If you are looking to do any kind of home contruction improvements, or to build a home from the ground up, we highly recommend this local, family owned company. 7 1/2 years ago, we decided to do a large addition to our 1965 Huntington Beach tract home, which would include a spacious new guest room, bath, and kitchen. We interviewed at least 5 local contractors, which included going out and looking at work done, checking references, etc. After doing many hours of research and homework, we decided to go with D'Ambra Construction.
When we told our friends and family the plans we had for construction and remodeling, they all had their own horror stories to share about their remodeling experiences. We were a little anxious even though we were confident that this company would meet our needs better than the others. That anxiety was quickly put to rest as our project moved ahead. We were told it would take 3 months to complete, and they delivered our new home in that time frame.
Our project started early in 2005, which was one of the rainiest winters on record. Each and every day, we had someone working on our home, no excuses, no delays. At the end of each day, a clean up crew arrived to clear debris and sweep clean the construction site. Our workers were all very considerate of our neighbors, did not yell and blare their stereo music like we have seen on other sites, and always left our home in order as the project moved ahead. We were promised that if there were any "surprises" when they opened up our walls, the bid amount we had agreed to would be honored, and they would not be asking for additional money to rectify the problem, which is a common practice by those other contractors who give lower bids. Well, turns out, this old 1965 tract home had alot of "suprises" and D'Ambra stood by their promise to deliver what they had promised. This involved bringing in structural engineers who were able to re-configure the joists and venting so everything would work perfectly, which was I am sure, a great additional expense that D'Ambra absorbed.
Chris D'Ambra, the owner's son, was our go-to guy for the entire process. He was at the site every day to make sure the contractors were completing the work in a timely and excellent manner. I must say that they only use licensed and top rated electricians, plumbers, framers, etc. on their projects. Their attention to quality shows, and many have worked for D'Ambra for years. Our cabinet maker for the kitchen and bath was a true artisan, and listened to us completely, delivering some beautiful custom accents that we just love. The city of Huntington Beach building department also knows and appreciates the level of work that D'Ambra delivers. That was obvious when inspectors came out each time for the permitting process.
We love, love, love our home now, and have loved it for the past almost 8 years. One final note, a few days ago we had a small electrical issue, that would not at all be uncommon after heavy use over that period of time. We did not know of any reputable electricians, so, knowing that D'Ambra only uses the best of the best, we decided to call them, just for a reference, so we could get it looked at, at our own expense. I was immediately put through to the owner, Dennis D'Ambra, who told me that he would be sending Chris out to look at it. Chris not only came out to see us that day, but he arranged for an electrician to come troubleshoot the problem. After checking all the breakers and possible issues, he identified an issue with a socket and replaced it. This would have been hundreds and hundreds of dollars for the time spent and work done, but D'Ambra took care of it, no charge.
We can't say enough about this company. They have been in business for over 50 years. They have a permanent office/ showroom in Huntington Beach, and with this kind of service, commitment and integrity, they will be around for another 50 years to standby and guarantee everything they touch on the job.
Marianne Pierson
Huntington Beach, CA. read more
