Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
Q: What kinds of projects do you take on?
A: Custom decks (composite & wood), three & four season porches, garage builds, home additions, basement finishes, and whole house remodeling. We’re not taking stand alone bathroom remodels right now.
Q: How do I get a quote?
A: Start with a short consult call, then an on site walk through. You’ll get a written scope outline and a ballpark. If it’s a fit, we move into design/selections and produce a firm line item estimate with schedule targets.
Q: What’s your timeline to start?
A: Starts shift with season and permitting. Typical lead times after approvals: Decks 2–4 wks, Porches 6–10 wks, Basements 6–10 wks, Garages 4–8 wks, Additions 8–16+ wks. We’ll give you a milestone calendar you can plan around.
Q: Project minimums?
A: We focus on multi trade projects. If your scope is small or repair only, ask—if we’re not the best fit, we’ll try to point you to someone who is.
Design, Permits & HOAs
Q: Do you provide design help?
A: Yes—ranging from layout guidance and selections to plans/engineering when required (porches/additions/garages). We review drawings with you before ordering.
Q: Who pulls the permit?
A: We do. We also coordinate inspections and close out. For HOA neighborhoods, we assemble the submittal packet (elevations, materials, colors) and respond to board questions.
Q: What about code items like ledger flashing, footings, and egress?
A: We build to Minnesota code (and manufacturer specs). Expect proper footings/frost protection, ledger attachment with continuous flashing, rail post blocking, and egress where required.
Budget, Pricing & Payments
Q: How accurate are your estimates?
A: You’ll see an itemized estimate. Pricing is locked after design/selections. If scope changes, we issue a written change order with cost/timeline impact—you approve before we proceed.
Q: Do you use allowances?
A: Yes, where choices vary (lighting, fixtures, some finishes). Allowances are clearly labeled and reconciled at order.
Q: What’s the payment schedule?
A: Milestone based (e.g., deposit → materials → framing/rough in → finishes → substantial completion). We’ll outline it in your contract. ACH/check preferred; card processing fees may apply if you choose a card.
Q: Do you offer financing?
A: We don’t offer in house financing. Many clients use HELOCs or home improvement loans. We can provide documents your lender may request (estimate, schedule, insurance).
During the Build
Q: Who will be on site?
A: Our project managers run the day to day; licensed, insured subs handle permitted trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC). Everyone is vetted.
Q: How do you communicate status?
A: Expect weekly updates (what’s done / what’s next) plus same day notices if anything shifts. You’ll know who’s on site and when.
Q: What are your work hours?
A: Typical weekdays, daylight hours, aligned to local ordinances. We coordinate any early deliveries or noisy work ahead of time. Our office hours are 7:30am - 5:00pm.
Q: How do you protect my home?
A: Surface protection, dust containment where feasible, and daily cleanup. Tools stored safely; walk paths cleared at day’s end.
Q: Where do the dumpster and materials go?
A: We plan this with you before mobilization (driveway/curbside, avoiding sprinklers and utilities).
Q: Can we live in the home during the project?
A: Usually, yes for decks/porches/basements; additions/whole house often require staged areas.
Q: Pets, kids, and access?
A: Please keep pets and kids out of the work area. We’ll set up a lockbox or access plan; tell us about any security systems.
Q: What if you uncover hidden issues (rot, wiring, structural)?
A: We document with photos, propose the fix, price it in a written change order, and proceed only with your approval.
Q: Weather delays?
A: Minnesota weather is real. We buffer schedules and communicate any changes immediately with the updated plan.
Quality, Inspections & Warranty
Q: How do you ensure quality?
A: Experienced leads, vetted subs, code correct details (flashing, waterproofing, structural connections), and documented inspections. You’ll see photo updates for key stages.
Q: What’s your warranty?
A: We honor Minnesota’s statutory warranties: 1 year workmanship & materials; 2 years installation of plumbing/electrical/HVAC systems; 10 years for major structural defects (load bearing components like foundation, framing, roof structure). Appliances are covered by their manufacturer warranties. To preserve coverage, report issues in writing within six months of discovery and we’ll inspect and repair under the state’s right to repair process.
Q: How do I submit a warranty claim?
A: Email office@bnbuildersinc.com (or your project manager) with your name, address, photos/video, and a brief description. We’ll confirm receipt and schedule an inspection.
Q: Do you provide lien waivers and insurance certificates?
A: Yes—available upon request and provided at appropriate milestones.
Materials & Selections
Q: Can you match my existing siding/roofing?
A: Yes, we’ll get as close as current products allow. For discontinued items, we’ll review the best alternatives.
Q: Composite vs. wood deck—what do you recommend?
A: Depends on look, budget, and maintenance. We build both. We’re happy to walk you through options and samples (e.g., Trex Transcend, cedar/treated).
Q: Lead times on windows/doors and specialty items?
A: These can affect schedule (often several weeks). We verify lead times before finalizing your calendar.
Changes & Extras
Q: Can I change selections after we start?
A: Yes—through a written change order showing cost and timeline impact. Some changes may affect lead times.
Q: Do you handle small repairs?
A: Our focus is on larger, multi trade projects. For minor repairs, ask—we’ll advise or refer if we’re not the best fit.
Q: Will you photograph my project?
A: Yes. We avoid house numbers and license plates and will blur them if needed. Photos help future clients see real work.
Communication & Next Steps
Q: How often will I hear from you?
A: Weekly written updates plus prompt replies during business hours.
Q: What do you need from me to keep things on schedule?
A: Make selections by the deadlines, approve drawings/change orders within 48 hours, keep access routes clear, and give us a heads up on vacations or access changes.
Q: How do we get started?
A: Call (651) 423-7248, email office@bnbuildersinc.com, or Request a Quote. We’ll schedule your consult.
Let's Talk About Your Project
Contact Information
Working Hours
- Mon - Fri: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
- Weekend: Closed