General Contractor & Custom Home Builder in Santa Monica, CA
Licensed
Bonded
Insured
Looking for a contractor in Santa Monica who actually shows up, communicates clearly, and does the work right? That's Arbor Construction. We handle everything from custom home builds and full remodels to kitchens, bathrooms, ADUs, HVAC, and plumbing - all under one roof, all in Santa Monica.
CA Licensed
Fully Bonded & Insured
Santa Monica Permit Experts
Free Estimates - No Obligation
16+ Years
Serving Los Angeles
16+ Projects
Completed
CA LIC #941491
CSLB Licensed
Trusted by Locals
Santa Monica, LA
WHO WE ARE
Santa Monica is a city people work hard to live in. The homes here deserve to be treated that way.
Arbor Construction is a licensed general contractor serving Santa Monica, CA - from the grand estates of North of Montana to the charming bungalows of Ocean Park and the family homes of Sunset Park. We've worked in every corner of this city and we understand what makes it different: the coastal climate, the permitting process through the City of Santa Monica Planning and Community Development Department, the Coastal Zone requirements, and the architectural character that makes each neighborhood its own.
We're licensed, bonded, and insured. Whether you're building a new custom home, doing a full remodel, converting a garage into an ADU, or updating your kitchen and bathrooms, we handle the entire project under a single contract with a single team and a single point of contact.
No subcontracting chaos. No disappearing acts. Just honest work done right in Santa Monica.
Our Construction & Remodeling Services in Santa Monica
We're a full-service general contractor. One team handles your entire project - from permits to final walk-through. Here's everything we offer in Santa Monica:
Custom Home Builder in Santa Monica
Building a custom home in Santa Monica takes more than just construction skills - it takes someone who knows the city's planning process, understands coastal zone requirements,
We manage everything from the first site visit through architectural coordination, City of Santa Monica building permits, construction, and final inspections. You stay in the loop on every decision without having to manage the process yourself.
That's exactly the kind of work we do.
Full design-build coordination
City of Santa Monica permit management
Coastal Zone compliance
New residential & commercial construction
Premium materials & finishes throughout
Home Remodeling & Renovation in Santa Monica
Santa Monica homes are as varied as the people who live in them - Craftsman bungalows in Ocean Park, mid-century ranches in Sunset Park, stately estates North of Montana. We've worked on all of them.
Our remodeling team handles everything from single-room updates to full whole-home transformations. We respect the character of each property and make smart decisions about what to modernize and what to preserve.
Whole-home remodels and gut renovations
Room additions and second-story additions
Layout changes, wall removals, open-plan conversions
Interior upgrades - flooring, millwork, lighting, finishes
Residential & commercial remodeling
Kitchen Remodeling Santa Monica
Santa Monica kitchens have unique demands. The coastal climate calls for materials that hold up to humidity and salt air. The lifestyle calls for open, entertaining-friendly layouts. And the design standards in this city are high.
We design and build kitchens that meet all three. From small, space-optimized galley kitchens in older bungalows to large open-concept entertainer's kitchens in new builds, we bring the same level of craftsmanship and planning to every project.
Custom cabinetry built for coastal durability
Stone and quartz countertops - moisture-resistant options available
High-end appliance integration (Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, and more)
Open-concept layout conversions
Full plumbing and electrical coordination included
Bathroom Remodeling Santa Monica
Coastal living and luxury bathroom design go hand in hand in Santa Monica. We build bathrooms that feel like a retreat - walk-in showers with frameless glass, soaking tubs, radiant floor heat, custom vanities, and smart fixtures that work with your home's plumbing and coastal conditions.
We've remodeled bathrooms in every type of Santa Monica property - single-family homes, condos, duplexes, and multi-unit buildings. Every project gets the same attention to detail.
