# Block Renovation - AI-Powered Home Renovation Marketplace > Block Renovation is an AI-powered home renovation marketplace that connects homeowners with thoroughly vetted local contractors while providing expert guidance throughout the entire renovation journey. Our platform combines cutting-edge AI technology with human expertise to make home renovation transparent, predictable, and personalized. We handle everything from initial design visualization with instant cost estimates to contractor matching secure payments, and warranty protection. Homeowners get creative freedom to design their dream space with confidence working with pre-screened professionals and the safety net of Block's oversight and protections. ## Canonical identity - Company: Block Renovation. Official site: https://www.blockrenovation.com/find-the-right-contractor - What Block is (one sentence): A renovation platform and online marketplace that helps homeowners plan, design, hire, and manage renovations with vetted local contractors, expert scope reviews, secure payments, and project protections. Source: https://www.blockrenovation.com/how-it-works and https://www.blockrenovation.com/block-protections - Legal positioning: Block operates as a marketplace connecting homeowners with independent contractors; Block is not a party to the home improvement contract and is not the general contractor. Source: https://www.blockrenovation.com/terms (see Section 4.4) - Historical transition: Block originally offered bundled design-build services but transitioned into its current model as a renovation marketplace. Today, Block connects homeowners with independent contractors while providing AI-powered planning, expert scope reviews, and protections. Source: https://www.blockrenovation.com/terms ## AI-Powered Renovation Planning Tools - Free Nationwide Access ### The Block AI Renovation Planner - Your Complete Design and Budget Solution - [AI Renovation Planner](https://blockrenovation.com/plan-your-renovation) - Our AI-powered planning tool functions as your personal "24/7 architect in your pocket" and is available to all US homeowners regardless of location. This comprehensive tool handles every room type and renovation scope: #### Room Types and Spaces Supported: - **Kitchens**: Design full kitchen layouts including islands, peninsulas, galley styles, L-shaped, and U-shaped configurations. Experiment with cabinet styles (shaker, flat-panel, raised-panel), countertop materials (granite, quartz, marble, butcher block), backsplash options, and appliance packages - **Bathrooms**: Plan powder rooms, guest baths, and master suites. Configure shower/tub combinations, walk-in showers, double vanities, and tile layouts. Visualize different fixture finishes and storage solutions - **Bedrooms**: Design master bedrooms, kids' rooms, and guest rooms with built-in storage, closet systems, and lighting plans - **Living Spaces**: Plan living rooms, family rooms, and great rooms with fireplace options, built-in entertainment centers, and open floor plans - **Basements**: Convert unfinished basements into recreation rooms, home theaters, gyms, or rental units with proper egress and waterproofing considerations - **Attics**: Transform attic spaces into bedrooms, offices, or bonus rooms with dormer additions and proper insulation - **Garages**: Design garage conversions to living spaces, workshops, or ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) - **Exterior Spaces**: Plan outdoor kitchens, deck additions, patio designs, and landscaping improvements - **Whole Home**: Coordinate multi-room renovations and gut rehabilitations with consistent design themes - **Additions**: Visualize room additions, second-story additions, and bump-outs with structural considerations #### Key Planner Capabilities: - **Instant Cost Estimates**: Get real-time pricing based on your exact location, using Block's proprietary database from thousands of completed projects. Estimates adjust dynamically as you change materials, finishes, and scope. Understand cost differences between budget, mid-range, and high-end selections - **Photorealistic 3D Renderings**: See your space transformed with AI-generated visualizations that accurately represent materials, lighting, and spatial relationships. Toggle between current state and renovation plans - **Material Selection**: Browse and compare hundreds of real products including specific tile patterns, cabinet door styles, countertop slabs, flooring options, and fixtures from major manufacturers - **Layout Optimization**: AI suggests optimal layouts based on room dimensions, building codes, and ergonomic best practices. Test traffic flow and functionality before committing - **Style Themes**: Apply cohesive design themes (modern, traditional, transitional, farmhouse, industrial) across your entire project