About CBI Basements

CBI-Basements, a subsidiary of California Builders, Inc, is a privately owned basement construction company with over 35 years of experience. Specializing in both design and implementation, we can help turn your dreams of expansion into reality.
California Builders, established in 1976, originally undertook projects such as house lifting, cellar and basement waterproofing, and small cellar conversions. As the company’s reputation grew, demand for crawl space to basements conversions also grew by leaps & bounds. CBI-Basements was formed as a specialist company to undertake larger basement construction projects.
Quality Control
At CBI-Basements we are dedicated to providing our clients with impeccable service. Prior to the commencement of any project a contracts supervisor will hold a meeting with you to discuss the following:
Health and Safety – All of our employees are contractually obligated to comply with company safety policies. CBI-Basements is fully insured against public and employer liability. Our insurance protects not only our clients’ homes but also neighboring properties and members of the general public.
Site Procedure – A contracts supervisor visits the site regularly and works with the project manager to ensure project efficiency. All visits to the work site are recorded. In the event of an issue the supervisor can be reached at any time.
Risk Assessment – Prior to the commencement of each contract, a risk assessment survey is conducted and the relevant points are relayed to the contract engineer as well as the client. A written copy of this report is left at the site.
Client Concerns and Requirements – This is your home; we build to your specifications. In any construction project unforeseen events may cause delays, but we carefully consider every action and strive to provide a low-stress experience.
Systems of Operation
Whether you need to retrofit, extend, or build from scratch, we will help you reach your project goals. Our unparalleled success over the last three decades has resulted from thorough planning, efficient management, and methodical workmanship by specialized teams.
Our survey team determines the projected cost and viability of the work site. Experienced ground crews excavate, underpin, place supports, pour concrete, and install drainage systems. Specialist contractors provide waterproofing. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and other tradesmen are employed as needed. Finally, managers and supervisors provide daily supervision and regular testing. On-site meetings are held frequently to keep you updated on your project’s status.
Warranty
All our projects come with a one-year, insurance-backed warranty. We also ensure customer approval through rigorous self-inspection and satisfaction surveys administered upon project completion.
Paul Chretien: Founder and President
Paul has built over 550 shell projects (homes and additions). With over 45 years of experience, he has seen the building industry go through many changes and has contributed to its evolution. In 1979 he invented a portable “panelization factory” that uses standard tools found in fixed units. Using Paul’s creation, carpenters can horizontally assemble and frame wall panels up to 70 feet long. The panels, complete with sub-siding, can then be easily installed on site using specialized wall jacks.
Paul is a German educated builder and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture from the prestigious Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. He is an associate member of the American Institute of Architects.