Top 10 General Contractors in Ann Arbor, MI

Porch Pro Headshot E.D.O.
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
Porch Pro Headshot EsserbuildersII
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(217)
"Professional, Prompt and Knowledgeable. They came out on a holiday, provided me with an excellent breakdown of my problem and gave me a reasonable price to solve it. Will certainly be turning to them in the future for all my roofing needs."
"Professional, Prompt and Knowledgeable. They came out on a holiday, provided me with an excellent breakdown of my problem and gave me a reasonable price to solve it. Will certainly be turning to them in the future for all my roofing needs."
Porch Pro Headshot The Cabinet Finishers
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(60)
Serving the Detroit Metro area since 1977, The Cabinet Finishers offers professional kitchen cabinet refinishing with quality you can trust. We can take your current kitchen cabinets and transform them into the look you've always wanted. Our service is a mere fraction of the cost of buying new cabi...Read more about The Cabinet Finishers
Serving the Detroit Metro area since 1977, The Cabinet Finishers offers professional kitchen cabinet refinishing with quality you can trust. We can take your current kitchen cabinets and transform them into the look you've always wanted. Our service is a mere fraction of the cost of buying new cabi...Read more about The Cabinet Finishers
Porch Pro Headshot Dave Korody & Associates
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(100)
At Dave Korody & Associates in Howell, Michigan, we are your residential contractor, builder, and land developer dedicated to helping you with your home improvement projects. From home additions to roofing services, we can repair, create, or improve the state of your home or work areas. Contact us ...Read more about Dave Korody & Associates
At Dave Korody & Associates in Howell, Michigan, we are your residential contractor, builder, and land developer dedicated to helping you with your home improvement projects. From home additions to roofing services, we can repair, create, or improve the state of your home or work areas. Contact us ...Read more about Dave Korody & Associates
Porch Pro Headshot Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(68)
For over fifty years, the more than three hundred and fifty Paul Davis locations have worked for millions of property owners across the US to recover from damage caused by water, fire, mold, storms and other disasters. Our reputation and heritage are built on the pillars of professionalism, expert...Read more about Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling
For over fifty years, the more than three hundred and fifty Paul Davis locations have worked for millions of property owners across the US to recover from damage caused by water, fire, mold, storms and other disasters. Our reputation and heritage are built on the pillars of professionalism, expert...Read more about Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling
Porch Pro Headshot Pachota Construction, LLC
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(70)
Whether you're considering a major renovation, addition or just minor home improvements, the expert remodeling contractors at Pachota Construction can help you save time and money without cutting corners. Since 1986 we've helped hundreds of homeowners in Southeast Michigan transform their homes int...Read more about Pachota Construction, LLC
Whether you're considering a major renovation, addition or just minor home improvements, the expert remodeling contractors at Pachota Construction can help you save time and money without cutting corners. Since 1986 we've helped hundreds of homeowners in Southeast Michigan transform their homes int...Read more about Pachota Construction, LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Kent Peterson Greenbuild Carpenter
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(2)
"Excellent! Mr Peterson and his staff worked carefully and diligently throughout my project. He is very knowledgeable about "green" building practices and was able to reuse and repurpose several materials for my project. He is very detail-oriented and trustworthy. I highly recommend him as a carpent...Read more about Kent Peterson Greenbuild Carpenter
"Excellent! Mr Peterson and his staff worked carefully and diligently throughout my project. He is very knowledgeable about "green" building practices and was able to reuse and repurpose several materials for my project. He is very detail-oriented and trustworthy. I highly recommend him as a carpent...Read more about Kent Peterson Greenbuild Carpenter
Porch Pro Headshot 21st Century Building Company
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(19)
21st Century Building Company has served the S.E. Michigan area since the year 2000, fully insured, and licensed by the State of Michigan. Our clients have asked us to produce projects ranging from design/build projects to house renovations, additions & "James Hardie" fiber-cement siding. We have ex...Read more about 21st Century Building Company
21st Century Building Company has served the S.E. Michigan area since the year 2000, fully insured, and licensed by the State of Michigan. Our clients have asked us to produce projects ranging from design/build projects to house renovations, additions & "James Hardie" fiber-cement siding. We have ex...Read more about 21st Century Building Company
Porch Pro Headshot Capilla Construction, LLC
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
Capilla Construction, LLC is committed to providing you with the best service possible. We approach every project with a focus on aesthetics, functionality, cost, and structural engineering. For over ten years, Capilla Construction, LLC has been working with customers to provide the exact design, b...Read more about Capilla Construction, LLC
Capilla Construction, LLC is committed to providing you with the best service possible. We approach every project with a focus on aesthetics, functionality, cost, and structural engineering. For over ten years, Capilla Construction, LLC has been working with customers to provide the exact design, b...Read more about Capilla Construction, LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Atex builders llc
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan

Frequently asked questions about general contractors

A general contractor oversees building and remodeling projects from start to finish. Their main priority is making sure that a project progresses according to the schedule, is on budget, and that all work is done properly. All other contractors and workers answer to the general contractor and they answer to the client who hired them.

Start by getting bids from different contractors. Bids lay out your expected cost and the extent of the project, including materials, labor, and when the project will be done. If you have a local contractor in mind, feel free to work with them in negotiating the terms of a bid, rather than putting out a competitive bid request. Terms typically outline payment installments, an expected timeline for milestones, and the expected outcome at each phase of the project.

Once you've signed the contract with the general contractor, they bring in the workers and begin on the project. Throughout the course of the project, the general contractor manages all workers and subcontractors. General contractors generally own or work for a company that handles one or two aspects of building and remodeling. Very few do framing, finishing, electrical, concrete, plumbing, and landscaping on their own. So, it's quite common for general contractors to outsource work from other companies. The general contractor handles the hiring of these subcontractors, as well as paying them and their own workers. You only have to worry about paying the general contractor.

Hiring multiple subcontractors for a job might seem more economical, but it would put much of the decision-making on you. What you might save in money may be offset by the amount of time and mental energy you'd have to put into the project. An experienced general contractor knows the ins and outs of the construction business. They understand how to structure a project and work with subcontractors to get projects completed safely, and on schedule. This leaves the day-to-day decisions to someone with more experience.

The licensing rules in some states require hiring a general contractor for certain projects. If the state doesn't require a general contractor in your case, it makes good sense to hire a licensed and insured local contractor.

General contractors live by their reputation. They work hard to build trust with their clients and honor that trust through their management of construction projects. Even if they never lift a hammer during the course of a job, they feel a great sense of ownership of the whole operation.

General contractors usually have a vast knowledge of local building codes. Their understanding of construction and people management helps all subcontractors to work together. They see how each piece fits together to make a completed project. Subcontractors may take a narrow view of their role, which could cause problems for other subcontractors working on the next step. General contractors work closely with their crews, subcontractors, and you to prevent costly miscommunication.

Whether you're hiring a home contractor to build your dream house or searching "general contractors in my area" to oversee a remodel project, you'll be working closely with whomever you choose.

When you get underway with your contractor, you'll begin by sorting out every possible detail. Before work begins, the contractor will work out a project plan with you. The project plan may include determining fixtures, finishes, and furnishings — to avoid any cost gaps in the initial bid. The more specific you are, the more realistic and accurate the bid will be.

Make sure it’s OK to call or text your contractor throughout the day. Even if they aren't always available, they should provide you with contact information for a lead person or someone else you can discuss the project with. When possible, visit the job site. This gives the contractor or lead the opportunity to bring up any issues and ask any questions about specifics that weren't covered in the project plan.

It's also helpful to keep a project journal. Write down product order numbers. Jot down questions and ideas, and note delivery dates. This can make it easier to sort out any disputes that may arise later. Track any changes to the initial project plan in writing. If unforeseen changes occur, make sure to get a bid change in writing.

Other helpful tips:

  • Check on work as it progresses
  • Pay only for completed work
  • Be a fair customer by paying bills on time, responding quickly to questions, and treating your contractor and their workers fairly
  • Know the workers’ names, and make sure they have what they need
  • Establishing a good working relationship with your contractor from the beginning will lead to a more successful project

Some general contractors charge a flat fee. Most charge a markup, which is a percentage of the overall completed project cost. The markup amount covers their overhead, including advertising, insurance, office expenses, and their own salary. The contractor should outline all payments and expenses in the contract at the outset.

Contractors typically ask for a percentage of the total project cost upfront. This initial fee covers the cost of getting the project started, provides workers with their wages for the first phase of the construction, and helps serve as a deposit for the needed materials and supplies. Fifteen percent is a fair and decent initial payment for getting a project started. Most states cap this initial fee at 33%, and a good contractor should have good enough credit to cover remaining up-front costs.