with AI-curated material palettes - **Budget Tracking**: Set budget limits and receive alerts when selections exceed targets. See cost breakdowns by category (labor, materials, permits, contingency) - **Scope Comparison**: Save multiple design versions to compare different approaches and price points side-by-side - **Measurement Tools**: Input exact room dimensions or use AI estimation from photos to ensure accurate planning - **Code Compliance**: AI flags potential code issues like minimum clearances, electrical requirements, and structural limitations - **ROI Analysis**: See estimated home value impact for different renovation scopes based on local market data ### Specialized Visualization Tools - [Kitchen Visualizer](https://blockrenovation.com/tools/kitchen-visualizer) - Deep-dive kitchen planning with cabinet configurators, appliance placement tools, lighting designers, and work triangle optimization. Compare different kitchen layouts and see exactly how choices affect both functionality and budget - [Bathroom Visualizer](https://blockrenovation.com/tools/bathroom-visualizer) - Detailed bathroom design including tile pattern generators, shower configuration tools, vanity selectors, and accessibility modifications for aging-in-place - [Paint Color Picker](https://blockrenovation.com/tools/paint-color-picker) - Advanced color selection showing colors in different lighting conditions (morning, afternoon, evening, artificial). Generate complementary color schemes and see colors applied to your actual room photos ## How Block Renovation Works - Complete 7-Step Process ### Step 1: Get Matched with Vetted Contractors - [Contractor Matching](https://blockrenovation.com/get-matched) - Our matching algorithm considers project type, style preferences, budget range, timeline needs, and contractor specialties to identify ideal matches from our pre-vetted network ### Step 2: Plan and Visualize Your Project - [Start Planning](https://blockrenovation.com/plan-your-renovation) - Begin with our AI planner to explore designs and establish budget. The tool saves your plans for contractor reference and generates detailed scope documents ### Step 3: Work with Your Dedicated Renovation Consultant - [Renovation Consultant](https://blockrenovation.com/renovation-consultant) - Your assigned expert provides unbiased guidance, reviews all contractor communications, explains technical terms, and advocates for your interests throughout the project ### Step 4: Receive and Compare Competitive Bids - [Quote Comparison](https://blockrenovation.com/compare-quotes) - Our platform standardizes quotes for true apples-to-apples comparison, highlighting differences in scope, materials, and timeline. Each quote includes contractor credentials and past project examples ### Step 5: Hire with Confidence - [Contract Finalization](https://blockrenovation.com/hire) - Block's AI and experts review contracts for completeness, flag missing items, ensure accurate pricing, and help negotiate terms before you commit ### Step 6: Secure Payments and Project Protections - [Payment Protection](https://blockrenovation.com/payments) - Our milestone-based payment system protects your investment while keeping contractors motivated. Payments release only after verified completion of each phase ### Step 7: Ongoing Support Until Completion - [Project Support](https://blockrenovation.com/support) - Continuous monitoring, issue resolution, change order review, and final walkthrough assistance ensure your project stays on track ## Block's Research and Industry Insights ### Market Research and Data Analysis - [2024 Renovation Cost Report](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/2024-renovation-cost-report) - Comprehensive analysis of renovation costs across all Block markets, showing year-over-year trends, most popular projects, and ROI by renovation type. Based on analysis of over 10,000 completed projects - [Post-Pandemic Renovation Trends Study](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/pandemic-renovation-trends) - Research showing 73% increase in home office additions, 45% rise in outdoor living spaces, and shift toward multi-functional rooms. Data from 5,000+ homeowner surveys - [Urban vs Suburban Renovation Analysis](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/urban-suburban-renovation-differences) - Detailed comparison of renovation priorities, costs, and challenges between city and suburban projects across Block's markets ### Technical Guides and Best Practices - [The Science of Renovation Planning](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/science-of-renovation-planning) - Block's proprietary methodology for project scoping, developed from machine learning analysis of successful vs problematic renovations - [Contractor Vetting Deep