How do we get a building permit?

We do that for you. Immediately after our customers sign the proposal, we start the permit process.

We know little about building codes and inspections, how do they work?

During the permit approval process we establish an open line of communication with your municipality. We learn about their specific requirements and inspections and integrate them into the building process. After that we schedule and gain approval of all inspections. Pennsylvania has a statewide building code to help simplify the process.

How long will my project take?

On average, decks take 3 to 4 days, home additions take 2 to 3 months, and custom home builds take 3 to 4 months. When presenting a proposal we include a schedule specifically tailored to your project.

How long until you can start?

When the proposal is signed we put your project into the projected schedule. Typical schedule lead time is between 3 and 8 weeks. All start dates are contingent upon permit approval which typically takes 2 to 4 weeks depending on scope of the project.

Do we need to directly supervise anyone?

No. We offer a complete building experience, with supervision and management provided by the company president.

Do we need to stay home during the building process?

Only customers who prefer to stay home need to. Some customers like to watch the process; others just want it to get done. Everyone needs to take care of the normal life issues and will want the ability to be absent a certain amount of time. Any questions and selections we need you to address can be handled on a daily or weekly basis according to project scope and customer preference.

While building an addition how will our existing home remain secure?

Due to the varied nature of our addition projects, we have a combination of measures we take to secure your home during construction. These include locks, barricades, and temporary structures.

When should our homeowners insurance be notified of improvements?

Our contractors insurance covers all materials until they are installed, at which point the homeowner’s insurance is responsible. The homeowner’s insurance company should be notified upon signing the proposal.

Are you properly insured?

We are properly insured for any damage to your home or property, any structural liability issues, and workers compensation. Insurance certificates can be provided during proposal consideration.

Who can we call if we have any concerns during the proposal consideration or the actual building process?

John Smucker - Company President Office: 717-768-4698 Cell: 717-587-2733 Fax: 717-768-7459

Professional Custom Home Design Services

From design to reality!

Designed to alleviate fears and provide a smooth, easy experience, our custom home design process was created with you in mind. At Forest Ridge Builders, we understand how daunting building a new home or addition can be. The uncertainties surrounding future possibilities, unknown costs, regulations, and approval processes, quickly add up. However, our team will work efficiently and communicate with you from the initial concept and rough numbers to the design phase and approvals, providing top-rated home design services every step of the way.

Personalized Home Layout Designs

Our integrated home layout design approach guarantees every aspect of your new build is carefully considered and expertly executed. With the help of our in-house drafting team, we streamline communication, leaving you with a single point of contact for all custom house layout questions. Our designer and builder also work together, providing unified and budget-conscious recommendations.

When planning your home layout design, it’s important to consider the following:

Lifestyle - design your layout to fit your family’s daily routines, activities, and preferences.
Space utilization – maximize available space and avoid wasted areas in your home.
Future needs – consider changes in family size, resale value, and aging in place.
Traffic flow – ensures smooth movement throughout your home, through well-placed doorways, hallways, and more.

Our team is ready to guide you through our process. Contact our team to design your perfect home!

Easily Design Your Own House Floor Plans With Our Team

Creating your custom house design floor plans has never been easier! With our expert team, you can smoothly design your own house floor plans for your unique needs and style. We make exploring different layouts, features, and options fun and exciting.

Design your own house floor plans using our step-by-step process:

Set Up a Meeting - We will start by sitting down and listening to your needs, dreams, and ideas for the new space. We offer suggestions along the way to help guide you toward the best solution.
Start Researching - Our team will spend time collecting information regarding applicable zoning codes, stormwater regulations, and more. We then create an outline of project details and a rough budget cost range.
Get Approval & Start Drafting – Once payment is collected, we begin drafting plans. We consider the layout and typography of the building or existing home we are working with, along with your needs and wants. We understand that adjustments will be necessary, as new ideas form and work through the revisions until you and our team are satisfied with the design. Additionally, we help you select a civil engineer and septic system consultant, to start developing site and septic plans for your build. This creates consistency with your goals!
Estimating - We put together project proposals the old-fashioned way, taking 3-4 weeks. We price out lists of materials, get proposals from subcontractors, estimate the labor needed, and put together our total project cost. We strive to keep our numbers accurate! The proposal, typically 4 to 7 pages, will include a paragraph with details for every major item in the house. During this time, you can also work on securing financing, with our supporting documents as needed.
Accept Proposal & Acquire Site Permits – Once you accept our proposal and building and site plans, we begin gaining approval for building permits. Typical lead times for gaining approval of stormwater and other site-related permits is 3-4 months, while the lead time for approval of building permits is 3-4 weeks.
Start Building! - From initial contact to start of construction, the timeline is 3-4 months for home additions and 6-8 months for new homes. While time to build for additions is usually 3-4 months for home additions and 4-5 months for new homes. We manage all the building inspections, material ordering, supervision of any subcontractors, and general oversight of the project. You select the finishes and colors with our assistance; we handle the rest!

Our team has the experience necessary to complete projects professionally. Each one of our projects has an assigned project manager, as well as a designated crew leader to lead our crew of craftsmen. Our craftsmen can complete any interior and exterior carpentry-related tasks, and we have a team of trusted subcontractors for masonry and mechanical-related trades.

Still have questions about our process? Reach out or At call to get more information about our custom house design floor plans!

illustration of custom home plan of the first floor

View a Sample First Floor Plan

detailed illustration of main floor plan for custom home

View a Sample Main Floor Plan

Contact Us About Our Custom Home Design Services

In choosing Forest Ridge Builders for custom home design, you’re not just building a house but creating a home tailored to your unique lifestyle and preferences. We are dedicated and committed to making your dream custom home a reality - planning and executing everything to the last detail. Let’s work together to craft a custom home design that reflects your personality and meets your needs for years to come.

Reach out today to learn more about our home design services or visit our Custom Home gallery for inspiration!