The 10 Most Common Construction Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

1. Poor Planning and Incomplete Design

Jumping into construction without complete plans leads to confusion, delays, and wasted materials.

✅ Our Fix: We begin every project with detailed pre-construction planning — reviewing drawings, permits, and code compliance before any physical work begins.

2. Underestimating the Budget

Many homeowners overlook hidden costs like utility connections, inspections, and permit fees.

✅ Our Fix: Nail & Hammer provides clear, line-by-line estimates that account for all project costs, keeping budgets realistic and transparent.

3. Hiring Unlicensed or Unqualified Subcontractors

Unlicensed labor often leads to code violations and low-quality results.

✅ Our Fix: Every subcontractor we use is licensed, insured, and proven in their trade. Our five generations of carpentry heritage ensure skilled craftsmanship on every job.

4. Ignoring Local Codes and Permitting

Skipping permits or misunderstanding LADBS regulations can result in stop-work orders.

✅ Our Fix: We manage all permitting, inspections, and LADBS submissions to keep projects compliant and moving forward.

5. Poor Communication

Lack of communication between the client, architect, and trades leads to frustration and cost overruns.

✅ Our Fix: We maintain open communication — providing regular progress updates, documented change orders, and proactive issue management.

6. Skipping Site Preparation

Ignoring soil stability, drainage, or grading early on creates long-term problems.

✅ Our Fix: We perform thorough site evaluations and grading before foundation work begins to ensure every build starts strong.

7. Poor Scheduling and Project Management

Without structured management, inspections and trades overlap, causing costly delays.

✅ Our Fix: Our project managers use organized scheduling systems that align labor, materials, and inspections precisely.

8. Choosing the Wrong Materials

Cheap materials may seem like savings upfront, but they cause maintenance headaches later.

✅ Our Fix: We source high-quality, climate-appropriate materials designed to last in Southern California’s conditions.

9. Lack of Quality Control

Rushing through work without checks leads to flaws hidden behind walls or finishes.

✅ Our Fix: Our supervisors perform detailed inspections at every stage — framing, rough-in, and finish — ensuring code compliance and craftsmanship.

10. Neglecting the Finishing Touches

Finishes define the final impression of a project. Skipping small details makes a big difference.

✅ Our Fix: Every project ends with a punch-list walkthrough and quality check. We don’t hand over the keys until it meets our exacting standards.

Experience You Can Build On

Every successful construction project depends on the same things — planning, experience, and precision.
At Nail & Hammer Construction Corp, we combine five generations of craftsmanship with modern project management to deliver builds that last.

Whether you’re planning an ADU, remodel, or full custom home, we make sure it’s built right — the first time.

📞 Contact Us Today

Let’s talk about your next project.
Nail & Hammer Construction Corp — Los Angeles General Contractors specializing in ADUs, remodels, and residential construction.

424-800-3704