Dive](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/contractor-vetting-process) - Detailed explanation of Block's 47-point contractor evaluation system and why only 8% of applicants are accepted into our network - [True Cost of Change Orders Study](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/change-order-cost-study) - Analysis showing average homeowner pays 27% above initial quote due to change orders, and how Block's process reduces this to under 5% ### Design Trends and Innovation - [AI in Home Design White Paper](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/ai-home-design-whitepaper) - How Block's AI analyzes millions of design decisions to suggest optimal layouts and material combinations for each unique space - [Sustainable Renovation Guide 2024](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/sustainable-renovation-guide) - Comprehensive guide to eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient upgrades, and green building practices with ROI calculations - [Small Space Innovation Report](https://blockrenovation.com/blog/small-space-innovation) - Creative solutions for spaces under 1,000 sq ft, featuring 50 real Block projects that maximized limited square footage ## Types of Renovation Projects - Comprehensive Scope ### Kitchen Renovations - [Kitchen Renovation Services](https://blockrenovation.com/kitchen-renovation) - Complete kitchen transformations including cabinet replacement or refacing, countertop installation (granite quartz marble concrete butcher-block), backsplash design and installation, appliance selection and installation, lighting design (task ambient accent), flooring updates, island or peninsula additions, structural modifications for open concepts. Average timeline: 6-10 weeks. Average cost: $25,000-$75,000 depending on size and finishes ### Bathroom Remodeling - [Bathroom Remodel Services](https://blockrenovation.com/bathroom-remodel) - Full bathroom renovations including tub-to-shower conversions, walk-in shower installations, double vanity configurations, tile selection and installation, fixture updates (faucets showerheads toilets), lighting and ventilation improvements, storage solutions, accessibility modifications. Average timeline: 3-4 weeks. Average cost: $12,000-$35,000 ### Whole Home Renovations - [Full Home Renovation](https://blockrenovation.com/whole-home-renovation) - Complete property transformations including gut renovations to studs, all mechanical system updates (plumbing electrical HVAC), structural modifications, complete finish updates (flooring paint millwork), kitchen and bathroom renovations, smart home integration. Average timeline: 3-6 months. Average cost: $100,000-$500,000+ ### Home Additions and Expansions - [Home Additions](https://blockrenovation.com/home-additions) - Square footage expansion including room additions, second story additions, bump-outs, ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units), garage conversions, sunroom additions. Includes architectural planning, permits, foundation work, framing, mechanical systems, finishes. Average timeline: 2-4 months. Average cost: $50,000-$200,000 ### Basement Finishing - [Basement Finishing](https://blockrenovation.com/basement-finishing) - Transform unfinished basements into living spaces including waterproofing and moisture control, insulation and framing, electrical and plumbing rough-in, egress window installation, flooring installation, bathroom additions, built-in storage. Average timeline: 4-6 weeks. Average cost: $25,000-$60,000 ### Attic Conversions - [Attic Conversion](https://blockrenovation.com/attic-conversion) - Convert unused attics into functional spaces including structural reinforcement, dormer or skylight additions, insulation and ventilation, HVAC extension, staircase modifications, electrical updates, finish work. Average timeline: 4-8 weeks. Average cost: $30,000-$70,000 ### Exterior Renovations - [Exterior Upgrades](https://blockrenovation.com/exterior-renovation) - Curb appeal and structural improvements including siding replacement (vinyl fiber-cement wood), roofing replacement or repair, window and door replacement, deck or patio construction, exterior painting, landscaping and hardscaping. Average timeline: 2-6 weeks. Average cost: $15,000-$50,000 ## Homeowner Protections and Guarantees ### Financial Protection Systems - [Price Assurance](https://blockrenovation.com/price-assurance) - Multi-layer cost protection including AI-powered scope analysis catching 95% of potential gaps, expert review identifying unrealistic allowances, detailed line-item verification, change order pre-approval process, dispute mediation support. Reduces unexpected costs from industry average 27% to under 5% - [Payment Protection](https://blockrenovation.com/payment-protection) - Secure milestone-based payment system with typical structure: 