What to confirm before work starts
- Whether the project scope requires permit review in your city or county jurisdiction
- How utilities should be marked before excavation or demolition
- Whether the property has drainage, slope, fence, or access conditions that affect the plan
- How the yard will be graded and what the final surface is expected to support
Why this matters in the South Bay
San Jose and nearby cities can look similar on the surface, but local rules and project review can still vary. A homeowner should treat permit questions as something to verify, not something to assume from a nearby property or a different city.
Questions worth asking a contractor
Who is checking permit requirements?
The homeowner should know whether the contractor is confirming permit needs and whether inspections or sign-off steps are part of the job scope.
How will utilities and access be handled?
Equipment size, staging space, driveway protection, and utility marking can all affect the demolition plan and the condition of the property during the work.
What does the final grading include?
Ask whether compaction and finish grading are included, and whether the yard will be ready for seed, sod, simple landscaping, or only rough finish.
What could change the scope?
Mature trees, retaining walls, limited side access, unexpected drainage issues, or a change in the final yard plan can all affect the work.
Homeowner takeaway
The best approach is usually to treat permits and site steps as part of early planning, not as last-minute paperwork. That helps avoid surprises once demolition is scheduled.