Custom walk-in showers with coastal-grade tile and frameless glass
Freestanding soaking tubs and built-in bath designs
Floating and custom-built vanities
Moisture-resistant materials and waterproofing throughout
Plumbing, electrical, and lighting fully coordinated
ADU Construction in Santa Monica
Santa Monica is one of the most ADU-friendly cities in California. The city actively encourages ADU development under California AB 2221, and the permitting process here - while specific - is well-established.
An ADU on your Santa Monica property can generate rental income, house a family member, or create a private home office or guest space. We design, permit, and build ADUs from start to finish - detached backyard units, attached additions, and garage conversions.
Site assessment and ADU feasibility review
Architectural design and city permit management
Full construction - foundation, framing, MEP, finishes
Garage conversion and JADU projects
Compliance with Santa Monica ADU ordinance and AB 2221
Construction Management Santa Monica
Already have an architect or designer? Need someone to manage the build without taking over the vision?
Our construction management service puts a dedicated project manager on your Santa Monica project. We coordinate every subcontractor, handle all city permit filings, track the budget, manage inspections, and keep you updated weekly. You stay in control without having to be on-site every day.
This service is popular with Santa Monica homeowners who travel frequently & work long hours.
Architect and subcontractor coordination
City of Santa Monica permit applications and inspections
Budget tracking and change order management
Quality control at every phase
Weekly written and photo progress updates
HVAC Services Santa Monica
Santa Monica's coastal microclimate is mild but specific - the marine layer keeps things cool and damp in the mornings, temperatures rise quickly midday, and ocean breezes bring humidity that standard HVAC systems aren't always designed for.
We install heating and cooling systems built for coastal conditions - energy-efficient, quiet, and designed to work with your home's architecture. All systems meet California's Title 24 energy efficiency standards as a baseline.
AC and heating installation, replacement, and upgrades
Energy-efficient and Title 24-compliant systems
Smart thermostat integration (Nest, Ecobee)
Ductwork, filters, and preventive maintenance
Both residential and commercial properties
Plumbing Services Santa Monica
From remodeling plumbing to emergency repairs to complete replumbing of older Santa Monica homes - our licensed plumbers handle it all. We work on single-family homes, condos, duplexes, and commercial properties throughout the city.
Santa Monica has a significant number of older homes with aging plumbing systems. We're experienced in upgrading them with quality materials and doing it in a way that minimizes disruption to the rest of the home.
Emergency plumbing repairs
Kitchen and bathroom plumbing for remodels
Water heater replacement and tankless upgrades
Drain cleaning and sewer line inspection
Full system replumbing for older homes
Electrical Services Santa Monica
Panel upgrades, EV charger installation, smart home electrical systems, lighting design - our licensed electricians handle the full scope of electrical work in Santa Monica homes and businesses.
Many of Santa Monica's older homes - especially in Ocean Park, Sunset Park, and Wilshire-Montana - were built with electrical systems that weren't designed for today's demands. We bring them up to current code safely and efficiently.
Electrical panel upgrades and full rewiring
EV charger installation (Level 2 and DC Fast Charging)
Smart home electrical systems and lighting design
Code-compliant work throughout
Residential and commercial electrical
Not sure which service you need?
We'll figure it out together - no obligation.
Working in Santa Monica - What Every Homeowner Should Know
Santa Monica has its own planning department, its own permitting rules, and its own coastal regulations that apply to properties near the ocean. Contractors who haven't worked here before often hit delays that could have been avoided. We've worked here for years - here's what you should know before starting any project in the city.
Permitting Through the City of Santa Monica
Permits for construction work in Santa Monica are issued by the City of Santa Monica Planning and Community Development Department - Building and Safety Division, located at City Hall. This is a completely separate permit authority from LADBS (Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety), and the two should not be confused.
As of January 1, 2026, all new permit submittals in Santa Monica are reviewed under the 2025 California Building Standards Code.
