FAQ

  • Do I need a Permit for a deck project in Omaha?

    A: Not always, but in most cases it provides much better security for the homeowners. If we are doing your project and a permit is required by local code, we will handle the permit application and coordinate all inspections for you.

  • Can I get an estimate over the phone?

    A: Usually yes. We can give a ballpark estimate from photos and a phone call. For a formal, written proposal we often recommend a short on-site consultation.

  • How soon can you start?

    A: It depends. Small repairs can often start in a few weeks. Larger jobs may need special-ordered materials or permit approval and can take longer. We’ll give a better timeline during the phone estimate or home visit.

  • Do I need to include pictures with the contact form?

    A: Photos help us give fast, accurate information. If you can’t send photos, we’ll schedule a home visit to assess the deck before giving an estimate.

  • Can I add onto an existing deck?

    A: Usually yes. This will be influenced strongly by the local building codes. We can guide you through the process during a phone call estimate or home consultation.

  • Do I have to bring the whole deck up to code when doing a repair in Omaha?

    A: Almost always. There are some jurisdictions in the Omaha metro areas that only require the “New Work” to be up to current code. Omaha Building department does require any deck repair requiring a permit to include bringing the entire deck up to current code.

  • Is it hard to bring an existing deck up to code?

    A: There are several updates to the building codes over the years to minimize deck failures. These small changes greatly increase the safety of the deck and can usually be done in less than a day. This can be discussed during a home consultation and we can layout a plan to make your deck safe again.

  • What happens if we choose not to apply for a permit?

    A: in the event you choose not to apply for a permit for your project, typically it will incur a fine of 4x the original permit fee. And will require proving that any work done was done according to the current code. Which can be quite involved and expensive. And even worse, if there is ever an event involving insurance, the insurance company is usually not required to cover work done without a permit. Leaving the homeowners responsible for 100% of the burden.

    (Even if the non-permitted work was done by a contractor, the final responsibility still falls on the homeowner.)