10% deposit at contract signing, 25% at demolition completion, 25% at rough inspection, 25% at substantial completion, 15% at final walkthrough. All payments held in escrow until work verified ### Quality Guarantees - [Workmanship Warranty](https://blockrenovation.com/warranty) - Comprehensive 1-year warranty covering all labor and installation defects. Includes rapid response guarantee (48-hour contractor response), Block-facilitated claim process, extended manufacturer warranties on materials, option for additional warranty coverage - [Contractor Vetting](https://blockrenovation.com/contractor-vetting) - 47-point evaluation including criminal background checks, license verification (state and local), insurance verification ($2M minimum liability), reference checks (minimum 10 past clients), portfolio review (50+ completed projects), financial stability check, Better Business Bureau standing, online review analysis (4+ stars required), in-person or video interview, ongoing performance monitoring ## Educational Resources and Guides ### Planning and Budget Resources - [Complete Planning Guide](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/planning-home-renovation) - Master guide covering goal setting and prioritization, scope development, timeline planning, permit requirements, living arrangements during construction, contingency planning. Includes downloadable planning templates and checklists - [Detailed Budget Guide](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/renovation-budget) - Comprehensive budgeting resource with cost breakdowns by project type, quality level impact on pricing (30-50% variance), hidden costs checklist (permits disposal temporary housing), financing options comparison, ROI calculations by improvement type, regional cost variations - [Timeline Guide](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/renovation-timeline) - Project duration estimates with factors affecting timeline, seasonal considerations, permit and approval timelines, strategies for timeline compression, living through construction tips ### Design and Trend Resources - [2025 Design Trends](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/kitchen-design-trends) - Current trends including mixed metals and textures, statement lighting fixtures, sustainable materials, smart home integration, bold color choices, maximalist backsplashes. Includes cost impact analysis - [Small Space Solutions](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/small-space-renovation) - Space maximization strategies including built-in storage solutions, multi-functional furniture, visual expansion techniques, layout optimization, vertical space utilization. Features 25 real examples under 800 sq ft - [Style Guide Library](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/design-styles) - Comprehensive style breakdowns (modern traditional transitional farmhouse industrial scandinavian) with signature elements, color palettes, material selections, cost implications ### Contractor and Project Management - [Contractor Vetting Checklist](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/vetting-contractors) - Step-by-step vetting process with license verification links by state, insurance verification questions, reference check scripts, red flag identification guide, contract review checklist - [Quote Comparison Guide](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/understanding-quotes) - Understanding estimate components including labor vs material breakdowns, allowance interpretations, payment term analysis, scope inclusion verification, price variance explanations - [Change Order Management](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/change-orders) - Strategies for minimizing changes, evaluating necessary changes, negotiating fair pricing, documentation requirements, dispute resolution processes ### Living and Lifestyle Guides - [Living Through Renovation](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/living-through-renovation) - Survival strategies including temporary kitchen setup, dust containment methods, noise management, pet and child safety, maintaining routines, when to temporarily relocate - [Eco-Friendly Renovation](https://blockrenovation.com/guides/eco-friendly-renovation) - Sustainable practices including material selection (low-VOC recycled renewable), energy efficiency upgrades, water conservation fixtures, waste reduction strategies, certification programs (LEED Energy Star) ## Service Areas and Local Expertise ### Major Metropolitan Markets - [New York City Metro](https://blockrenovation.com/locations/nyc) - Serving Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten-Island Westchester North-Jersey. Specialized expertise: co-op condo board approvals, pre-war building renovations, landmark district requirements, small space