After each phase or "milestone" gets completed, your contract will likely require you to pay more money toward the project. These installments are an expected part of the construction process to cover wages, additional supplies, and materials the contractor may need to continue. Even the most well-off contractor would quickly run out of money to move forward if they didn't include installment payments into their contracts.

A big project is a costly endeavor and a long-term investment. When choosing a general contractor, it makes sense to look beyond just the contractor’s fee. Be sure to hire someone that can provide proof of licensing, insurance, and references. Take the time to look into their track record. A good general contractor will leave a trail of stellar online reviews, and when you talk to former clients, they'll have only good things to say. When you enter a project with a contractor, you need a pro you trust with your home, so it’s wise to do your homework ahead of time to ensure a successful outcome.

Begin with a plan that lays out the scope of the remodeling work you want done. By the time you hire a contractor, you should have decided on materials, fixtures, appliances, and other items. If you've decided on any changes to the floor plan, be sure to add the specifics to your plan. The more details, the better. Add everything you can think of, down to the brass pulls for the kitchen cupboards.

Once you have this plan, start talking to contractors to get estimates and formal bids. Ask around for local contractor recommendations at your local hardware store, or go online and read client reviews. Good contractors tend to be very busy, so expect a waiting period from the time you contact them to the time they can start on the project. Be sure to seek out a contractor with experience in the job you need done. If you need a patio installed, scroll past them if they specialize in kitchens and baths.

When speaking to the contractor, make sure you're clear on which parts of the project the contractor will handle and which will go to a subcontractor. Ask for proof of licensing, insurance, and any relevant subcontractors' licenses. Check contractor credentials with your local Better Business Bureau.

Only sign a detailed contract, and be sure you understand every detail of the contract before signing. Be sure to get the proper permits for your project. A good contractor will be able to talk you through getting permits. In some places, contractors are able to get the permits themselves. Check in with the contractor regularly during the course of the project to avoid errors and miscommunication.

Searching online for "good general contractors near me" or getting referrals from a hardware or home improvement store is a first step to hiring a contractor. Take certain precautions before hiring a contractor to prevent costly headaches later on.

Begin by working with a professional architect or designer who's able to provide all the information a contractor will need. A designer or architect can also create the necessary drawings to submit for obtaining a permit. Include details like finishes, fixtures, plumbing work, electrical installations, and possible millwork.

Come up with a specifications list in advance. Write down the details of every element you want placed into the project, from the front door to the floor tiles that you want. Calculate to make sure all your selections fall within your budget and meet your personal requirements.

Make sure your contractor has the proper licensing and insurance. Check out a potential contractor’s previous work. They should be able to offer examples. When you interview contractors, remember that you'll spend a lot of time working with this person. You need to feel you can trust them because unexpected situations are bound to come up. Perhaps you didn't consider what style of door handle you want for the master bathroom, or the carpet you selected for the living room is no longer available. These types of situations happen with any project, so do your best to remain patient throughout the construction process.

See to it that your contractor provides a timeline that they can stick to and that works with your needs. Get a list of subcontractors they use, and look into their history. Use careful consideration when choosing your contractor for the most successful outcome.

Be sure your general contractor is licensed and insured. They should have both contractor’s liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. An insured contractor will take responsibility for the project and for anything that happens at the worksite. Make sure their insurance covers any subcontractors or that they only work with insured third parties.

Ask for proof of insurance right away. Hiring an uninsured contractor may seem less expensive, but it could cost you down the road. In the event of a job-site injury or property damage, a properly insured contractor will shield you from potentially catastrophic costs. Depending on the state you live in, if a worker is injured on your property and their general contractor didn't carry the proper insurance, you might be liable for the cost of treating their injuries.

Homeowners’ insurance policies cover property damage. Some also cover limited injury liability, but these policies have limitations. Even in the unlikely event that your policy covers 100 percent of liability, your premiums would most certainly go up. Contractors insurance ensures that you don't have to cover any costs unrelated to the project completion itself.

If a contractor is reliable, they'll be licensed and carry insurance, and if they don't have a license, no company will insure them. Proof of proper licensing and insurance is a sure sign of a reliable contractor.

Recent reviews for Ann Arbor General Contractors

413767

The crew was great on time and very professional. Price was In our budget and worth every penny..love it

- William Norton
101879

I contacted Esser Builders II because my roof was getting pretty old, and started to leak. Al was out the next day to check out the job. Their price was fair, and i ended up just getting an entire new roof. The crew was their own time the next day, and wh...

