Today we’d like to introduce you to Sean Hanley.
Sean, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born on the East Coast in Hackensack, New Jersey, and began working as a carpenter at the age of 15 in Cape, May during the summers while also working as a fisherman.
From the very beginning I got my hands dirty starting with cleaning up sites, then moving forward with framing, concrete, doors and windows, and renovations and remodeling.
During college I continued to supplement my income by working as a framing carpenter in Wilmington, North Carolina. As I became involved with more projects I found I loved the experience of being outdoors and working with a team of great people to create homes that would be standing long after I was gone.
Because I love surfing and the warm weather I moved to Los Angeles in 1999. I received my contractors license in 2003 and created Hanley Built Construction.
Hanley Built Construction has been serving Los Angeles County for 12 years now. With projects that range from demo-foundation, framing, new construction, custom remodels, and everything in between. I would like to say that Hanley Built Construction is a professional business with a personal touch.
Has it been a smooth road?
No not by any means.
Shortly after the business started, I suffered a herniated disc that caused me to take a step back from working out in the field. After being told I would have to have spinal surgery, I decided to explore other options and found yoga, which I ended up loving so much I became a part time yoga teacher. As difficult as the time off was, it became an opportunity to understand how to manage a business and step into a leadership position. I understand how important it is to be surrounded by the right team, and that it is necessary for everything to come to fruition.
There are times when it can be frustrating figuring out how to be competitive as a licensed and insured contractor when you are working hard to compete against those who are cutting corners and not following protocol.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
We specialize in custom remodels and new construction. We have two facets to the company, one is general contracting, and the other is subcontracting for demo, foundation and framing work, with a specialty in framing.
I’m proud of every job we have done. I’m grateful Hanley Built has had the opportunity for such variety in its business. I think we have been lucky not to be pigeon-holed into one facet of construction.
I’ve remodeled yoga studios, and framed large custom hillside homes. The range of work we’ve been able to do is extensive and that’s something I’m excited about as a contractor.
I think what sets us apart from others is that I’m hands-on as the owner. I’m not an arm-chair contractor. I am on the job overseeing what is happening at each project and communicating with the client consistently.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I feel like there is a lot of opportunity in Los Angeles to do different and interesting projects. People in LA have a lot of style and taste and they like their homes to reflect that.
If someone is just starting out, however, LA is a tough place to do business. I think if you can work your way in, you can eventually make a good living.
There either needs to be a consistent enforcement of the regulations or a more cost-effective program, as far as workmen’s comp and employees/independent contractor’s classification so that everyone is playing on the same field.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4911 Ben Avenue
Valley Village, CA 91607 - Website: www.hanleybuilt.com
- Phone: 323 868 6927
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @hanleybuilt
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HanleyBuiltConstruction/
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