Find top rated major home repair pros (general contractors) in your area

A general contractor oversees a project from start to completion. They create the project’s timeline and schedule, hire, manage, and pay subcontractors and workers, and purchase and deliver building materials and supplies. They’ll also acquire necessary permits and HOA approvals, plan and execute necessary project changes, and make sure work meets quality standards.

Hiring an independent general contractor costs between 10% and 20% of your overall project cost, with larger projects incurring fees up to 25%. This fee covers complete project oversight, scheduling, and subcontractor management. The fee ranges from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, reflecting the full scope of the planned work and ensuring seamless coordination throughout the construction process.

General contractors typically provide estimates at no charge, but some may charge a small fee, especially for more complex projects. It's important to secure a written estimate, as it establishes a transparent agreement on project scope, labor, materials, and any additional fees. This helps protect you against unforeseen expenses and ensures clarity before the work begins.

When hiring a general contractor, you must provide an upfront deposit that ranges from 10% to 20% of your overall project cost. This deposit secures material orders, labor scheduling, and initial project preparations. An upfront deposit exceeding 50% is a clear warning sign and should prompt thorough contract verification before proceeding.