Frequently Asked Home Building Questions (FAQs)
How long has Kensington been in business?
Kensington Master Builders has been in business for 24 years. We operated as a proprietorship for 11 years (1986-1997), and incorporated in September 1997.
How long does it take to construct a house?
This is one of the most common questions about home building. When the final plans are available and the land has been purchased, it takes about 12 to 14 months to build your house, depending on the size and specifications.
Specifically for the homes we build in Slave Lake, the situation may present unforeseeable delays in the supply of materials and labour; however, we anticipate that construction will be completed within the following time frames after the approval of each building permit.
Vitality Series: 9-12 months (typically more simple construction style)
Executive Series: 12-14 months (typically more complex construction style)
How much do you charge per square foot?
It’s difficult to quote a price per square foot because Kensington builds a variety of homes. Price is affected by a number of variables, including the type of construction, energy efficiency rating, construction type (framed, insulated concrete form), style, exterior finishes, interior finishes, fixtures, energy choices, geographical location, etc. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your dream home »
Where does Kensington have lots available?
Kensington is able to build in a number of communities and will build to suit. We currently maintain a small inventory of land throughout Edmonton and the surrounding area, and we can help you locate available lots or parcels. Alternatively we can arrange to purchase a specific lot for you if the land costs are to be included in the mortgage for the house we are going to build.
How important is energy efficiency and the environment to Kensington?
Building energy efficient houses is our top priority—it’s one area that makes us truly unique from other builders. We endeavor to build the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly houses that are financially feasible to our clients. We are very conscious in choosing environmentally friendly materials and products for the construction of each house and in advising our clients of the “green choices” that are available in the finishing and decorating products that they choose for their home. Not only do we consider the energy to heat or cool your house, but we are also keenly aware of the impact that building a house has on the environment. Our homes have an average EnerGuide rating of 82 which is significantly higher than the average house built today. We have been building to the R-2000 energy standard for many years, long before it was the cool thing to do. Every house we build is registered with the R-2000 Program or the Alberta Built Green Program.
Which associations does Kensington belong to?
We are members of the Alberta New Home Warranty Program, the Greater Edmonton Home Builders’ Association, the Professional Home Builders Institute of Alberta, and the Canadian Home Builders Association.
What recognized designations are represented at Kensington Master Builders?
As our company name indicates, we are a Master Builder. We are also an R-2000-certified builder, and we have extensive training in Geothermal Heating and Cooling System installation techniques.
What areas (towns) does Kensington build in?
In recent years, our projects have been primarily in the greater Edmonton area including Sherwood Park, County of Strathcona, County of Leduc, County of Sturgeon, County of Beaver, County of Parkland. We have built in Ft. McMurray, Vegreville and Viking. We are also able to build in the MD #124 of Lesser Slave River.
Do I need to have architectural plans?
This is a very common question. In short, no, but if you do, that’s fine. Our Master Builder will review your plans with you prior to providing a cost to construct. Alternatively, we are happy to provide consultation, design, preliminary, and final plans for you.
Does Kensington have plans that I can choose from?
Yes, we have a wide variety of bungalow and 2-storey house plans for both town and acreage lots. View our Vitality series and Executive series to see the many styles we have to choose from.
Can I make alternations or revisions to the plans?
Changes and revisions can be made; however, a fee may be assessed based on the extent of the drafting involved. The fastest way to get construction started is to choose an existing plan with minimal or no revisions.
What choices do I have in the design, finishing, and fixtures of my home?
Your choices are only restricted by your budget. Kensington will always exceed the requirements of the Alberta Building Code, and therefore we have a level of quality of products and building techniques that we will not compromise on. As long as those criteria are met, we will do everything we can to deliver exactly what you want within your budget.
Does Kensington have a show home?
We currently have 2 show homes in the Edmonton area. The Willowgreene, our walk-out bungalow estate show home is located in Crimson Leaf Estates, an acreage community just 2 minutes southeast of Sherwood Park. The Cameron, our executive 2-storey show home is located in Allard, a new community located in south Edmonton. Please contact us to book an appointment to view these homes at a time that is convenient for you. Residents outside of the Edmonton area can call our toll-free number 1 855 449 3137 to book an appointment.
Does Kensington have an “after-sales service plan?”
Our after-sales service plan includes warranty requests at 6 months, 1 year, 18 months, and 2 years after the possession date. Kensington has been recognized for having one of the best service plans in our industry. In 2000, Kensington received the Golden Hammer Award, and in 2005, The Distinguished Builder Medallion presented by the Alberta New Home Warranty Program commemorating 10 and 15 years respectively for consecutive years of being a Service Award recipient.
