Devengenzo & Company provides a complete range of construction, engineering, and drainage services for residential and commercial clients in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. The company is well-known for its expertise in surface and subsurface drainage, but it also has the in-house capabilities to install automated irrigation systems; work on sewer systems, retaining walls, foundations and framing; renovate kitchens and bathrooms; build spec homes, room additions and accessory dwelling units (ADUs); and much more.
President Nick Devengenzo says Devengenzo & Company’s small size and hands-on business approach have allowed it to develop and maintain a loyal clientele base. “We’ve been in business a long time, but we still hand-manage everything and give each client our full attention. Our customers know we’re going to be there throughout every step of their projects, and they really appreciate that.”
Devengenzo & Company utilizes its in-house team to take a full-service approach to its clients’ projects, handling everything from start to finish. “Our experience in all phases of residential construction allows us to offer total project management from inception to completion,” adds Mr. Devengenzo.
“Our goal is to complete every project on time and on budget. Even if we discover something that causes a delay, we’ll communicate with the client and clearly explain the situation. We strive for perfection in all phases of our work, and we welcome the opportunity to serve each customer.”
Take simple steps to ensure your home drainage system lasts as long as possible.
First, confirm that your home builder or drainage contractor installed high-quality products in your drainage system. Some companies will use corrugated piping, which collects debris and causes system backups. It’s important to request a smooth wall drainage pipe with a high crush rating.
SDR-35 pipe is very durable, resistant to debris buildup and easy to flush out. According to Nick Devengenzo, president of Devengenzo & Company in Concord, you should have a cleanout at every downspout, and the entire system should be flushed with water in the spring and fall. Systems should be installed with Sanitary Tees, Wyes, 45-degree fittings, and 22-degree fittings so they can be cleaned and flushed. Don’t use 90-degree fittings or straight Tees.
Surprisingly, even some high-end home builders use inferior products on drainage systems—they only guarantee their work, not their products, so their customers have no recourse for the cheap materials when they face drainage issues years down the road. To avoid this situation, Mr. Devengenzo says it’s important to carefully interview contractors and drainage companies before hiring. “Ask how long they’ve been in business, what type of experience they have and if they’ll give you recent references. Make sure you call a range of references and find out if they were happy with both the short- and long-term work.”
Sewage systems
Sewer discharge piping is completely separate from site drainage systems. The sewer lateral should be cleaned once every five years. Mr. Devengenzo advises having a sewer system backflow unit installed outside your home to prevent sewage backup into toilets or bathtubs. With a backflow unit, the waste spills outside to prevent costly cleanup inside.
Maintaining customer satisfaction is a crucial aspect of any business, but it’s even more important for drainage contractors that have earned Diamond Certified. For Devengenzo & Company, the key to achieving and maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction is simple: focus on exceeding expectations at every level of its service, regardless of the size of the project. “We offer personalized service, attention to detail and cleanliness on every job,” says President Nick Devengenzo. “Our goal is to make every project as close to perfect as possible—not just mechanically, but visually as well.”
Devengenzo & Company has been providing construction, engineering, and drainage services for residential and commercial clients in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties since 1970. The company is known for its expertise in surface and subsurface drainage, but it also has the training and equipment to renovate kitchens and bathrooms, repair damage caused by landslides, install automated irrigation systems, work on sewer systems, and more.
Unlike contractors that focus on a specific aspect of the industry and limit their services as a result, Devengenzo & Company holds separate licenses (general engineering and general contracting) so it can provide its clients with complete indoor and outdoor construction services, from drainage systems and yard grading to whole house remodels. “We have the experience and knowledge to solve any problems that our customers experience,” affirms Mr. Devengenzo.
To further differentiate itself from its competition, Devengenzo & Company provides every project with hands-on expertise. “We’ve been in business for a long time, but we’re still small and hands-on,” says Mr. Devengenzo. “I run all the jobs and manage the whole process step-by-step, which our clients really appreciate.”
