we discuss your project goals, budget, and vision. After our consultation, if you'd like to move forward, we enter our design-build analysis phase where we develop preliminary designs and provide detailed cost estimates. This ensures our pricing is accurate and based on your specific requirements rather than general ballpark figures.

How do you keep projects on budget?

We use a transparent pricing model and meticulous planning to keep projects on budget. Our process includes:

Detailed cost estimates before work begins
Clear allowances for materials and fixtures
Regular communication about any potential changes
Written change order process
Tracking expenses throughout the project
Value engineering when needed to meet budget goals

By managing both design and construction, we can make real-time decisions that keep your project financially on track.

Do you offer financing options?

While we don't provide financing directly, we're happy to recommend trusted lenders who specialize in renovation financing and can help you explore the best options for your situation.

Quality and Materials

What quality of materials do you use?

We use high-quality, durable materials appropriate for each project's budget and goals. We work with premium suppliers and can source everything from luxury custom cabinetry to builder-grade options, depending on your preferences. We educate clients about material options, longevity, maintenance requirements, and cost differences so you can make informed choices. We never compromise on structural materials but offer flexibility in finish selections to meet various budgets.

Can I choose my own materials and finishes?

Absolutely. Client choice is important to us. While we provide expert guidance and recommendations, you make the final decisions on materials, fixtures, colors, and finishes. We can work with products you've selected or help you shop for materials at local showrooms. Our goal is to bring your vision to life while offering professional insights to help you make the best choices.

Do you provide design services?

Yes, design is integrated into our design-build process. Our team includes designers who create detailed plans, 3D renderings, and material selections. Unlike hiring a separate architect or designer, our design team works hand-in-hand with our construction team, ensuring designs are both beautiful and buildable. This collaboration results in better outcomes and fewer surprises during construction.

Do you offer sustainable or green remodeling options?

Yes, we're committed to sustainable remodeling practices. We offer eco-friendly options including energy-efficient windows and doors, LED lighting, low-VOC paints, sustainable flooring options, water-efficient fixtures, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and sustainable materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood. We can help you achieve green building certifications if desired and always look for opportunities to improve your home's energy efficiency.

Project Management

Who will be working on my project?

Your project will be managed by experienced project managers from Lotus Construction Group who oversee day-to-day operations. We employ skilled, professional craftsmen and also work with trusted sub-contractors for specialized trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC). All workers are vetted professionals who maintain our high standards for quality and professionalism. You'll have a dedicated point of contact throughout your project.

How do you handle permits and inspections?

We handle all required permits and inspections for your project. This includes submitting plans to the city or county, scheduling inspections, and ensuring all work meets code requirements. In the San Gabriel Valley, we're familiar with requirements in Claremont, Upland, La Verne, and surrounding municipalities. We coordinate with building departments so you don't have to worry about compliance issues.

What happens if there are unexpected issues during construction?

Unexpected issues sometimes arise in remodeling, especially in older homes. When we encounter surprises like hidden water damage, outdated electrical, or structural concerns, we immediately communicate with you, present solutions, and provide transparent pricing for addressing the issues. Our design-build approach allows us to problem-solve quickly and keep your project moving forward. We document everything and never proceed without your approval.

How do you communicate during the project?

Communication is a cornerstone of our approach. We provide:

Regular progress updates via your preferred method (text, email, phone)
Weekly check-in meetings or calls
Photos of work in progress
Access to project schedules and timelines
Quick responses to questions or concerns
Transparency about any challenges or changes

We believe informed clients are happy clients, so we prioritize keeping you in the loop throughout your project.

How clean do you keep the work site?

We maintain a clean, safe work site throughout your project. Our team cleans up at the end of each workday, contains dust and debris to work areas, protects your existing finishes and belongings, and performs a thorough final cleaning before project completion. We understand you're living with construction, and we do everything possible to minimize disruption and maintain a respectful, clean environment.What advanced dust control measures do you use on all projects?

