Turning to all you experts for help on...

[RICHARD]

It's a new construction, so access isn't an issue - they likely haven't even broken ground yet!

Got it.

But that raises another question? How much does it cost to fix 'broken ground'?

My reading comprehension is off today!

[Karen]

Isn't English funny - you have to break ground to build up!

And if you break ground, then change your mind, you can advertise for "clean fill" - which at its best is dirt, or a mix of dirt and rock. How is dirt clean?

[blue]

I still see alot of block foundations up here in earthquake land. Heck I have a wood foundation on a concrete footer.

Whats the cost difference for the different types of foundations?

[Freedom]

At a minimum, talk with other contractors and get their ideas.

Maybe also speak with the building inspector. Some are full of knowledge and willing to share; others are . . . city employees and that's about it. Like any other profession, there are good and bad ones.

I am having some work done on a concrete slab step, which has shifted out of code, and the driveway, which has shifted and allowing waqter into my cellar. These items were not installed properly first go around; the base was not compacted right.

I talked with 7 contractors. Some to replace the asphalt driveway with asphalt again, others to put in concrete. By the time I talked with #5, 6 and 7, I had much more intelligent questions to ask! I now know more about compacting methods, asphalt, concrete, ribar, wire mesh and highway mesh than I really ever wanted to, lol.

You educate yourself in the process. Helps you make a better decision; at least, I sure hope so!

[MoonandBean]

After all is said and done, we cancelled the first job and are now getting ready to break ground. We are going with a different builder and a completely different home AND we are using Superior Walls. Our builder wanted to use ICF but we are saving with the Superior Walls and they come very highly recommended by many sources and my other house has Superior Walls and we have never had any problems. Stay tuned for pictures as we start this exciting project

Thanks for all your help along the way.

[Karen]

You're welcome, and do keep us posted with updates! This can be a learning experience for all of us!