In need of a Somerville-savvy contractor

[fox van allen]

Salutations!

I'm a new-ish home owner near Davis Square. My place has a partially-finished basement. I'd love to use it for an office or space bedroom, but I question the legality of the work that was done by the previous owners.

Now that we're in that magical tax return season, I want to turn that basement space into legal, livable area. The only problem is that I don't really know of any good Somerville-based (or Somerville-knowledgable) contractors. Ideally, someone who can work to get the place up to code, install necessary safety exits, check the wiring/plumbing, etc., all while working with the city to keep construction work to a minimum.

So I'm coming to you Davis Square LJ folks for guidance. Is there anyone here who's had this kind of work done to their satisfaction? Or is there anyone here who's used a skilled contractor to add a room, bathroom, etc. that's worth recommending?

Thanks in advance!

Comments

[junesrose.livejournal.com]

I went through Angie's list, as was suggested by this lovely community, and I struck gold.

The company I used is not based in Somerville, however, but they were unbelievable about making sure the right permits were pulled, and things were done accordingly and correctly. In fact, there were a few instances where working with the building department/inspectors became a but ridiculous daunting and overwhelming (they were asking for apartment building specs for some products in a two family home...), and my contractor set them straight. [w00t! for the little guy..]. it took some time but I loved the fact that they didn't back down.

The job I had done was a complete gut/remodel of my mom's old two family home, built in 1910, and last update done in the 1980's or so. I had no idea of the amount of work needed at the time. I was just looking to update mom's apartment so I could pay for her nursing home care. Talk about one thing leading to the next....

The company I used/still using is in Dorchester,so I'm not sure if they'll still want to make the commute. They're named 'Artful Renovations'. I can't say enough about these people. My mom passed away before major renovations got underway, so the whole job was extremely emotional for me, but they were beyond commpassionate, and understanding, almost like a long lost cousin. /tmi...

But for whatever it's worth, Angie's list is the way to go. Good luck.

[rmd.livejournal.com]

I've had good experiences with the folks at stealth construction http://www.stealthconstruction.net and they seemed savvy about permit issues for the exterior renovation I had them do. They're also good at saying "uh, no, this is fine you don't need us to do that stuff." They're a bit busy at the moment, but I'd drop them a line.

[somervilleguy.livejournal.com]

I would recommend talking to an Architect first. Try Dominic Daveta he is a longtime Somerville Architect and he specializes in local Condo conversions and additions to existing spaces. He doesn't have website but he is very knowledgeable regarding the Somerville process and who to talk to. I've used him for several projects over the years and highly recommend him. Try 617 666 9840.

[lldald.livejournal.com]

Paul Commons (http://www.rebeloweb.com/commons/index.html) did our entire house from the studs out and, in a separate project, a fantastic finished basement. Can't say enough good things about is work.

[bobobb.livejournal.com]

Joe Coviello has done lots of little bits around my house, but I understand he is a contractor too, lives in Somerville and is pretty awesome (I'd trust him to do anything). His number: 617-504-5888.

[frugaljoe.livejournal.com]

I've recommend Ben LaMora from Lineal Inc a number of times in Davis, and they've always gotten great reviews. Ben and his crew are really conscientious, has a great design sense, and is cost-conscious. They gut renovated our kitchen, and we couldn't be happier.

Give him a call - 508.275.7512 or check their website: www.linealinc.com