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 Fort Worth general contractors
Recent success stories from people in the Fort Worth area.
AJIBOLA O.
Professional job and excellent attitude
Global Construction Industries
Robert B.
Personable, did a good job on the initial hire to install a medicine cabinet. Gave me a quote and stuck to it
DAVID You're handyman technician
K M.
They were available within a few days to complete our job, and very affordable. The crew was professional and hardworking, as well as polite. They installed our flooring in two rooms in one day, and did a great job!
USA Choice Remodeling And Outdoor Living
Sunil S.
will hire again to install a doorbell
Justice Contractor Service, LLC
Donna P.
Jeremi and his team did a fantastic job fixing/remodeling my bathroom. Tile work is beautiful. And no more worries about water damage as he replaced 2x4's and flooring under the tub. They went above & beyond cleaning up after their work. Will be calling them again for future work on my house.
Kuttting Edge Renovation and Repair
Jared M.
Arthur showed up when he said he would. He did a great job of explaining everything from start to finish. I would definitely use King Plumbing again in the future. I would absolutely recommend King Plumbing to others.
King Plumbing
Moise E.
Great work, professionally handled all the tasks and the area was all clean. Thank you
Moise.
Gamez Drywall Const & Repair
Tracy
Ulises and his team did a awesome job to my bathroom remodel. Would highly reccomend them !
Olveras painting & remodeling
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Nearby general contractors in and around Fort Worth