Grimes Iowa
Construction & Remodeling
Your One Call Solution for Home Building and Remodeling in Grimes, Iowa
Grimes, Iowa General Contractor
About Us
Established in 2020, Busy Builders has served more than 1,285 Central Iowa homeowners. We bring decades of combined trade experience to projects in Grimes and throughout the Des Moines metro. As Iowa-registered contractors, we understand the building codes, permit processes, and construction challenges specific to rapidly growing communities. From updating newer homes to renovating established properties, we deliver quality work with transparent communication.
Our Mission
Provide the most transparent and honest experience possible for any construction project. We provide detailed written estimates, explain permit requirements upfront, and maintain clear communication throughout your project.
Our Vision
To serve all of Central Iowa with dedicated construction services, building lasting relationships through quality workmanship and integrity.
Full-Service Construction And Remodeling in Grimes
New home construction in Grimes, IA. This rapidly growing community spans Polk and Dallas counties with approximately 15,392 residents (2020 census) and estimated 17,266 in 2025. Founded in 1881 and incorporated May 7, 1894, Grimes was named for Iowa’s third governor and former U.S. Senator James W. Grimes. Located just 11 miles northwest of Des Moines at the metro’s northwestern gateway, Grimes has grown 219% since 2000. We build custom homes meeting the 2015 International Residential Code with local amendments, designed for Iowa’s 42-inch frost line and energy efficiency requirements.
Complete home remodeling in Grimes, IA. While over 53% of housing units were built after 2000, the city retains older neighborhoods requiring thoughtful renovation. Newer homes often need updates to aging HVAC systems, flooring, and finishes while meeting current energy codes. We work with Grimes’ Building Division to ensure all permits are properly secured and inspections are scheduled through the Development Services Department at (515) 986-4050.
Kitchen remodeling in Grimes, IA transforms both newer tract homes and older properties. Many homes built 2000-2010 feature builder-grade finishes that homeowners now wish to upgrade with custom cabinetry, stone countertops, and premium appliances. Kitchen remodels require building permits through the City of Grimes. We coordinate all electrical, plumbing, and mechanical sub-permits required under city code. Grimes uses IBC 2018, IMC 2018, UPC 2018, and NEC 2020 for commercial and residential construction.
Basement remodeling in Grimes, IA expands living space in a community where home prices have risen significantly. Polk and Dallas counties fall within EPA Radon Zone 1 with predicted indoor screening levels above 4 pCi/L. We recommend radon testing before any basement work, with mitigation systems installed during construction when needed. The City of Grimes requires permits for basement finishing projects, with applications submitted to the Development Services Department at 410 SE Main Street, Suite 102.
Bathroom remodeling in Grimes, IA addresses infrastructure and design needs across the city’s diverse housing stock. Proper ventilation (50 CFM minimum per IRC standards) prevents moisture damage common in Iowa’s humid summers. Homes built during Grimes’ rapid expansion sometimes have quality issues that become apparent 15-20 years later. We assess plumbing systems, ventilation, and structural conditions before beginning work. All bathroom remodels require permits and inspections through the city.
Home additions in Grimes, IA require permits through the Development Services Department. Applications must include scaled site plans, construction drawings, and setback measurements. Current City Hall is at 101 NE Harvey Street, Grimes, IA 50111, phone (515) 986-3036. A new Public Administration Building is planned for 2026-2027 at the corner of James Street and Highway 44 in Waterworks Park. We coordinate all permits, inspections, and code compliance for additions throughout Grimes.
Basement finishing in Grimes, IA converts unused square footage into valuable living space. Per IRC requirements, basement bedrooms must have egress windows with minimum 5.7 square feet of opening. The City of Grimes addition and basement finish permit applications require detailed drawings showing egress window locations, doors, and carbon monoxide/smoke detector placement. Permits expire if work isn’t started within 6 months or if no inspection is scheduled for 6 months. We ensure finished basements meet all codes.
Deck building in Grimes, IA enhances outdoor living in this family-friendly community. The city features numerous parks including Water Works Park (with splash pad), South Sports Complex, North Sports Complex, Autumn Park, Beaverbrooke Park, and Heritage Park. Decks require permits from the Development Services Department. Iowa’s freeze-thaw cycles require proper footing depth (42 inches minimum) and appropriate materials rated for our climate. We design and build decks that extend your living space while meeting all code requirements.
