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 Moorpark general contractors
Recent success stories from people in the Moorpark area.
Nancy W.
Fabulous Bathroom remodel. They were on time. Very clean and professional. Thank You. I approve of every aspect of the work completed.
Big Boy Construction
Natalie N.
Great job remodeling! He did my condo which had a leak and resulted in a whole new make over. We got new floors, cabinets, quartz marble counter tops, interior paint job, new lighting throughout the house. We were very pleased to use this companies services and will be using them again for our next future home!
Smart Construction Consultants
Henry D.
We had a stellar experience with AGA construction. They were quick, provided great service, and the quality of the work and finishes is very professional, sturdy, and straight.
They gave us a 3d layout of our bathroom and our kitchen. This made it very easy to visualize and decide exactly which way we wanted to go.
AGA has great design ideas and suggestions. Furthermore, they have great vendors and got us some great pricing.
We will continue to use AGA construction and we highly recommend them!
AGA Construction Inc
Kelly E.
guy's team is fantastic! guy was very fair and communicative. he did a nice job handling all of the difficulties that come with contracting a residential renovation. i certainly hope to work with guy and co again.
note: i will require them to budget an onsite supervisor in the future, to minimize the type of errors that happen on every project, but can be minimized and immediately remedied with consistent supervision.
GH Builders / Constructionowl.com
Jamie S.
I cannot say enough good things about this company - they exceeded my expectations in every way possible! Firstly, the price was incredibly reasonable, especially considering the high quality of work that was done. Communication was also top-notch. But perhaps what impressed me the most was their work ethic. The crew arrived early and worked tirelessly throughout the day to get the job done. They were respectful of my property, leaving everything clean and tidy at the end of each day. And the end result? My roof looks absolutely fantastic! The repairs are solid, and I feel confident that my home is now better protected from future storms. Five stars all around!
Home Remodeling Los Angeles
How HomeGuide works
Search
Search, get cost estimates, contact pros, and book—all for free.
Compare
View profiles, read reviews, check qualifications, and see prices before hiring.
Hire
Ask questions, confirm their availability, and hire the right pro when you're ready.