Dust control is a priority on every Lotus Construction Group project, regardless of the home's age. We use professional-grade dust control systems including:

HEPA Filtration: All our power tools are equipped with HEPA-filtered dust collection systems that capture 99.97% of particles. We also use HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to continuously clean the air in work areas.

Containment Systems: We install ZipWall barriers or heavy-duty plastic containment systems with sealed edges to isolate work areas. For larger projects, we use airlocks and create negative air pressure to prevent dust migration.

Source Control: We use dust-reducing techniques such as wet cutting, wet sanding, and water misting during demolition to minimize airborne particles at their source.

Protection Protocols: We protect your HVAC system, furniture, floors, and belongings with appropriate coverings. We also use walk-off mats and shoe covers to prevent tracking.

Daily Maintenance: Our crews perform thorough HEPA vacuuming and cleaning at the end of each workday, not just at project completion.

These practices ensure your home stays as clean as possible during construction and protect your indoor air quality, whether your home was built in 1950 or 2020.

Why is construction dust control so important?

Construction dust isn't just a nuisance—it can pose serious health risks and damage your home. Renovation dust can contain:

Silica: From cutting concrete, tile, or stone, which can cause respiratory issues
Wood dust: A known respiratory irritant and potential carcinogen
Drywall dust: Creates fine particles that settle throughout homes and are difficult to remove
Lead: In pre-1978 homes, extremely hazardous especially to children
Other contaminants: Including mold spores, asbestos (in older homes), and various chemicals

Beyond health concerns, construction dust can:

Damage HVAC systems by clogging filters and entering ductwork
Settle on electronics and appliances, causing premature failure
Scratch hardwood floors and delicate surfaces
Require extensive post-construction cleaning if not properly contained

At Lotus Construction Group, our advanced dust control systems protect your family's health, preserve your home's systems and finishes, and make the renovation process much more livable. We donWorking with Us

Why should I choose Lotus Construction Group?

Clients choose us because we prioritize relationships over transactions. Our design-build approach provides a streamlined, less stressful experience. We're transparent about pricing, proactive in communication, and committed to exceptional craftsmanship. Our team treats your home with respect, our analysis phase educates rather than pressures, and our local presence in Claremont means we're invested in our community. We don't just build projects; we build lasting relationships based on trust and integrity.

What makes you different from other contractors?

Several factors set us apart:

Design-Build Expertise - Single point of accountability for design and construction
Education-First Approach - We empower clients with knowledge rather than pushing sales
Local Presence - Based in Claremont, deeply familiar with the San Gabriel Valley
Transparent Pricing - Detailed estimates with clear explanations
Skilled Craftsmen - High-quality work by experienced professionals
Communication - Regular updates and accessible project managers
Integrity - We do what we say and stand behind our work

Do you have references or can I see past work?

Yes, we're proud of our portfolio and happy to share it. You can view completed projects on our website, and we can provide references from past clients in the San Gabriel Valley area. Many of our clients have become advocates for our work and are willing to share their experiences. We can also arrange tours of completed projects when available.

How do I get started with Lotus Construction Group?

Getting started is easy:

Contact us via phone, email, or our website contact form
Schedule your free initial consultation
Meet with our team to discuss your vision, budget, and timeline
Receive a proposal outlining our approach and process
Move into design phase if you decide to work with us

There's no pressure or obligation after our initial consultation. We want to ensure we're the right fit for your project and that you feel confident in your decision.

Do you warranty your work?

Yes, we stand behind our workmanship and provide warranties on our construction work. Specific warranty terms vary by project type and materials used, but we typically provide a one tyear workmanship warranty on our construction. Materials and fixtures carry manufacturer warranties, which we help you understand and document. We're committed to your satisfaction long after project completion.

Specialty Questions

Lead Safety and RRP Compliance

Is Lotus Construction Group EPA Lead-Safe Certified?

Yes, Lotus Construction Group is fully EPA Lead-Safe Certified and complies with all EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule requirements. Our team includes EPA-certified renovators who have completed the required 8-hour Lead-Safe Certified Renovator training course. We maintain current certifications and follow all lead-safe work practices to protect you, your family, and our workers from lead exposure during renovation projects.

