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The Truth About 'All-Inclusive' Backyard Pricing—and What's Usually Missing

January 4, 20256 min read
Elan Benor

Elan Benor

Co-Founder, Moda Outdoor Living

All-inclusive pricing sounds great—until you're hit with $5,000 in 'extras' midway through your project.

I've seen it happen too many times. A homeowner signs what they think is a complete contract, only to find out that demolition, permits, electrical, or finishing touches are extra.

What 'All-Inclusive' Should Include

  1. Demolition and debris removal
  2. All permits and inspections
  3. Site preparation and grading
  4. Materials AND labor
  5. Electrical for lighting, outlets, etc.
  6. Final cleanup and walkthrough

Common Hidden Extras to Watch For

  • Permit fees (can be $500-$3,000+)
  • Electrical hookups for kitchens or lighting
  • Gas line connections for BBQ or fire pits
  • Sprinkler system adjustments
  • Fence modifications
  • Unforeseen soil conditions

💡 Pro Tip

Ask directly: 'What is NOT included in this quote?' Get the answer in writing before signing anything.

Professional, courteous, quality work. Everything exactly as promised and on time. — Mary Lou F.

When Mary Lou said 'everything exactly as promised'—that's what we aim for. Our quotes detail every cost, and we only charge for extras if we genuinely discover something unexpected (like hidden utilities or soil issues).

What Our Clients Say

"Professional, courteous, quality work. Everything exactly as promised and on time."
MLF

Mary Lou F.

Yelpvia Yelp

Frequently Asked Questions

Do your quotes include permits?

Yes. All permits and inspections are included in our quotes unless specifically noted otherwise.

What if something unexpected comes up during construction?

We discuss it with you immediately, provide options, and get approval before any additional work.

Ready to Transform Your Backyard?

Let's discuss your project. Book a free consultation and I'll personally walk you through your options.

Elan Benor

Elan Benor

Co-Founder, Moda Outdoor Living

Elan co-founded Moda Outdoor Living with Ilan Koifman after they met during Ironman training. Together, they've completed over 1,000 backyard transformations across Los Angeles, bringing transparent pricing and exceptional craftsmanship to every project.

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