Permits are required for:
All structural work - new construction, additions, wall removals, foundation work
Electrical upgrades, panel replacements, new circuits, and full rewiring
Plumbing modifications, additions, and full replumbing
Mechanical and HVAC system installation or replacement
ADU construction and garage conversions
Re-roofing and major exterior changes
Work that typically does not require a permit:
Interior painting and flooring (no structural change)
Cabinet refacing (no plumbing or electrical change)
Minor landscaping
Arbor Construction handles the complete permit process - application, plan check submission, required reports, and all city inspections. You do not need to interact with the permit office directly.
Coastal Zone Requirements
A significant portion of Santa Monica falls within the California Coastal Zone, which means development in these areas requires not only a standard building permit but in some cases a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) issued under the California Coastal Act of 1976.
Projects requiring a Coastal Development Permit include:
New construction within the Coastal Zone
Additions greater than 10% of the existing structure in the Coastal Zone
Changes to use or intensity of use within the Coastal Zone
This requirement adds a review step to the permitting process. Arbor Construction has experience navigating Coastal Zone permitting and manages the CDP process as part of our standard project management for affected properties.
Santa Monica ADU Rules
Santa Monica is one of California's most progressive cities when it comes to ADU policy. Under AB 2221 and the city's local ADU ordinance, most single-family and multi-family properties in Santa Monica are eligible to add an ADU.
Arbor Construction handles ADU design, permitting, and full construction. We'll assess your specific lot during a free site visit to tell you exactly what's possible.
Key rules for Santa Monica ADUs:
Detached ADUs: up to 1,200 sq ft maximum
Junior ADUs (JADUs): up to 500 sq ft within the existing structure
Garage conversions are permitted and popular in Santa Monica
Setback requirements vary by lot and zone
ADUs cannot be used for short-term rental (under 30 days) under current Santa Monica rules
Historic Properties and Character Compatibility
Santa Monica has a number of properties on the California Register of Historical Resources and the Santa Monica Historic Resources Inventory. Some neighborhoods - particularly parts of Ocean Park and older sections of Sunset Park - have homes with architectural character that the city protects through its Character Compatibility guidelines.
If your home is a designated historic resource or is adjacent to one, exterior changes may require additional review before a permit is issued. Interior work is generally not affected.
We have experience working within these guidelines and can advise you on what's possible at your specific property during our initial consultation.
Title 24 and Sustainability Requirements
All construction and major renovation work in Santa Monica must comply with California Title 24 energy efficiency standards. Santa Monica also has its own Green Building Provisions that apply to new construction, additions, and some alterations - these go beyond standard Title 24 in some areas.
Arbor Construction builds to Title 24 and Santa Monica's Green Building Provisions as standard practice. We specify energy-efficient HVAC, high-performance windows, proper insulation, and LED lighting as defaults on every project.
Santa Monica Neighborhoods We Work In
We've completed projects throughout Santa Monica. Here are the neighborhoods we know best:
North of Montana
Home to some of Santa Monica's largest lots and most valuable properties - we handle high-end custom builds and estate renovations here regularly.
Ocean Park
A neighborhood full of architectural character - Craftsman bungalows, beach cottages, and mid-century homes that we modernize while respecting their original charm.
Sunset Park
A family-focused neighborhood with a mix of original 1940s homes and modern rebuilds - we've done everything from small bathroom remodels to full ground-up custom builds here.
Wilshire-Montana
Dense with condos and single-family homes, Wilshire-Montana requires careful coordination with HOAs and condo boards - we have extensive experience with both.
Downtown Santa Monica
Urban living, high-rise condos, and commercial remodeling - our team handles the complexity of city-center construction, including tight access, neighbor coordination, and commercial permits.
Pico / Mid-City
Diverse housing stock ranging from modest single-family homes to multi-unit buildings - we work on all of it, from ADU additions to full kitchen and bath remodels.
How We Work - From First Call to Final Walk-Through
Here's exactly what working with Arbor Construction looks like, from the moment you reach out to the day we hand back your keys.
Free On-Site Consultation
We come to your Santa Monica property, walk the space with you, and listen to what you have in mind. No showroom visit, no sales pitch. We give you an honest assessment of what's involved - including timeline, rough cost, and whether permits are required.