What is the EPA RRP Rule and does it apply to my home?

The EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule is a federal regulation that went into effect in 2010 to protect families from lead-based paint hazards during renovation, repair, and painting activities. The rule applies to homes and child-occupied facilities built before 1978, when lead-based paint was banned for residential use. If your home in the San Gabriel Valley was built before 1978—which includes many beautiful mid-century homes in Claremont, Upland, and surrounding areas—it likely contains lead-based paint, especially if it was built before 1960. The RRP Rule requires that contractors working in these homes be certified and follow specific lead-safe work practices.

How do you handle lead paint in pre-1978 homes?

For all homes built before 1978, we assume lead-based paint is present unless testing proves otherwise. Before starting work, we provide you with the EPA's "Renovate Right" pamphlet explaining the hazards of lead-based paint. Our EPA-certified renovators follow strict lead-safe work practices including proper containment, dust control, cleanup procedures, and cleaning verification. We can also arrange for lead paint testing if you'd like to know definitively whether lead paint is present in the areas we'll be renovating. All our practices are designed to minimize lead dust creation and prevent contamination of living areas.

What are lead-safe work practices?

Lead-safe work practices are specific techniques required by the EPA to prevent lead exposure during renovation work. At Lotus Construction Group, our lead-safe practices include:

Containment: We isolate work areas with plastic sheeting on floors, furniture, and surfaces. For interior work, we close and seal doors, HVAC vents, and windows to prevent dust migration. For exterior work, we cover the ground with plastic sheeting and prevent dust from entering the home.

Prohibited Practices: We never use work methods that create excessive dust, such as open-flame burning of paint, heat guns above 1,100°F, or power tools without HEPA-filtered exhaust controls.

Warning Signs: We post signs at work area entrances warning occupants and visitors about renovation work and lead hazards.

Waste Containment: We contain all paint chips, dust, and debris to prevent contamination of other areas.

Personal Protection: Our workers use appropriate personal protective equipment and follow protocols to prevent tracking lead dust throughout your home.

Do you provide the "Renovate Right" pamphlet?

Yes, before beginning any renovation work in a pre-1978 home or child-occupied facility, we are required by federal law to provide the EPA's "Renovate Right" pamphlet to property owners and occupants. This pamphlet explains the potential hazards of lead-based paint, how we'll minimize risks, and your rights under the RRP Rule. We deliver this pamphlet no more than 60 days and no less than 7 days before work begins, and we document receipt with a signed acknowledgment form that we keep in our records.

What is your dust control and cleanup process?

Dust control is critical for both lead safety and maintaining a clean, healthy work environment. Our comprehensive dust control process includes:

During Work:

Containing work areas with heavy-duty plastic sheeting
Using HEPA-filtered vacuum attachments on all power tools
Wet methods for cutting, sanding, and demolition when possible
Regular misting to keep dust settled
Minimizing dust generation through careful work practices

Daily Cleanup:

Cleaning the work site at the end of each workday
Using HEPA vacuums to remove dust and debris
Containing waste in sealed bags
Preventing dust migration to living areas
Keeping pathways clean and protected

Final Cleaning (for RRP projects):

Thorough HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces in the work area from ceiling to floor
Two-bucket wet mopping method or wet wiping of all surfaces
Misting plastic sheeting before removal to prevent dust dispersion
Careful collection and disposal of all paint chips and debris
Cleaning verification procedure to ensure work area is clean

What is cleaning verification and when is it required?

Cleaning verification is a required step under the EPA RRP Rule to ensure that our cleanup has been effective and your home is safe. After completing the final cleaning in a pre-1978 home, our certified renovator performs a visual inspection to ensure no dust, debris, or paint chips remain. We then wipe designated surfaces with a white disposable cleaning cloth—if the cloth shows no dust or debris, we've passed verification. For extra assurance, we can also arrange for clearance testing by a certified lead inspector or dust sampling technician who will collect dust wipe samples and have them analyzed by an EPA-recognized laboratory to confirm lead levels are safe.

How do you contain dust in occupied homes?

