When property owners in the Bay Area begin exploring seismic retrofits, they often start by comparing engineering estimates or permit timelines. But beneath the surface lies a far more unpredictable — and financially dangerous — variable: the construction phase.
Many owners and property managers don’t realize that construction, not engineering or permitting, is where cost control can truly be lost… or secured.
“When it comes to the cost of a seismic retrofit, there’s four main parts: measuring the building, engineering, permitting, and construction. Construction is the big variable that makes a difference in the final cost,” says Connor Daly, founder of Connor Daly Construction.
That variable often expands with unexpected change orders, extended project timelines, or inefficiencies caused by inexperience. And unfortunately, by the time the construction crew is onsite, it’s often too late to reassess your project path.
The Risk of Inexperience in Construction Execution
A poorly managed retrofit can leave you with spiraling costs, miscommunication, and delays that disrupt tenants or rental income. Connor Daly Construction is designed to solve this exact pain point for Bay Area owners who need certainty.
“We do them right the first time. We don’t make mistakes, which keeps construction time and cost down. And any unforeseen conditions that we get while we’re doing it, we’ve already dealt with them in the past,” explains Daly.
This isn’t just about construction competence — it’s about foresight. It’s about minimizing disruption and maximizing every dollar you’re investing in your property’s long-term safety.
The Value of an Elite Team That Understands the Whole System
With many firms, engineering and construction are siloed. That disconnect often leads to inefficiencies, rework, and disputes between teams. But for Daly, who holds a master’s degree in Construction Management and Structural Engineering from Stanford, the real strength lies in integration.
“I’m able to help design the building and the retrofit in the most cost-effective manner for us to do it,” Daly notes. “My education helps me become the best teammate to the engineers… to make sure you’re getting the lowest cost and the best construction possible.”
That’s not marketing spin. It’s a strategy grounded in hundreds of retrofits executed across the Bay Area, from multifamily soft story projects in Oakland to seismic upgrades for single-family homes.
So, What Should You Be Asking Yourself?
If you’re evaluating a seismic retrofit, don’t just ask: What’s the cheapest estimate I can get?
Start asking more revealing questions:
- How much construction experience does this team really have with seismic retrofits in Bay Area buildings like mine?
- Will the construction team know how to handle unforeseen issues without adding weeks or thousands to the project?
- Is my engineer working in lockstep with my contractor — or am I left managing two disconnected parties?
- Am I confident this team will keep my tenants happy and my timeline on track?
If you’re unsure how to answer these, Connor Daly Construction is here to walk you through them.
Contact us today to discuss your building and get a comprehensive look at how we simplify seismic retrofitting — from permits to final inspection. [License #546425]
Why Connor Daly Construction Delivers Where Others Fall Short
Construction is the final and most expensive piece of your seismic retrofit — and the one where mistakes are hardest to undo. With Connor Daly Construction, you’re not just getting a contractor. You’re getting a team that sees every step before it happens.
“We’ve performed hundreds of these. We’re able to do these quickly, efficiently… approved by the building department, approved by the engineer, and keep on moving forward,” Daly emphasizes.
It’s about momentum. It’s about mastery. It’s about getting it done right — and never paying twice.
Ready to bring confidence to your retrofit? Let’s build something safe, smart, and strong together.