Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about our home renovation services, processes, and expertise from Long Island's trusted renovation specialists.
General Questions
A Father & Four has been proudly serving Long Island families for over 15 years. Founded by Jason Zehner, our family-owned business has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship, honest pricing, and exceptional customer service. We've completed hundreds of successful home renovation projects throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
Yes, absolutely! A Father & Four is fully licensed (License #H59465) and carries comprehensive general liability and workers' compensation insurance. We provide certificates of insurance upon request and ensure all work meets or exceeds local building codes and regulations.
We proudly serve all of Long Island, including Nassau and Suffolk counties. Our service area includes communities from the Queens border to the East End, covering towns like Huntington, Babylon, Smithtown, Brookhaven, and everywhere in between. Contact us to confirm service availability in your specific area.
Yes, we provide emergency repair services for urgent situations like storm damage, water leaks, structural issues, or security concerns. Call our emergency line at (631) 392-0271 for immediate assistance. We understand that home emergencies can't wait, and we're here to help protect your property and family.
Our Services
We specialize in comprehensive home renovations including:
- Kitchen and bathroom remodeling
- Home extensions and additions
- Dormers and second-story additions
- Finished basements
- Windows and doors installation
- Decks and outdoor living spaces
- Chimney repairs and rebuilds
- Driveway and walkway installation
Absolutely! We're a full-service renovation company that handles both interior and exterior projects. From kitchen remodels and bathroom renovations to siding installation and roof work, we have the expertise and equipment to transform every aspect of your home. This comprehensive approach ensures consistent quality and seamless project coordination.
Yes! We offer comprehensive design consultation services. Our experienced team can help you plan your renovation from concept to completion, including space planning, material selection, and design optimization. We work with trusted architects and designers when needed and can provide 3D renderings for major projects to help you visualize the final result.
Absolutely! We have extensive experience working with older homes and understand the unique challenges they present. From updating electrical and plumbing systems to preserving historical character while adding modern amenities, we specialize in breathing new life into vintage properties while respecting their original charm and architectural integrity.
Our Process
Our initial consultation is completely free and involves a thorough assessment of your project needs. We'll visit your home at a convenient time to discuss your vision, evaluate the existing space, take measurements, and provide professional recommendations. This typically takes 1-2 hours, and you'll receive a detailed written estimate within 48 hours.
Our detailed estimates include:
- Complete material costs and specifications
- Labor costs and timeline breakdown
- Permit fees (when applicable)
- Cleanup and disposal fees
- Project management and supervision
- Warranty information
We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprise costs.
We maintain open communication throughout your project. You'll have direct access to your project manager and receive regular updates via your preferred method (phone, text, or email). We provide daily progress reports for larger projects and are always available to address questions or concerns. Photos and updates are shared regularly so you can track progress even when you're not home.
Safety is our top priority. We follow all OSHA guidelines and maintain strict safety protocols including proper equipment usage, site protection, and worker safety training. All team members are trained in safe work practices, and we carry comprehensive insurance coverage. We also take measures to protect your property and belongings during construction.
Pricing & Payment
Our pricing is based on several factors including project scope, material selection, labor requirements, timeline, and any special circumstances. We provide detailed, itemized estimates that break down all costs so you understand exactly what you're paying for. Our goal is to offer competitive pricing while maintaining the highest quality standards.
We accept multiple payment methods for your convenience:
- Cash and personal checks
- Credit and debit cards
- Bank transfers
- Financing options through approved partners
Payment schedules are typically structured around project milestones to ensure mutual protection and project progress.
Yes! We work with several financing partners to offer flexible payment options for qualified homeowners. These include low-interest loans, same-as-cash options, and extended payment plans. Our team can help you explore financing options that fit your budget and make your dream renovation affordable. Contact us to discuss available programs and qualification requirements.
We strive to maintain original pricing, but some situations may require adjustments. Any changes are discussed and approved in advance, including:
- Client-requested upgrades or changes
- Unforeseen conditions (like hidden damage)
- Code compliance requirements
- Material price fluctuations for long projects
All changes require written approval before proceeding, ensuring complete transparency.
Permits & Regulations
Absolutely! We handle all permit applications and coordinate inspections throughout your project. Our team is familiar with local building codes and permit requirements across Long Island. We'll determine what permits are needed, submit all necessary paperwork, and schedule required inspections. This service is included in our project management to ensure your renovation is fully compliant and legal.
Common projects requiring permits include:
- Structural modifications and additions
- Electrical system upgrades
- Plumbing modifications
- HVAC system changes
- Window and door replacements (in some areas)
- Deck construction
- Bathroom and kitchen remodels (when moving plumbing)
Requirements vary by municipality, and we'll determine exactly what's needed for your specific project and location.
Permit processing times vary by municipality and project complexity. Typical timeframes are:
- Simple projects: 1-2 weeks
- Standard renovations: 2-4 weeks
- Complex additions: 4-8 weeks
- Major structural work: 6-12 weeks
We factor permit processing time into your project timeline and can often begin preparation work while permits are pending to minimize delays.
While rare due to our thorough quality control, if work doesn't pass inspection, we take full responsibility to correct any issues at no additional cost to you. We'll work with the inspector to understand specific concerns, make necessary corrections, and schedule re-inspection. Our extensive experience and attention to detail help us maintain an excellent inspection pass rate.
Project Timeline
Project timelines vary based on scope and complexity:
- Bathroom remodel: 2-3 weeks
- Kitchen remodel: 3-6 weeks
- Finished basement: 3-4 weeks
- Home addition: 6-12 weeks
- Dormer addition: 4-6 weeks
- Deck construction: 1-2 weeks
- Window/door replacement: 1-3 days
These are general estimates; we'll provide a detailed timeline specific to your project during consultation.
Several factors can impact your project timeline:
- Permit approval delays
- Weather conditions (for exterior work)
- Material delivery schedules
- Unforeseen conditions discovered during work
- Client change requests
- Utility company coordination
- Inspector availability
We build buffer time into our schedules and communicate proactively about any potential delays.
We recommend booking your project 4-8 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and summer). This allows time for:
- Detailed planning and design
- Permit applications and approvals
- Material ordering and delivery
- Scheduling coordination
For emergency repairs, we can often accommodate immediate needs. Contact us to discuss your specific timeline requirements.
In most cases, yes! We plan projects to minimize disruption to your daily life. We:
- Work in phases to maintain living spaces
- Provide temporary facilities when needed
- Protect non-work areas from dust and debris
- Maintain clear pathways and exits
- Schedule noisy work during appropriate hours
For major additions or whole-house renovations, temporary relocation might be recommended for safety and efficiency.
Still Have Questions?
Our expert team is here to help answer any questions about your home renovation project.