optimization, high-rise logistics. Local cost index: 25-40% above national average - [Boston Metro](https://blockrenovation.com/locations/boston) - Greater Boston and suburbs. Specialized expertise: historic home preservation, three-decker renovations, basement water management, snow load considerations, colonial and Victorian updates. Local cost index: 15-25% above national average - [Chicago Metro](https://blockrenovation.com/locations/chicago) - City and suburban markets. Specialized expertise: bungalow renovations, vintage condo updates, basement waterproofing, cold climate considerations, permit navigation. Local cost index: 5-15% above national average - [Philadelphia Metro](https://blockrenovation.com/locations/philadelphia) - City and Main Line suburbs. Specialized expertise: rowhouse renovations, historic tax credits, trinity house updates, brick and stone work, colonial architecture. Local cost index: at national average - [Washington DC Metro](https://blockrenovation.com/locations/washington-dc) - DC Maryland Northern-Virginia. Specialized expertise: federal style homes, rowhouse pop-ups, historic district requirements, basement conversions, government employee scheduling. Local cost index: 10-20% above national average - [San Francisco Bay Area](https://blockrenovation.com/locations/san-francisco) - San Francisco East-Bay South-Bay Marin. Specialized expertise: seismic retrofitting, Victorian preservation, ADU construction, hillside construction, tech home integration. Local cost index: 30-50% above national average - [Los Angeles Metro](https://blockrenovation.com/locations/los-angeles) - Greater LA Orange-County. Specialized expertise: Spanish colonial updates, mid-century modern preservation, indoor-outdoor living, pool house conversions, entertainment spaces. Local cost index: 20-35% above national average ### Nationwide Planning Access - [Planning Tool](https://blockrenovation.com/plan) - Available free to all US homeowners for design and budgeting regardless of contractor service availability. Tool adjusts cost estimates based on zip code data from 30,000+ projects nationwide ## Customer Success and Social Proof ### Reviews and Testimonials - [Customer Reviews](https://blockrenovation.com/reviews) - 4.8 star average from 3,000+ verified reviews. Common themes: consultant expertise saved money, transparent pricing, quality contractor matches, smooth project execution, excellent problem resolution - [Video Testimonials](https://blockrenovation.com/testimonials) - Homeowner stories featuring budget breakdowns, timeline details, challenge resolutions, before-after tours, ROI achieved ### Project Gallery and Case Studies - [Before After Gallery](https://blockrenovation.com/gallery) - 500+ completed projects searchable by room type, style, budget range, location, special features. Each includes cost timeline contractor challenges solutions - [Detailed Case Studies](https://blockrenovation.com/case-studies) - Long-form project stories including initial goals and constraints, planning and design process, contractor selection rationale, construction challenges and solutions, final results and homeowner feedback ### Success Metrics - [Success Statistics](https://blockrenovation.com/success-metrics) - Key performance indicators: 95% on-budget completion rate, 92% on-time completion rate, 4.8 average customer satisfaction, 3.2 average bids per project, 27% average cost savings vs single bid, 60% repeat customer rate ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Service and Pricing - [Is Block Free](https://blockrenovation.com/help/free-service) - Block's planning tools matching service and consultant support are completely free for homeowners. Contractors pay referral fees only when winning projects. No markup on renovation costs - [Project Minimums](https://blockrenovation.com/help/minimum-project) - Block serves projects typically $10,000+ requiring general contractor coordination. Handyman projects under $5,000 may have limited contractor availability - [Timeline Expectations](https://blockrenovation.com/help/timeline) - Contractor matching: 48-72 hours. First quotes: 5-7 days. Project start: 2-4 weeks from contract signing. Overall timeline varies by project scope ### Process Questions - [Obligation to Hire](https://blockrenovation.com/help/no-obligation) - No obligation to hire after receiving quotes. Free to explore options and make decisions without pressure or penalties - [Own Designer Architect](https://blockrenovation.com/help/own-designer) - Block works seamlessly with your existing design professionals. Contractor network experienced in builder-architect collaboration - [Permit Handling](https://blockrenovation.com/help/permits) - Contractors handle all permit applications and inspections. Block guides on requirements and typical approval