- (669) 609-0069
- truebuildersca@gmail.com
- Lic # 1110631
Service area · San Mateo, CA
Updating San Mateo’s Classic Homes for Modern Living.
From 1920s Spanish Revival homes in Baywood to mid-century ranches in Hillsdale, True Builders remodels and expands San Mateo homes with respect for how they were built. Design, permits and construction under one contract. Licensed (CSLB #1110631) and insured.
Local Knowledge, Local Results
Why San Mateo HomeownersChoose True Builders.
Many San Mateo homes predate modern codes — think outdated wiring, raised foundations and small, closed-off kitchens. Remodeling them well means planning structural and systems upgrades alongside the finishes you see. Larger additions and second stories in San Mateo can also require a planning application and design review, and heritage trees are protected. We build those steps into the plan so your budget and schedule reflect reality.
You’ll get a fixed construction price and one project manager throughout.
Recent Work
Projects Like Yours.
San Mateo Permits & Rules
What to Know Before You Build in San Mateo.
We handle every permit. Here's the short version of what San Mateo typically requires for common projects:
- Second stories & large additions — Can require a planning application with single-family design review before building permits are issued.
- Older homes — Foundation, electrical and plumbing conditions come under review once walls are opened; we scope these before pricing.
- Heritage trees — Removing a heritage tree requires a city permit, and work near protected trees may need an arborist report.
- ADUs — Approved ministerially under California ADU law, including garage conversions without replacement parking.
- Remodels — Building, plumbing and electrical permits are required when layouts, drains or circuits change.
SERVICES IN SAN MATEO
Everything Your San Mateo Home Needs.
From ADUs and garage conversions to kitchens, bathrooms and additions, one licensed team handles design, permits and construction for San Mateo homeowners.
ADU Builder
Detached, attached and garage ADUs for rental income or extended family.
Garage Conversion
Turn an existing garage into a legal ADU, in-law suite or home office.
Junior ADU (JADU)
Add a private suite of up to 500 sq ft inside the home you already own.
Kitchen Remodeling
From refreshes to estate kitchens, typically $60K to $250K+.
Bathroom Remodeling
Walk-in showers, primary suites and accessible bathrooms.
Room Additions
Bedrooms, primary suites and guest houses that match your home.
Full Home Remodeling
Whole-house renovations planned from 4–5 months to 12+ months.
Permits & Design-Build
One team for design, city approvals and construction.
Typical San Mateo Project Costs & Timelines
- Kitchen remodel: about $60K–$95K for a refresh, $95K–$150K for a signature remodel, $150K–$250K+ for an estate kitchen
- Bathroom remodel: about $35K–$60K for a refresh up to $100K–$175K+ for a primary suite
- Garage conversion to an ADU: about $120K–$275K
- Detached ADU: about $275K–$600K+, typically finished in 6–9 months
- Room addition: 3–4 months of construction for one room, 4–6 months for a primary suite
- Whole-home remodel: 4–5 months for select spaces up to 8–12+ months for a full redesign
2026 ranges for planning purposes. Your fixed price follows a site visit.
How a San Mateo Project Works
- Free consultation & site visitWe review your goals, your lot and San Mateo zoning rules before anything is designed.
- Design & fixed pricePlans, engineering and a clear, fixed construction price before work begins.
- PermitsWe submit to the City of San Mateo and handle every plan-check comment for you.
- Build & final inspectionOne project manager from the first day on site through final sign-off.
Also Serving Homeowners Near San Mateo
SAN MATEO FAQS
Local Questions, Answered.
Many second-story additions and larger expansions require a planning application and design review in addition to building permits. Smaller single-story additions may not. We confirm the path for your property early.
Most San Mateo kitchen remodels fall into three levels: about $60,000–$95,000 for a refresh, $95,000–$150,000 for a signature remodel with semi-custom cabinetry and layout changes, and $150,000–$250,000 or more for an estate-level custom kitchen, plus city permit fees. Older homes often need electrical or plumbing upgrades, which we identify before quoting.
We work throughout the city, including Baywood, Aragon, San Mateo Park, Hillsdale, Beresford, Shoreview and Sugarloaf.
Plans and permits typically take 8–14 weeks, and construction of a detached ADU usually takes 16–22 weeks once permits are issued, so most detached ADUs are finished in about 6–9 months. Garage conversions typically take about 4–6 months.
It depends on scope: remodeling select spaces such as the kitchen and bathrooms takes about 4–5 months, a comprehensive remodel with structural changes 6–8 months, and a complete home redesign 8–12 months or more.
Construction for a single-room addition typically takes 3–4 months, and a primary suite addition 4–6 months, plus time up front for design, engineering and permits.
Ready to Start?
Get Your San MateoProject Quote.
Tell us about your San Mateo home and what you’d like to build. We’ll reach out within one business day.
GET FREE ESTIMATE
Let's Discuss
Your Project Goals.
Planning a project in San Mateo? Tell us about your property and choose your project type. We’ll review your ideas and follow up within one business day to schedule a free consultation.
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