Who to Hire for Home Renovations: Book the Best Pro for the Job

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

When deciding who to hire for a home renovation, align your project scope with the right expert. A licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor manages schedules, materials, permits, and code. Architects handle planning and blueprints for major remodels, while licensed specialty contractors handle electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.

Check local licensing, bonding, and insurance requirements. Get multiple bids and references, review portfolios, clarify timelines and costs in writing, and avoid large upfront payments or unresponsive pros.

Benefits of Hiring a General Contractor for a Home Renovation

For most renovations, hiring a general contractor streamlines the project and centralizes accountability. These pros coordinate multiple trades, source materials, and manage timelines while navigating permits and codes. In most states, they are licensed, bonded, and insured, which protects you and confirms competency. When structural work or permits are involved, a local remodeling contractor ensures the build meets code.

Here are some of the top benefits of hiring a general contractor:

• Oversees the entire renovation from start to finish

• Coordinates electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, and other trades

• Builds and maintains a realistic project schedule

• Orders, receives, and organizes materials and deliveries

• Handles permits and inspection scheduling with your municipality

• Monitors workmanship to meet local building codes

• Carries licensing, bonding, and insurance for protection

• Engages structural specialists when a project requires it

• Serves as your single point of contact throughout

If your renovation involves coordinating multiple trades or complex project management, consider a general contractor near you to ensure the job is done efficiently and up to code.

Can I Hire an Architect for a Home Renovation?

Architects design and plan renovations; they are not construction managers. For major remodels or structural changes, a licensed architect creates blueprints and verifies compliance with building codes. 

If your scope is smaller and you are confident with design decisions, you can skip hiring an architect. For large-scale projects, their planning expertise reduces risk and clarifies the vision, while a general contractor executes the build.

How Do Pros Handle a Home Renovation?

Pros align the scope with the right expertise, manage logistics, and maintain code compliance from planning through final inspection. Here’s a look at their process:

• Confirm whether the project involves structural changes or permits

• Hire a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor to oversee the renovation

• For major overhauls, engage a licensed architect to create blueprints and ensure code compliance

• The general contractor manages schedules and sources materials

• The general contractor coordinates licensed electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians for specialized work

• The contractor navigates permitting processes and ensures work meets local codes

• Maintain clear communication and review progress against the agreed timeline and contract

How Much Does a Home Renovation Cost?

The average cost of a home renovation is $52,225, with most projects ranging from $19,485 to $88,360. Your total costs depend on the size of your home, the structural changes, and the quality of appliances and materials you choose. Simple renovations start at $3,000, while extensive changes can push your costs up to $190,000.