Building in Grimes and the Northwest Metro
Grimes has grown to roughly 15,392 residents and shows no sign of slowing. City permits go through 515-986-3036.
Grimes is one of the fastest-growing cities in Iowa, and that single fact defines the work. The housing here is young, so we are almost never rescuing a century home. We are finishing basements builders left as bare block, adding the bedroom or the sunroom a value-engineered plan skipped. Replacing the first generation of decks now aging out.
Growth also brings covenants and tight lot lines. In a newer Grimes subdivision the association rules and setbacks often govern an addition more tightly than the building code does. We confirm both before drawing.
New construction is not exempt from radon. Iowa reads among the highest in the country and a recent build is not automatically low, so we test before finishing below grade.
Footings still need 42 inches of depth to sit under the frost line.
We build across the northwest metro. Homeowners in Johnston, Urbandale, Waukee, and Polk City call us for the same work.
Finishing a basement in Grimes? Call: 844-435-9800 for a written estimate.
Permit rules and fees change. Confirm current requirements with the City of Grimes before you commit to a budget or a timeline.
Our Building Partners.
- Achievement
Your Dream, Our Passion.
Since 2020, more than 1,285 Central Iowa homeowners have trusted us with their projects, and it shows.
Quality Construction at the Right Price.
Additions
Based on Average Pricing in Grimes.
- Additional Story
- Tornado Shelter
- Living Room
- Bedroom
- Sunroom
- Bathroom
- Garage
- ADU
Kitchen Remodeling
Based on Average Pricing in Grimes.
- Countertops
- Appliances
- Cabinetry
- Windows
- Islands
- Lights
Home Building
Based on Average Pricing in Grimes.
- Dream Build
- Multi-Family
- Tiny Home
- Spec Build
- Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Home Construction & Remodeling in Grimes, IA
How do building permits work in Grimes?
The City of Grimes Development Services Department handles building permits at 410 SE Main Street, Suite 102, Grimes, IA 50111.
Contact (515) 986-4050 for information.
Permits are required for new buildings, additions, alterations, basement finishing, decks, sheds, egress windows, pools, hot tubs, and solar panels.
Applications can be submitted online or in person.
We handle all permit coordination for our clients.
Which school districts serve Grimes?
Most of Grimes is served by the Dallas Center-Grimes Community School District (DCG), home of the Mustangs (red and white colors).
The district headquarters is in Grimes, with four elementary schools (Dallas Center Elementary, South Prairie, North Ridge, and Heritage), middle schools, and DCG High School (grades 9-12) in Grimes.
The eastern portion of Grimes along Highway 141 is served by Johnston Community School District.
What codes does Grimes use for construction?
The City of Grimes uses IBC 2018, IFC 2018, IMC 2018, UPC 2018, and NEC 2020 for construction.
For questions on code requirements, contact Building Official Steve Tibbles through the Development Services Department at (515) 986-4050.
Effective November 26, 2021, the 2015 International Codes with local amendments are enforced for building permits.
How far is Grimes from Des Moines?
Grimes is approximately 11 miles northwest of downtown Des Moines (about 15-20 minutes via I-35/80 and Highway 141).
Johnston is 4.5 miles east, Dallas Center is 9 miles west, Urbandale is 3 miles southeast, and Waukee is 6.5 miles southwest.
Busy Builders serves Grimes from our West Des Moines base, typically within 20 minutes.
What makes Grimes unique for homeowners?
Grimes is one of Iowa’s fastest-growing cities, ranking among the top 4% nationally for growth since 2000.
The city balances rapid development with community investment, having spent $17.2 million since 2020 on improving aging roads.
Major employers include Corteva (formerly Pioneer Hi-Bred) with over 2,000 employees nearby.
The Hope District and Hy-Vee Multiplex attract 3.6 million visits annually.
The city’s motto is “Your hometown. Your lifestyle.”
What recreational amenities does Grimes offer?
Grimes features extensive parks, including Water Works Park with the metro’s best-rated splash pad (over 87,650 visitors in its first two years), South and North Sports Complexes, Autumn Park, Beaverbrooke Park, Heritage Park, and Lions Park.
All parks are smoke, tobacco, and alcohol-free with hours from 5:30am-10:00pm.
The city connects to the greater Des Moines trail system, and residents can access urban amenities within minutes.
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