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 Lee general contractors
Recent success stories from people in the Fort Lee area.
Maged I.
This is the second job that Javier and his crew completed for me. The first was a major basement renovation which a full bathroom addition. The second was a remodel of our upstairs bedrooms'. Javier and his team did a great job skim coating our lathe and plaster walls which had many imperfections which have practically disappeared after their skilled work. They also installed a new ceiling, recessed lighting, and vinyl plank flooring. Overall, we are very pleased with the work they did and for always being professional.
Gmatt Builder Developer Llc
Andriu C.
I recommend Albert Construction an excellent company and an excellent person very punctual and very professional
ALBERT CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LLC
Crystal
Justin built a deck for us in North Springfield, NJ. It went great. The price was great, he was very responsive and worked very quickly. He really went above and beyond.
Avishay Contractors
Stephanie G.
Siempre son puntual en la entrega de trabajo, con un personal con amplia experiencia en todo tipo de trabajos, tienen un excelente servicio
Redwood Renovation
Flor S.
I have used JOHN for many years now, He shows up he’s meticulous detail oriented. I do not need to be on top of any project that I gave him., And always leaves everything back in order and clean. I highly recommend him
Gurbetci construction
Annmarie M.
He was easy to talk to, accommodated everything I wanted and got the job done quickly and affordably.
Swallow's contracting
Crystal A.
I didn't expect same day service. He did great job.
SRVLANDSCAPING CONSTRUCTION & Design llc
ROSA
Because is fast, good job and Very clean and honest.
G & Bloise Remodeling
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