When you're living in your home during renovation, dust containment becomes even more critical. Our containment strategies include:

Physical Barriers: Heavy-duty reusable sheeting sealed with tape to create airtight barriers between work and living areas
Negative Air Pressure: HEPA-filtered air scrubbers that create negative pressure in work areas, preventing dust from escaping
Sealed Pathways: Protected walkways with sealed edges for workers to access the work area
HVAC Isolation: Sealing or covering HVAC vents and returns to prevent dust entering ductwork
Daily Cleaning: Thorough cleanup before workers leave each day, including HEPA vacuuming of containment barriers
Air Quality Monitoring: Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of dust control measures

What happens to lead-contaminated waste?

All waste from pre-1978 renovation projects is handled as if it contains lead. We collect all paint chips, dust, and debris in heavy-duty plastic bags that are sealed before removal from the work area. Waste is properly labeled and disposed of in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. We maintain documentation of waste disposal as part of our recordkeeping requirements. Under no circumstances do we allow lead-contaminated materials to contaminate non-work areas or be improperly discarded.

How long do you keep RRP records?

As required by the EPA RRP Rule, we maintain detailed records of all renovation projects in pre-1978 housing for at least three years after completion. Our records include documentation of pre-renovation education (signed Renovate Right forms), lead test results if testing was conducted, on-site training documentation for workers, cleaning verification reports, and any other compliance documentation. These records are available to you upon request and can be provided to regulatory agencies if needed.

Can I opt out of lead-safe work practices?

No. The EPA eliminated the opt-out provision in 2010 because there's no way to guarantee that children will never live in or visit a dwelling. All contractors working in pre-1978 homes for compensation must follow lead-safe work practices, regardless of the owner's preferences. This requirement protects not only current occupants but also future occupants, visitors, and our workers. At Lotus Construction Group, we believe this is the right approach—lead safety is not optional, it's essential.

Can you help with historic home renovations in Claremont?

Yes, we have experience working with mid-century and historic homes throughout Claremont and the San Gabriel Valley. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities these homes present, from preserving character features to updating systems behind the walls. We're also experienced in handling the lead paint issues common in these older homes through our EPA-certified lead-safe practices. We can help you modernize your historic home while respecting its architectural heritage and protecting your family's health.Can you help with historic home renovations in Claremont?

Do you do aging-in-place or accessibility modifications?

Yes, we design and build accessibility modifications to help homeowners age in place safely and comfortably. This includes zero-threshold showers, grab bars, wider doorways, improved lighting, non-slip flooring, stair lifts, and other modifications that allow you to remain in your home as your needs change. We can incorporate universal design principles that provide accessibility without compromising aesthetics.

Can you work with my architect or designer?

While our design-build model typically includes design services, we can collaborate with your architect or designer if you prefer. We're flexible and can adapt our process to work with existing plans while still providing the construction management and craftsmanship we're known for.

Do you handle structural work and foundation issues?

Yes, we can handle structural modifications, foundation work, and house lifting services. We work with structural engineers when needed to ensure all work meets safety standards and code requirements. Whether you need to remove a load-bearing wall, repair foundation issues, or lift a house to add living space underneath, we have the expertise and partnerships to complete the work properly.

What if I want to make changes during construction?

Changes during construction are common in remodeling projects. When you want to make a change, we evaluate the impact on budget and timeline, provide a written change order with clear pricing, and get your approval before proceeding. Our transparent process ensures you understand the implications of any changes and can make informed decisions.

Ready to Transform Your Home?

Lotus Construction Group is your trusted partner for design-build remodeling in Claremont and throughout the San Gabriel Valley. We're committed to honesty, integrity, and exceptional craftsmanship on every project.

Contact us today for your free consultation:

Visit us at: Claremont, CA
Serving: San Gabriel Valley, including Claremont, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, La Verne, San Dimas, and surrounding communities
Services: Kitchen Remodeling, Bathroom Remodeling, Whole House Renovations, Home Additions, Outdoor Living, and More

Let's bring your vision to life with a remodeling experience built on trust, communication, and excellence.