Detailed Written Estimate
We put together a line-item proposal that covers every scope of work, material specifications, the projected timeline, and a clear payment schedule. Nothing vague - you know what you're getting before anything starts.
Permit Filing and Management
We handle all permit applications with the City of Santa Monica Building and Safety Division, including plan check submissions, required engineering or soils reports, and Coastal Development Permit applications where applicable. You don't need to visit the permit office.
Construction With Daily Supervision
Our licensed tradespeople execute the work with a site supervisor present every day. You receive weekly written updates with photos. You can visit the site any time, and we reach out immediately if anything changes.
Final Walk-Through and Project Close-Out
Before we close out the project, we walk through every detail with you. If anything isn't exactly right, we fix it - that's part of the contract, not an add-on. We don't consider the job done until you're satisfied.
What Construction and Remodeling Costs in Santa Monica
Prices in Santa Monica reflect the city's location, high land values, and building complexity. Here are honest real-world ranges for common projects we complete in the area. These are estimates - every project is different, and we provide a detailed written quote before anything starts.
Project
Estimated Cost Range in Santa Monica
Kitchen Remodeling
$70,000 – $140,000+
Bathroom Remodel
$35,000 – $95,000+
Whole-Home Remodel
$180,000 – $500,000+
Room Addition
$75,000 – $200,000+
ADU Construction (Detached)
$130,000 – $320,000+
Garage Conversion to ADU
$80,000 – $180,000+
Custom Home Build
$550 – $1,100+ per sq ft
Construction Management
10%–20% of project cost
Estimates based on current Santa Monica material and labor costs. Final pricing depends on project scope, site conditions, finish level, and permitting complexity. Contact us for a free, detailed quote.
Why Santa Monica Homeowners Choose Arbor Construction
There's no shortage of contractors in Santa Monica. Here's why clients who've used us come back - and why they send their neighbors to us.
Fully Licensed, Bonded & Insured
CA LIC, issued by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). We carry full general liability insurance and a contractor's bond, and every subcontractor we use is vetted and licensed. You can verify our license at cslb.ca.gov any time.
We Know Santa Monica's Rules
We know the City of Santa Monica permit office. We know when a Coastal Development Permit is required. We know the Character Compatibility guidelines and which neighborhoods have historic properties. That local knowledge prevents delays and saves money.
One Contract, One Team, One Contact
You don't manage five separate vendors. Arbor Construction handles construction, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and construction management under one contract with one dedicated project manager. Simpler for you, better coordinated for the project.
Honest Pricing From Day One
We don't win jobs with low estimates and make it up in change orders. You get a detailed, line-item proposal upfront. If something unexpected comes up mid-project, we tell you before we act - no surprises on the final invoice.
Coastal Construction Experience
Santa Monica's coastal environment affects materials, construction methods, and systems. We specify finishes and systems that hold up in this climate - and we've been doing it long enough to know what works and what doesn't in a coastal setting.
What Our Clients Say About Arbor Construction
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I've had Hud Cooksey work as my general contractor for the last four and a half years and have been exceptionally happy with all the work he's done. He is honest, reliable, and the quality of his work is outstanding."
Nancy Gundlach
via Google
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Thank you for your diligent efforts. Your willingness to make sure the job was done right is much appreciated."
Chris Weerts
Weerts Real Estate, Inc. | via Google
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Very professional. Excellent work. A pleasure to do business with. Would definitely recommend to others."
Stu Lovett
via Google
Frequently Asked Questions - Santa Monica Construction & Remodeling
What does a general contractor in Santa Monica charge?
General contractors in Santa Monica typically charge 10% to 20% of the total project cost for management-only contracts. For design-build contracts, the fee is included in the overall project price. A kitchen remodel in Santa Monica typically costs $70,000–$140,000+. A bathroom remodel runs $35,000–$95,000+. Custom home construction typically runs $550–$1,100+ per square foot depending on site conditions and finishes. Arbor Construction provides a free, detailed estimate for every project before work begins.
