About JLGC Consulting Group
Contracting History in San Diego, CA
In 1979 Jim Lucas co-founded Gemini Construction Company which in a few years became one of the premiere custom builders in the San Diego area. Working with some of the most discerning architects and clientele, Gemini Construction developed a reputation for technical expertise with an unsurpassed attention to detail, quality and customer service.
The company quickly evolved into an all-encompassing residential builder with over fifty employees performing most subcontracted work in-house. This included foundations, masonry, waterproofing, framing, plumbing, electrical, drywall, tile and finish work. Eventually Gemini opened a cabinet and woodworking shop where they fabricated custom cabinets, doors, windows and mill work for their own projects. This led to the purchase of a local heating, air-conditioning and sheet metal shop in an effort to further their ability to custom fabricate and supply materials in-house.
Consumer Advocacy
It was during these early years (Circa 1982) that Mr. Lucas developed and published a Consumer Protection Check List for residential construction projects. Its release received several notices in the local media. Conceived as a tool to promote transparency in the bidding process, it has hundreds of categories that cover every aspect of the estimating and budgeting exercise.
A New Service
In 2014 Gemini Construction closed its offices and shop in La Jolla, CA. after thirty-five years of serving the community. Not ready to retire, Mr. Lucas is now offering his knowledge and expertise via a new consulting service dedicated to resolving complicated issues that arise in the residential building experience. From investigations and project management to expert witness work, JLGC Consulting provides a full spectrum of services designed to assist the consumer, the construction industry and the legal community by helping to bring a positive resolution to a variety of challenging situations.
A Philosophy Of Conscientiousness And Attention To Detail
It is our attitude that even the smallest of issues on a construction project require attention, and, if left unresolved, may lead to greater concerns down the road. Frequently, those lesser issues can be indicators of other, more serious conditions, that present themselves later on, usually when least expected.
Our job is to circumvent those occurrences, and, whenever possible, avoid them all together. We provide a focused and urgent approach to any aspect of a building project that shows signs of neglect or that is problematic for whatever reason. An investment in oversight, that includes involvement by an engaged client, can mean the difference between a harmonious building experience and one full of delays and disappointment.
Client Testimonials
I have known Jim Lucas for ten years first as a general contractor who completely renovated a beach front property for me; and ,more recently as President of an HOA when the Board relied on Jim’s expertise.Jim Lucas has a career of hands on construction experience which is the foundation of his technical knowledge. Jim is an expert in practical and objective analysis of problems . His skills are strong in problem definition, problem solving and problem avoidance.Jim is responsible and responsive. I recommend Jim Lucas without reservation.
Jim was the general contractor on a major remodel, and a new home construction for me in La Jolla. He also is serving as my representative on a duplex construction project in Manhattan Beach.He is thorough, pays attention to details and follows up on issues. He also works to come up with straightforward and simple solutions.His practical experience and deep understanding of construction allow him to produce cost effective, quality solutions for his clients.
Jim Lucas was in charge of my very extensive remodel in 1991. He and my architect cooperated well which made it easy for everybody, including me. The subcontractors he chose were competent, reliable and showed up the right time. He kept a close watch on the whole operation. We worked on a time and material basis. I can recommend him as a honest contractor, still helpful when needed after all these years.
I have known Jim Lucas for about 20 years.
About 15 years ago I bought a property in La Jolla with the thought that the house on the property being built in 1957 would one day need a remodel. A couple years later I began the process of interviewing various builders. At that time Jim and his partner had Gemini Construction and I settled on them to do the remodel. Some of the things that stuck in my mind about Jim were that he listened to my concerns, wasn’t pushy or demanding, was easy to talk to and was very understanding with what I wanted to accomplish. We built a custom home unique in its structure. Also important was Jim’s vast knowledge of the contractors I should use for the various parts and stages of my construction, professionals all and very competent in their work. I would have no hesitation recommending Jim Lucas for anyone’s project.
We have done 2 extensive renovations on our home in the past 5 years, both built by Gemini Construction, headed by Jim Lucas.The quality of the work was excellent and the price was competitive.Jim ensures that the work is completed on time, as promised and he does not compromise on quality in any way whatsoever .We have no hesitation in recommending Jim for any construction projects.
We worked with Jim Lucas when our home underwent a major renovation essentially rebuilding the entire house from the studs and up. Thanks to the professionalism, leadership and expertise of Jim Lucas, the project was completed on time, on budget and with quality. His knowledge of the process from plans and permitting to completion facilitated a superb outcome. He also has access to pool of excellent subcontractors. Despite years since completion, we have had no problems and Jim remains a valuable resource for any projects that have arisen. We have recommended Jim Lucas to our friends and continue to recommend him without any reservations.
After building two projects with Jim, we can say without hesitation: Jim is a knowledgeable professional with the expertise, personal service, creativity, and problem-avoidance skills to produce a top quality result.
My wife and I retained Jim Lucas of Gemini Construction when we built our home in La Jolla number of years ago. Jim came to us through our architect who highly recommended him as a reputable builder of many years.Jim and his staff as well as his sub contractor’s were all of the highest caliber and attentive to our needs and requests and enjoyed a good working relationship with Jim.
He has a vast and experienced understanding of not only the construction process but of the rules and regulations that are the pitfalls of construction. He enjoys close relationships with relevant city building offices and officials which facilitated getting the construction done in good time.One of the most important aspects to us of his work ethic is his availability and responsiveness at all times and even today after having completed the project a number of years ago, he still makes himself available to solve any problems we might have.
Knowledgeable, responsive, obliging and trustworthy are the attributes that define him.
We would highly recommend him for any construction related issues.