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 Tampa general contractors
Recent success stories from people in the Tampa area.
Isabelle M.
Excellent communication and understanding of my ideas therefore good execution of the projects, good advices and work finished on time. They remodeled my bathrooms and painted my living room and all my guests compliment the update. I recommend GcGc Biz.
GcGc Biz LLC - CBC1265499
GcGc Biz LLC - CBC1265499
Roberto Martinez J.
Dave’s innovative way of hanging the shelves.
Central Florida Restoration and Design
Central Florida Restoration and Design
Armas W.
Great experience working with Aces Pro LLC/PoloProInstall I love using all the different tools for jobs and making sure everything is good quality work so the customer will be more than satisfied
Aces Pro LLC/PoloProInstall
Aces Pro LLC/PoloProInstall
Susan
Wendy was able to translate my vision into reality even though I have a difficult time visualizing. She was a pleasure to work with.
Noco Design Studio
Noco Design Studio
Daniela A.
They were great, very time efficient and got the job done very quickly. Also the price was very friendly. I would definitely hire them again and would recommend them anytime.
Viking Plumbing
Viking Plumbing
Susan W.
It was a great experience from beginning to end! They did a super job helping us pick cabinet doors and even went above and beyond when I changed my mind about the color of the cabinets. Overall it’s a very quick process with amazing results. We had use of the kitchen throughout. They exceed my expectations and they strived to ensure we were happy. I would recommend them to anyone needing a new kitchen.
Shoreline Kitchens
Shoreline Kitchens
Cory M.
Awesome job done by Manny and his crew. very friendly day fast and the job was the best price around. will be doing more projects with Manny and crew very soon. HIGHLY recommended.
Many structures inc
Many structures inc
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