Free renovation guidance

What should you do before your renovation?

Pick your project. We'll tell you who to call first, whether you need a permit, how long it takes, and what it will cost — for your state.

Start with Bathroom Browse all projects
14Project types covered
50US states + DC
5Answers per project
FreeNo account needed
Renovations

Bathroom

Remodel, layout, plumbing, permits

Kitchen

Cabinets, layout, plumbing, gas lines

Basement

Finishing, egress, moisture, permits

Garage Conversion

Living space, ADU, insulation

Wall Removal

Load-bearing, structural, permits
New Construction

Build a House

Architect, builder, permits, timeline

Home Addition

Foundation, structure, permits

ADU

Accessory dwelling, state rules, costs
Outdoor Projects

Deck

Size, material, footings, permits

Fence

Height rules, permits, property lines

Shed

Size limits, permit exemptions, setbacks
Home Systems

Solar Panels

Permits, utility approval, incentives

EV Charger

Electrical permit, panel capacity

HVAC

Replacement, new system, permits

Every project. Same structured answer.

1

Pick your project

Choose from renovations, new construction, outdoor projects, or home systems.

2

Select your state

Permit rules and costs vary significantly by state. We account for that.

3

Answer a few questions

About scope, size, and what you already know.

4

Get your answer

Who to call, permit status, timeline, and cost estimate — all in one place.

Practical guides
The $5,000 bathroom mistake Why moving plumbing is the most expensive bathroom renovation decision — and how to avoid it. The kitchen layout trap The one decision that adds $10,000+ to kitchen renovation budgets — and what to do instead. Build a house: full cost calculator U.S. state-adjusted estimate with 22 line items. Includes free Excel blueprint download. Free Excel cost blueprint Editable workbook with state multipliers, line items, and low/mid/high ranges.