These are the projects where the permit set and the framing matter more than the finishes.
Get an EstimateConverting a garage into an ADU, office, or living space means new foundation work at the door opening, insulation, egress windows, and a mechanical plan that meets code.
Seismic retrofits, cripple wall bracing, and foundation repair for older SF and Marin homes — the work that determines whether the rest of the remodel has something solid to sit on.
Whole-home remodels where structural changes — removed walls, added floors, reconfigured layouts — are coordinated with permitting from day one.
Disclosed timeline. Sign-off at every milestone. No surprises.
We walk the property and identify what's structural vs. cosmetic before you get a number.
A written estimate with a scope of work — no verbal ballparks on structural jobs.
We prepare and submit the permit set with SF DBI or the relevant Marin jurisdiction.
Work proceeds against the approved plans, scheduled around required inspections.
"They completed a major renovation for my mother that included seismic work, foundation work, structural steel beams and posts, plumbing, electrical, a full kitchen renovation, and bathroom remodeling. This was a complex project with a lot of structural and technical work, and Solid Bay handled everything professionally from start to finish."
Michael
Seismic Retrofit & Foundation Renovation · Google Review
Currently mid-project on a foundation retrofit and 3rd story addition — see real progress photos in our Central Richmond Project Journal →
Thinking about a garage conversion? See Top 7 Garage Conversion Trends for San Francisco in 2026 →
Want the full pricing breakdown? See ADU Cost in San Francisco: 2026 Pricing Breakdown →
Noticing cracks or sticking doors? See Foundation Repair: Costs & Warning Signs →
Curious what a seismic upgrade actually costs? See Cripple Wall Bracing & Foundation Bolting Cost →
A garage-to-ADU conversion typically runs $180,000–$350,000. A seismic retrofit or foundation repair ranges from $15,000–$80,000+ depending on scope.
Yes — garage conversions, foundation work, and structural changes all require permits. We handle the full SF DBI or Marin jurisdiction submission as part of the project.
A garage conversion typically runs 3–5 months including permitting. A full house remodel with structural changes can run 8–14 months from design through completion.
Yes. Under current California ADU law, most single-family and multi-family properties in SF can convert an existing garage to livable space or a full ADU by right, without a discretionary hearing. You'll still need to meet DBI building and fire code, and if the garage provides required off-street parking, that may need to be addressed. We handle the zoning check and full permit submission as part of the project.
Tell us what you're working with. For structural jobs, we'll follow up to schedule a site visit before quoting. We'll respond within one business day to schedule a site visit.
Phone
(415) 888-5361is@solidbayconstructionsf.com
We respond within one business day.
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