Do I need a permit for remodeling in Santa Monica?
Yes, most construction and remodeling work in Santa Monica requires a permit from the City of Santa Monica Building and Safety Division. This includes any structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work. Cosmetic changes - painting, flooring, cabinet refacing - typically don't require a permit. As of January 1, 2026, all new permit submittals are reviewed under the 2025 California Building Standards Code. Arbor Construction manages all permit applications and inspections on your behalf.
What is a Coastal Development Permit and do I need one?
A Coastal Development Permit (CDP) is required for certain development projects within the California Coastal Zone, which covers a significant part of Santa Monica. If your property is in the Coastal Zone and you're planning new construction, a large addition, or a change in the use of the property, a CDP may be required in addition to a standard building permit. Arbor Construction assesses whether a CDP is needed during our initial consultation and manages the process if required.
Can Arbor Construction build an ADU on my Santa Monica property?
Yes. We design and build ADUs throughout Santa Monica in compliance with AB 2221 and the city's local ADU ordinance. We handle site assessment, design, all city permit filings, and full construction - including detached ADUs, attached additions, JADU conversions, and garage-to-ADU conversions. Note that Santa Monica prohibits short-term rental of ADUs (under 30 days), which is worth factoring into your planning.
How long does a home remodel take in Santa Monica?
Timelines depend on scope. A kitchen or bathroom remodel typically takes 6 to 10 weeks once permits are in hand. A whole-home remodel can take 4 to 9 months. Custom home construction typically runs 12 to 18 months from permit approval to completion. Permit review timelines in Santa Monica vary - we factor this into the schedule from day one and give you a realistic timeline at the estimate stage.
Does Arbor Construction work on condos in Santa Monica?
Yes. We work on condos throughout Santa Monica including in Wilshire-Montana, Downtown, and other condo-heavy neighborhoods. Condo projects typically require HOA or condo board approval before work begins - we are experienced in that process and can help coordinate it.
Is Arbor Construction licensed to work in Santa Monica?
Yes. Arbor Construction, Inc. holds CA LIC, issued by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured for residential and commercial construction in Santa Monica and throughout Los Angeles County. You can verify our license directly at cslb.ca.gov.
Do you handle emergency plumbing or HVAC repairs in Santa Monica?
Yes. We offer same-day and emergency service for plumbing and HVAC issues in Santa Monica. If you have an urgent problem, call us directly at 818-996-2160 and we'll get someone to you as quickly as possible.
What neighborhoods in Santa Monica do you serve?
We work throughout all of Santa Monica - North of Montana, Ocean Park, Sunset Park, Wilshire-Montana, Downtown Santa Monica, Pico District, and Mid-City. ZIP codes served: 90401, 90402, 90403, 90404, 90405.
Can you work on a historic home in Santa Monica?
Yes. Santa Monica has a number of properties on its Historic Resources Inventory, particularly in Ocean Park and older sections of Sunset Park. We understand the city's Character Compatibility guidelines and have experience renovating historic properties within these requirements - updating kitchens, bathrooms, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical while working within the constraints that apply to the exterior and structure.
Ready to Start Your Santa Monica Project?
Looking for a contractor in Santa Monica who actually shows up, communicates clearly, and does the work right? That's Arbor Construction. We handle everything from custom home builds and full remodels to kitchens, bathrooms, ADUs, HVAC, and plumbing - all under one roof, all in Santa Monica.
The first step is simple. Give us a call or send us a message. We'll come to your Santa Monica property, walk through your goals, and give you a straight answer about timeline, cost, and what permits are involved. No pressure, no obligation.
CA Licensed - LIC #941491
Fully Bonded & Insured
Free Estimates - No Obligation
Locally Owned & Operated
ARBOR CONSTRUCTION, INC
CA LIC #941491
6023 Etivanda Ave, Tarzana, 91356
Office: 818-996-2160 . FAX: 818-996-2158
Arbor Construction, Inc is Bonded and Insured in the State of California
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