Hiring a Backyard Remodel Contractor in Los Angeles
A full backyard remodel touches every trade: pool, hardscape, masonry, framing, electrical, plumbing, gas, irrigation, planting, and lighting. Hiring 4–6 separate contractors creates 4–6 invoices, 4–6 warranties, and a guaranteed coordination problem. A design-build contractor delivers the entire backyard under one contract.
What a Full LA Backyard Remodel Costs in 2026
- Refresh (hardscape + landscape, no pool): $40,000–$120,000
- Mid-size remodel (pool, hardscape, kitchen): $150,000–$280,000
- Premium full backyard (custom pool, kitchen, pergola, lighting, planting): $280,000–$650,000
- Luxury hillside with infinity pool, BBQ pavilion, full design: $700,000–$2M+
Phases of a Backyard Remodel
- Discovery + design (2–6 weeks)
- 3D rendering + material selection (2–4 weeks)
- Permits + engineering (4–24 weeks depending on scope)
- Demolition + excavation (1–2 weeks)
- Pool shell + structural work (3–5 weeks)
- Hardscape + masonry (4–8 weeks)
- Outdoor kitchen, pergola, fire features (3–6 weeks)
- Landscape, irrigation, lighting (2–4 weeks)
- Final inspections + handoff (1 week)
How to Vet a Backyard Remodel Contractor
- Verify CSLB license — B (General) with C-53 (Pool) and/or C-27 (Landscape)
- Active workers' comp + $1M+ general liability
- 3+ completed full backyard remodels in your area
- In-house design team (not white-labeled)
- Transparent allowances for every material category
- Single contract for the entire project
💡 Pro Tip
If a contractor wants to start construction before design and material selections are complete, expect 25–40% in change orders. Design first, build second.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a full backyard remodel cost in LA?
Refresh $40,000–$120,000, mid-size $150,000–$280,000, premium $280,000–$650,000, luxury $700,000–$2M+.
How long does a backyard remodel take?
3–9 months from contract signing to final walkthrough. Hillside or pool projects with engineering can extend to 12–18 months.
One contractor or multiple specialists?
One design-build contractor. It eliminates finger-pointing, coordinates trades efficiently, and consolidates warranty under one company.
How much should I budget for design and permits?
Design typically 5–10% of project cost. Permits and engineering 1–4%. Both should be itemized in your contract.
Can I live at home during a backyard remodel?
Yes — most LA remodels keep the home livable. Expect dust, noise, and limited backyard access. We coordinate around major events.
Will a backyard remodel add to my home value?
Quality outdoor living adds 5–15% to LA home values, with the strongest ROI from pool, kitchen, and pergola combinations.
