Construction & Remodeling
Hometelligent Inc.
Hometelligent Inc.
Albany, CA
About Hometelligent Inc.
Hometelligent Inc. is a Bay Area residential design-build and general contracting company based in Albany, California. The company serves homeowners throughout Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, and San Francisco counties, delivering planning, permitting coordination, construction management, remodeling, additions, and specialty residential improvements. Hometelligent is led by owner and California-licensed contractor Silvio Dobrovat, whose family construction background spans more than three decades and whose leadership has guided the business since 2000. Hometelligent was incorporated in 2008 and operates with a focus on craftsmanship, clear communication, practical project planning, dependable coordination, and long-term value for homeowners.
The company specializes in accessory dwelling units (ADUs), including detached backyard cottages, attached ADUs, garage conversions, in-law suites, guest houses, multigenerational living spaces, rental units, and custom accessory structures. Hometelligent helps homeowners assess project feasibility, coordinate with designers and engineers, navigate permitting requirements, prepare sites, complete foundations and framing, install utilities, and build finished living spaces with kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, cabinetry, lighting, and exterior features. ADU projects can be designed for family members, aging parents, adult children, guests, home offices, rental income, or flexible long-term use.
Hometelligent also performs home additions and expansion projects, such as primary-suite additions, bedroom additions, bathroom additions, family-room expansions, living-room expansions, home offices, second-story additions, garage additions, mudrooms, laundry rooms, walk-in closets, and connected multigenerational suites. The company manages the complexity behind these projects, including design coordination, structural requirements, construction sequencing, permits, inspections, framing, roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC coordination, finishes, and integration with the existing home.
For interior renovations, Hometelligent provides kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, whole-home renovations, older-home modernization, historic-home restoration, layout reconfiguration, open-concept living conversions, wall removal, structural remodeling, flooring upgrades, custom cabinetry, countertops, tile, lighting, fixtures, doors, trim, millwork, built-ins, and finish carpentry. Kitchen work may include cabinet installation, islands, pantries, countertops, backsplashes, appliance coordination, plumbing upgrades, lighting improvements, and functional layout redesign. Bathroom projects may include primary bathrooms, guest baths, powder rooms, custom showers, tub-to-shower conversions, curbless showers, vanity installation, tilework, fixtures, ventilation, accessibility improvements, and water-efficiency upgrades.
The company’s specialty work includes fine carpentry, finish carpentry, custom built-ins, custom shelving, window seats, bookcases, entertainment centers, fireplace surrounds, interior trim, crown molding, wainscoting, decorative millwork, closet build-outs, and custom storage solutions. Hometelligent also provides window, skylight, and glazing work, including replacement windows, energy-efficient windows, custom window installations, patio doors, French doors, sliding glass doors, skylights, custom glass, shower glass, glass railings, and related framing or trim work. Public contractor profiles associate the company with California General Building and Glazing licensing.
For exterior and outdoor-living projects, Hometelligent builds custom decks, multi-level decks, hillside and elevated decks, deck replacements, deck repairs, stairs, railings, composite or wood decks, covered deck areas, patios, pergolas, shade structures, outdoor kitchens, built-in grill areas, pizza ovens, outdoor bars, outdoor dining spaces, and backyard entertainment areas. The company is particularly suited to Bay Area properties where sloped sites, outdoor connections, weather exposure, space limitations, and structural requirements call for thoughtful planning and experienced construction execution.
Hometelligent also supports property restoration and repair work, including water-damage restoration, dry-rot repair, wood-rot repair, structural repair, framing repair, deck repair, window and skylight repair, siding and trim repair, older-home improvements, and exterior restoration. Sustainable and energy-conscious options may include energy-efficient windows, daylighting through skylights, insulation and air-sealing improvements, water-efficient fixtures, low-VOC materials, and practical material choices intended to support comfort, durability, indoor air quality, and long-term operating efficiency.
The Hometelligent process is designed to take homeowners from an early idea to a completed project. Services can include consultations, feasibility review, budgeting, design-build planning, architectural and engineering coordination, permit coordination, construction scheduling, material-selection support, trade management, onsite supervision, quality control, final walkthroughs, and completion support. Rather than functioning as a limited-scope repair provider, Hometelligent is positioned for larger, multi-trade residential projects that require careful coordination, construction expertise, and a single accountable contractor from beginning to end.
Hometelligent has an A+ BBB rating, though it is not BBB Accredited, and public profiles list California contractor license no. 935175. The business has received historical recognition including a 2014 Best of Houzz award and prior Diamond Certified recognition. Its Houzz profile also displays a 5.0-star rating based on 59 reviews in current results. These credentials, combined with the company’s long operating history and Bay Area project focus, support its positioning as a trusted contractor for homeowners considering ADUs, additions, major remodeling, custom carpentry, outdoor living improvements, glazing, restoration, and energy-conscious residential construction.
Licenses & credentials
- Hometelligent Inc. is a California-licensed general contractor serving homeowners throughout the East Bay and Bay Area. CSLB License #935175 — B General Building Contractor and C-17 Glazing Contractor. Since 2008, Hometelligent has provided residential remodeling, room additions, custom cabinetry, kitchen and bathroom renovations, and general contracting services.
