When you’re planning an ADU, a remodel, or an addition, you’ll hear two titles: general contractor and building consultant. They do different jobs — and understanding the difference can save your family a lot of money and stress.
What Does a General Contractor Do?
A general contractor builds your project. They manage the trades, schedule the work, keep the job site safe, and make sure what’s built matches the approved plans.
What Does a Building Consultant Do?
A building consultant helps you decide what to build before you build it. They evaluate your property, talk through your family’s needs, estimate realistic costs, and tell you honestly whether an ADU, a remodel, or an addition makes the most sense.
Why the Order Matters
Most homeowners call a contractor first and ask for a price on one specific thing. But if that thing isn’t the right solution, a good price doesn’t help. Getting advice first means the project you build is the one your family actually needs.
The Advantage of Having Both
IWCC brings both under one roof: more than 20 years as a building consultant and 40 years in the building trade. The people who help you plan are the same people accountable for building it — so nothing gets lost in a handoff.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Are you licensed for this work? (We’re CA B-General Contractor #1037890 and AZ KB-1 ROC #358430.) Will you evaluate my property before quoting? Will you tell me if a different option would serve my family better? The answers will tell you a lot.
Talk to a Building Expert
Call Tom Puorro at 714-907-3849 or Don Meinberg at 951-522-1749. One conversation is often enough to know which direction is right.