Question 1

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in St. Augustine?

Accepted Answer

A mid-range kitchen remodel in St. Johns County, with new cabinets, quartz counters, tile, lighting and appliances in the same footprint, typically runs 45,000 to 85,000 dollars in 2026. Moving walls, plumbing or gas pushes it well above 100,000 dollars. Cosmetic refreshes with painted cabinets and new counters can be done for 15,000 to 30,000 dollars. Permits are required for electrical and plumbing changes.

Question 2

Do I need a permit to remodel a bathroom in St. Johns County?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes. Replacing fixtures in the same spot sometimes qualifies as repair, but moving plumbing, adding circuits, changing a tub to a shower or altering walls requires a permit from St. Johns County Building Services or your city. A licensed contractor will pull it and arrange inspections. Ask the building office if you are unsure, since unpermitted work surfaces during home sales.

Question 3

What does it cost to build a house in St. Johns County?

Accepted Answer

Custom and semi-custom new construction in St. Johns County runs roughly 225 to 400 dollars per square foot in 2026 for the house alone, not counting land, site work, impact fees and well or septic where needed. Lot prep in flood zones or on fill adds cost. Impact fees and school concurrency fees in the county are substantial, so ask the builder for an itemized budget including fees.

Question 4

How do I check if a contractor is licensed in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Search myfloridalicense.com under Verify a License for the company name or the license number. You want a current CGC, CBC or CRC for building work. Also check for complaints and confirm the qualifying agent is actually involved in your job. St. Johns County does not license general contractors separately, so a county business tax receipt by itself proves nothing.

Question 5

What is a notice of commencement and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A notice of commencement is a document recorded with the St. Johns County Clerk before work starts on projects above a dollar threshold set by Florida law. It establishes the start date for lien rights and protects you in payment disputes. Your contractor or lender typically prepares it, you sign it, and a copy is posted on site. Ask the office if your job requires one.

Question 6

How long does a permit take in St. Johns County?

Accepted Answer

Simple residential permits like windows or a water heater are often issued in days. Remodels and additions typically take two to six weeks for plan review, longer if revisions are needed or the home is in a flood zone or the St. Augustine historic district, where Historic Architectural Review Board approval comes first. A local GC who submits complete plans the first time saves the most time.

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