Services
- ADU construction
- Detached ADU construction
- Attached ADU construction
- Backyard cottage construction
- Garage conversion ADUs
- Garage-to-living-space conversions
- Basement ADU conversions
- In-law suite construction
- Guest house construction
- Granny flat construction
- Multigenerational living suites
- Accessory dwelling unit design
- ADU architectural planning
- ADU permit coordination
- ADU feasibility consultations
- ADU site planning
- ADU foundation construction
- ADU utility connections
- ADU kitchen installation
- ADU bathroom installation
- Studio ADU construction
- One-bedroom ADU construction
- Two-bedroom ADU construction
- Rental ADU construction
Service areas
Hometelligent Inc. serves customers in:
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Dublin
- Emeryville
- Fremont
- Hayward
- Livermore
- Newark
- Oakland
- Piedmont
- Pleasanton
- San Leandro
- Union City
- Ashland
- Castro Valley
- Cherryland
- Fairview
- Hayward Acres
- San Lorenzo
- Sunol
- Canyon
- Kensington
- Oakland Hills
- Montclair
- Rockridge
- Temescal
- Lake Merritt
- Grand Lake
- Jack London Square
- Fruitvale
- Dimond District
- Maxwell Park
- Eastmont
- West Oakland
- Uptown Oakland
- North Oakland
- South Berkeley
- North Berkeley
- Elmwood
Common questions
What is an ADU and why would I build one?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary dwelling unit on a single-family or multi-family residential lot. Building an ADU can provide additional living space for family members, generate rental income, or increase property value. Before starting, consider your primary motivation, such as housing a relative or renting it out, as this will influence the design and features of the unit.
What are the common types of ADUs and how do I choose one?
Common ADU types include detached (freestanding), attached (connected to the main house), garage conversions, and junior ADUs (JADUs) which are internal conversions. The best type for you depends on your property layout, existing structures, and local zoning ordinances. Consider factors like available yard space, existing garage structure, and your budget to determine which type aligns best with your property's potential and your goals.
What is the typical process for ADU construction in Alameda?
The ADU construction process in Alameda generally involves initial design, permitting, site preparation, construction, and final inspection. Hometelligent Inc. assists clients through each stage, starting with a consultation to understand your needs and assess your property. Understanding the local permitting requirements specific to Alameda early in the process helps streamline approvals and avoid delays.
How long does it take to build an ADU?
The timeline for ADU construction varies based on design complexity, permitting duration, and site conditions. On average, the entire process, from design to completion, can take 8 to 18 months. Permitting can be a significant variable; preparing all necessary documentation accurately and promptly can help expedite this phase of the project.
What factors affect the cost of building an ADU?
The cost of building an ADU is influenced by its size, type (e.g., detached vs. garage conversion), materials chosen, site preparation needs, and interior finishes. Custom designs or challenging site conditions can increase overall expenses. Establishing a clear budget early on and discussing material choices with your builder can help manage costs effectively.
Do I need special permits for ADU construction?
Yes, ADU construction requires specific permits, including building permits, and potentially zoning permits, depending on your city's regulations. The exact requirements vary by jurisdiction, so what's needed in Berkeley might differ from Dublin. Hometelligent Inc. can help navigate the specific permitting processes for your city within our service area, such as Emeryville, Albany, or Fremont, to ensure compliance.
What preparation should I do before contacting a contractor about an ADU?
Before contacting a contractor, consider your budget range, desired ADU function (e.g., rental, family use), and gather any existing property surveys or plans you might have. Thinking about your desired number of bedrooms and bathrooms will also help in the initial design discussions. Having these details ready allows for a more productive first consultation.
How does ADU size impact design and cost?
ADU size significantly impacts both design complexity and overall cost, as larger units typically require more materials, labor, and potentially more extensive foundation work. Local regulations in areas like Pleasanton or Livermore also dictate maximum allowable ADU sizes, which can influence design options. Optimizing the layout within a smaller footprint can sometimes provide significant cost savings without sacrificing functionality.
What are the benefits of converting a garage into an ADU?
Converting an existing garage into an ADU can be a cost-effective and time-efficient option compared to new construction, as it often utilizes existing foundations and walls. This approach minimizes disruption to your main property and can be a good way to add living space without sacrificing yard area. However, it requires careful planning to ensure proper insulation, utilities, and compliance with residential living standards.
What is the typical inspection process for an ADU project?
The ADU inspection process involves multiple stages, from foundation and framing to plumbing, electrical, and final occupancy inspections. Each phase ensures the construction meets safety codes and approved plans. Being present or having your contractor coordinate these inspections is crucial to keep the project moving and address any issues promptly, particularly for complex utility tie-ins.
What is a detached ADU?
A detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a separate residential structure on the same property as a primary home. It provides independent living facilities, including a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. Building a detached ADU can significantly increase property value and provide flexible living space for family, guests, or as a rental unit. Hometelligent specializes in designing and constructing these standalone units to integrate seamlessly with your existing property in areas like Alameda and Berkeley.
What are the typical costs associated with building a detached ADU?
The cost of building a detached ADU varies significantly based on factors like size, design complexity, site conditions, and finishes. Generally, these projects involve expenses for design, permits, foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and interior finishes. To get an accurate estimate, Hometelligent offers initial consultations to assess your specific property and project requirements, considering local regulations and material availability in areas such as Dublin and Fremont.
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