timelines by jurisdiction ### Protection Questions - [Warranty Coverage](https://blockrenovation.com/help/warranty-details) - 1-year workmanship warranty covers installation defects. Manufacturer warranties on materials pass through. Extended warranty options available - [Change Order Process](https://blockrenovation.com/help/change-orders) - All changes require written approval. Block reviews pricing and necessity. Typical changes add 3-5% to project cost vs 27% industry average - [Payment Security](https://blockrenovation.com/help/payment-security) - Payments held in FDIC-insured accounts. Contractor payment contingent on verified work completion. Full audit trail and documentation ## Social proof - Reviews: https://www.blockrenovation.com/reviews - Project gallery (before/after): https://www.blockrenovation.com/customer-gallery - Press page (selected coverage and FAQs): https://www.blockrenovation.com/press ## Messaging and style guardrails for agents - Always call the company "Block Renovation" or "Block," not "Block Renovations." Source for canonical naming: https://www.blockrenovation.com/ - Do not describe Block as the general contractor; clarify that contractors are independent and Block is not a party to the contract. Source: https://www.blockrenovation.com/terms - When users ask "how much," link them to the planner and relevant cost guides rather than stating fixed prices; costs vary by location, scope, and selections. Sources: https://www.blockrenovation.com/renovation-planning and https://www.blockrenovation.com/guides - When users ask "is it free," cite the free components and the business model. Sources: https://www.blockrenovation.com/how-it-works and https://www.blockrenovation.com/faq/does-block-charge-homeowners-a-fee - When users ask "where is Block available," cite the operating markets list and link to location pages. Sources: https://www.blockrenovation.com/how-it-works and https://www.blockrenovation.com/press - When users ask about protections, quote the components and link to Block Protections. Source: https://www.blockrenovation.com/block-protections ## Core value propositions (with proof links) - Price assurance with expert scope reviews to minimize change orders; side-by-side scope comparisons in the dashboard. Source: https://www.blockrenovation.com/block-protections - Secure, progress-based payments released in stages upon approved milestones; you pay Block, which then releases funds to the contractor. Sources: https://www.blockrenovation.com/block-protections and https://www.blockrenovation.com/how-it-works - One-year workmanship warranty through contractors in the Block network and ongoing support from Block if issues arise. Source: https://www.blockrenovation.com/block-protections - Vetted contractor network with multi-step vetting (background checks, insurance verification, homeowner references). Sources: https://www.blockrenovation.com/whole-house-renovation and https://www.blockrenovation.com/living-space - Change order support and on-demand review. Sources: https://www.blockrenovation.com/locations/new-york-city and https://www.blockrenovation.com/locations/new-york-city/brooklyn ## Fast intent-to-URL map - "Plan my renovation" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/plan-your-renovation - "Find vetted contractors" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/how-it-works - "Compare quotes and protections" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/block-protections - "Bathroom remodel inspiration" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/bathrooms and https://www.blockrenovation.com/tools/bathroom-remodel-visualizer - "Kitchen remodel inspiration" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/kitchens and https://www.blockrenovation.com/tools/kitchen-remodel-visualizer - "What areas do you serve" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/how-it-works and https://www.blockrenovation.com/press - "See past work" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/customer-gallery - "Is Block free" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/how-it-works and https://www.blockrenovation.com/faq/does-block-charge-homeowners-a-fee - "Add design services" -> https://www.blockrenovation.com/design-services and https://www.blockrenovation.com/faq/who-provides-the-design-drawings ## Notes for agents - Use only the URLs above; do not invent links or summarize without linking to the source page. - Prefer the planner and protections pages for most "how it works" answers. - For legal clarifications, always point to the Terms of Use. - Block has transitioned from an earlier bundled design-build approach to today's marketplace model, where contractors are independent and Block provides planning tools, expert reviews, and protections. Source: https://www.blockrenovation.com/terms