Build Smarter. Spend Wiser. Stay in Control.
Expert guidance for Austin homeowners managing their own remodel or repair.
Not sure where to start, who to hire, or how to deal with permits? BuildAdvocate helps you navigate every step — without handing over your whole project to a contractor. Whether you’re facing expired permits, pool damage, or just want a second opinion, we’re here to make sure your project is done right.
Services
Permit Guidance
We help you navigate Austin’s permit system — so your project starts right, stays compliant, and doesn’t get stuck.
Whether you’re starting a new project or cleaning up an old one, BuildAdvocate makes permits easier. We guide you through the entire City of Austin permitting process — from filing for new permits to reactivating or closing out expired ones.
If you’re not sure where your project stands, we’ll show you how to check for active or expired permits using the city’s public database — and then walk you through next steps to keep things moving.
We help you:
- Reactivate and close out expired permits
- File new permits the right way, the first time
- Understand city requirements, inspections, and next steps
- Avoid red tags and project delays
🔎 Check your permit status now using the City of Austin’s Permit Search Tool
Contractor Vetting & Interviews
Choose the right builder or trades with confidence — we’ll help you ask the right questions and spot red flags.
Hiring the wrong contractor can derail your entire project. We help you compare bids, review contracts, and prepare for interviews so you can make smart, informed choices. You’ll know exactly what to look for — and what to avoid.
We help you:
Review contracts before you sign
Compare contractor bids apples-to-apples
Spot vague or overpriced line items
Prepare interview questions that get real answers
Draw Schedule Inspections
Don’t pay for incomplete work. We inspect progress before each payment to keep things on track.
Before you release another check, make sure the work is actually done — and done right. We provide independent inspections tied to your draw schedule, so you only pay for quality, completed work. No guesswork. No overpayments.
We help you:
Keep contractors accountable from start to finish
Verify construction progress matches payment schedule
Catch sloppy or rushed work before it becomes a problem
Expired Permit Resolution
Stuck with an expired permit? We help you fix it fast and get your project moving again.
Many homeowners don’t realize a permit was never closed out — until it’s time to sell, refinance, or finish the work. We work directly with the City of Austin to resolve expired permits, schedule final inspections, and tie up loose ends.
We help you:
- Reactivate expired permits
- Schedule and prepare for final inspections
- Communicate with the city on your behalf
- Clear permit issues before they cause bigger problems
🔎 Check your permit status now using the City of Austin’s Permit Search Tool
ASR Pool Damage Consulting
Cracked or crumbling pool? We help you understand your options — even when insurance won’t.
Alkali-silica reaction (ASR) is a concrete issue that can destroy pools — and confuse homeowners. We guide you through repair vs. replacement decisions, help document damage, and provide expert support even if insurance declines your claim.
We help you:
- Understand ASR and its long-term effects
- Decide whether to repair or replace
- Get quotes and vet pool contractors
- Manage repairs yourself to save thousands
Owner-Builder Support
Taking on the role of general contractor? We’ll help you do it right — and avoid common mistakes.
Acting as your own GC gives you control and saves money — but it comes with a learning curve. We provide expert advice on hiring, planning, and scheduling to make sure you stay on track and in control.
We help you:
Stay compliant with permits and inspections
Build a realistic project plan and timeline
Hire and manage the right trades
Avoid delays and costly do-overs
Project Check-Ins & Second Opinions
Feel like something’s off? We’ll walk the site with you and give honest, unbiased feedback.
Whether it’s a contractor’s price, pace, or workmanship, sometimes you just need a second set of eyes. We offer independent walkthroughs and advice at any stage of the project — so you know what’s normal, and what’s not.
We help you:
Get honest advice with no upsell or hidden agenda
Review quality of work-in-progress
Assess whether pricing or timelines make sense
Scope of Work Planning
Clarity upfront means fewer surprises later. We help you define your project scope before you break ground.
Starting with a clear scope of work prevents misunderstandings, delays, and budget overruns. We’ll help you outline what’s included, what’s not, and ensure every contractor is bidding on the same plan.
We help you:
Spot vague allowances or missing line items
Write a clear, contractor-ready scope of work
Define materials, specs, and responsibilities
Get consistent bids from all contractors
