Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on HomeGuide.
How much do local general contractors charge?
General contractors charge10% to 20% of the total construction cost, known as "cost-plus." Some building contractors charge a flat fee based on the project but rarely charge an hourly rate. Home improvement contractors pay on your behalf for all materials, subcontractors, services, and permits.
What does a residential general contractor do?
Licensed general contractors manage and coordinate the entire building process. A general contractor estimates the job, provides the materials and tools, and hires specialized subcontractors for the construction work. Remodeling contractors can perform electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, or build a house
Why use a general building contractor?
A general contractor saves you time, resolves any problems, and ensures the construction follows code requirements. General contractors have a network of experienced, licensed, and insured subcontractors to properly build any project. Home contractors also source all the materials, tools, and permits and pay for them on your behalf.
Common projects to hire a licensed general contractor are home, bathroom, kitchen, and basement remodeling.
Get at least three estimates from building contractors to compare.
Ask for references and to see a portfolio of their past work.
Verify their insurance, worker’s compensation, and bond guarantees.
Call references, read their reviews, and check out their previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
Ask about their warranties and guarantees.
Ask for a full itemized contract in writing in case of a dispute.
Avoid making large payments upfront. Come up with a payment schedule for work completed.
What questions to ask a general contractor before hiring?
Ask these questions upfront before hiring:
How long have you been a general contractor?
How many similar projects have you built?
Can you provide me with a list of references?
Can I see your portfolio?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Have there been any lawsuits against your company?
How do you handle damages that happen on the job?
Who's the project manager?
What qualities do you look for in subcontractors?
What hours do you and your crew work?
How long will the project take?
What permits do I need, and will you obtain them?
What does your warranty policy include?
Can you provide me a written estimate or contract with a breakdown of all costs?
What is the structure of the payment agreements?
Do you offer in-house financing?
What do I need to provide to get started?
Do general contractors need insurance?
A general contractor assumes responsibility for the project and should be licensed and insured. Ask for a potential contractor's license number and proof of insurance before hiring. Ask your local building department for licensing requirements, then verify the licensing on the state's licensing board website.
Reviews for San Francisco general contractors
Recent success stories from people in the San Francisco area.
Juan O.
Very professional. Replaced the water heater in no time. Very clean work
Innovation Plumbing and Rooter dba HBR CONSTRUCTION
Neda A.
He worked so fast, delivered the job on-time with reasonable price
Pars Home Improvment
Michelle B.
One of the best from the local community. I’m really impressed how convenient and reliable Golden Eagle Construction. I will continue to use and I really recommend. They can take care of all of your household problems.
Is an excellent company, good prices, very professional, trust worthy! You’ll pay for what you want to get.
Thank you J. Mendoza for all the help!
Golden Eagle Constuccion
Jonathan K.
Man where do I even start? Found this company through yelp and after talking to Brandon he was super helpful and really nice compared to other contractors I have came in-contact with. Pricing was great and I didn’t once feel like he was getting over on me. I will use American Grade Construction for all of my other projects in the future and will recommend it to everyone!
American Grade Construction
Riana A.
While I have to call around or text to get a quote, Walter called me, and offer me a good deal. He came before the scheduled time, very nice, honest, and patient. He knows exactly what to do, and patiently explained what is the problem, and we really appreciate it. Great service, and we definitely will use his service on our next projects.
WaltersplumbingW.A
Christina Marie B.
Amazing clean team! Home feels Really great. Would hire her again and again. Thanks Amanda J. !
Amanda j
Jane G.
His company was able to do a pretty major construction job at my house in a very timely manner. They were professional and honest and very nice to work with. They did a beautiful job on my house which included new windows, doors, painting, roof work, retexturing walls and plumbing/ electrical work. They really can do it all
URBAN COWBOY CONSTRUCTION&PLUMBING
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Nearby general contractors in and around San Francisco