Custom Home Construction in Brandon, FL
From lot to lockbox. Foundation to final walkthrough. One licensed contractor managing every phase of your custom home build.
Brandon is an unincorporated community in Hillsborough County where all building permits run through Hillsborough County Development Services via the HillsGovHub portal. The flat terrain and sandy soil make site preparation straightforward for most lots, though scattered wetland areas require environmental surveys before construction can begin. Drome Contracting delivers custom homes in Brandon under fixed-price contracts, managing every permit, inspection, and trade from foundation to CO.
Our Process
How We Work
Consultation
We review your plans, walk your lot, and discuss your vision. If you do not have plans yet, we help you define scope and connect with architects.
Estimate
You receive a fixed-price, line-item bid. Every material, labor cost, and permit fee is listed before you sign.
Permits
We pull all required building permits from the county. Site plan, structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical.
Site Prep and Foundation
Clearing, grading, and foundation pour. Engineered for Florida soil conditions and wind loads.
Framing and Dry-In
Framing, roofing, windows, and doors. Hurricane-rated where required by code.
Mechanical Rough-In
Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC rough-in. All inspections passed before closing walls.
Interior Finishes
Drywall, paint, trim, cabinets, countertops, flooring, fixtures. Your selections installed to spec.
Final Walkthrough
We walk every room together. Punch list items addressed before certificate of occupancy.
Local Expertise
What We Know About Building Here
All permits processed through Hillsborough County Development Services (HillsGovHub portal)
Flat sandy terrain simplifies grading but requires engineered fill in low-lying areas
Scattered wetlands may trigger environmental survey requirements before site clearing
Residential plan review typically takes 10 to 15 business days through the county
Why Drome
Credentials That Matter
Florida Certified General Contractor
General liability insurance coverage
Full workers compensation coverage
Richard Drouet personally manages your project
FAQ
Common Questions
How long does it take to build a custom home in Brandon?
Most custom homes take 8-14 months depending on size, complexity, and permitting timelines in Hillsborough County. We provide a detailed timeline at contract signing.
Do I need to own a lot before contacting you?
Not necessarily. We can evaluate lots you are considering and advise on buildability, soil conditions, and permitting requirements in Brandon.
What is included in a fixed-price contract?
Everything from permits to final walkthrough. Materials, labor, all subcontractor trades, permit fees, and inspections. No allowances that balloon later.
What wind mitigation features does Florida Building Code require for new homes in Brandon?
Florida Building Code requires hurricane straps tying the roof to walls, impact-rated windows or shutters, reinforced garage doors, and a secondary water barrier on the roof deck. These features are mandatory in Hillsborough County, not optional upgrades. We build every home to meet or exceed current wind speed zone requirements.
How does Florida sandy soil and a high water table affect my foundation in Brandon?
Most of the Tampa Bay area sits on sandy soil with a water table that can be just a few feet below grade. This means foundations need engineered compaction, proper drainage design, and sometimes deeper footings or helical piers. We perform soil testing before pouring any foundation in Hillsborough County to avoid settling or moisture intrusion.
Are hurricane impact-rated windows required for new construction in Hillsborough County?
Yes. Florida Building Code requires all new homes in the wind-borne debris region to have impact-rated windows and doors or an approved shutter system covering every opening. Impact-rated products cost more upfront but eliminate the need for plywood or panel shutters and can reduce your homeowner insurance premium significantly.
How does Florida rainy season affect new home construction timelines?
Florida rainy season runs roughly from June through October, with afternoon storms that can delay concrete pours, framing, and roofing work. We account for weather delays in every project timeline. Starting your build in late fall or winter can reduce weather-related delays by several weeks.
What energy code requirements apply to new homes in Brandon?
Florida Energy Conservation Code requires minimum R-30 ceiling insulation, R-13 wall insulation, SEER 15+ HVAC systems, and low-E coated windows. In Hillsborough County, every new home must pass a blower door test and duct leakage test before receiving a certificate of occupancy. These requirements keep your utility bills manageable in the Florida heat.
Licensed and Insured
Serving Brandon and Hillsborough County
Describe your project in a few sentences. We call you back within one business day with honest answers and a clear next step. No sales pitch. No obligation.
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