- Jeffrey Evans
100072

I recently had a leak in my home and I chose Esserbuildersll to do the repair. They were great people that did a great job in a timely manner. They charged a reasonable rate and cleaned up when they were finished. I would highly recommend Esserbuildersll ...

- Michael Montry
166932

5 minutes ago- I would give them zero starts if I could. Horrible company. They were hired to replace my sub floor and install laminate flooring. Before my floor had one spot that was un-level. Now the whole floor is not level. Portions have NO sub floor!...

- Linda Loreen
112208

EssureBuildersII did a fantastic job on my mom's roof. Al explained everything very well, got us on the schedule quickly and was right on target with the estimate. We're looking forward to using EssureBuildersII for a number of our upcoming home improveme...

- Michelle Padley
102489

I cannot say enough great things about Al's work. I thought I was going to be in a bind when a different company became non-responsive however through Thumbtack I found Al and his company and he was very easy to work with. He met me at the job site to tak...

- Jeff Bazzi
96854

Esser builders was great.. they where very polite and courteous. We had them remodel our basement. Their managment team did an awesome job helping us with the design and layout. they worked with our schedule, and finnished before the deadline. I will reco...

- Dale Allen
97894

Had a roof installed by Esser Builders II last summer, very professional, punctual, nice experience, I would hire them again

- Jill Jones
100776

I needed all the roof flashing repaired on the house as well as have the chimney knocked down. Albert Esser II responded to my request right away and spent a good half hour on the phone talking with me about the project. He stopped by soon after and had t...

- Maria Cancro
98397

I hired Al and his hardworking crew for a roof replacement job. I highly recommend Al with his great quality service.

- Angel Salas
100071

I recently had a leak in my home and I chose Esserbuildersll to do the repair. They were great people that did a great job in a timely manner. They charged a reasonable rate and cleaned up when they finished. I would highly recommend Esserbuildersll for y...

- Michael Montry
72774

Brice was very helpful in taking the time to explain what the project would take and how much it would cost so there were no surprises. Great communication and work done on time at a very reasonable price!

- Mike Bocik

Everything You Need to Know About Ann Arbor General Contractors

I’m searching for General Contractors servicing my zip code in Ann Arbor.

Many general contractors provide service to multiple zip codes in and around Ann Arbor. Browse through a sample of the General Contractors in Ann Arbor below to find the right professional in your area for your project. Remember to contact each of these professionals individually to ask about their prices, recent successful general contractor services jobs, how they bill, and what licenses or permits they have or will have to get for your job:

  • J.D. Builders:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 48326
  • Clear Water Construction Services:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 48105 and 48125
  • Cardea Constrution.com:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 48189 and 48111

If you weren't able to find the right general contractor company that services your Ann Arbor zip code, don't worry. Try contacting the company directly to ask them what surrounding areas they also service near Ann Arbor.

Will General Contractor Services work in Ann Arbor require permits, inspections, special licenses, etc.?

Whether you’re general contractor job is in Ann Arbor or any other city, you're going to want to do a bit of research before hiring general contractors. Even small jobs may have certain regulations around them. Often, the general contractor performing the work will have any required permits, inspections, etc. under control, but not always. Short answer: Research yourself and double check with the general contractor services folks that everything is in order.

What should I check for once my General Contractor in Ann Arbor has finished working?

Every general contractor services project is going to have different results, but here are a few things to check for once any general contractor services company has told you they've finished the job:

  • Obviously you want to do a visual inspection. Even if you're unfamiliar with general contractor services work, this gives you the opportunity to ask questions (even basic ones like, what did you do?).
  • Ask the general contractor to describe what they did. Whether your general contractor services project was a repair job or a building job, have them run you through what was done.
  • Compare the description provided on your general contractor services project estimate to the work completed. Did the professional do what was promised?
  • Request that the general contractor do a follow-up visit to check on the work. Most professionals are willing to do this, especially if you ask them.

All General Contractors in Ann Arbor, MI

Porch Pro Headshot Greenbow Contracting Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(1)
We are your one stop shop for all of your Residential/Commercial needs. We take your vision and turn it into reality with our high quality of work, professional service, and affordable prices. Greenbow Contracting Inc. always uses the highest quality products, installed by professional to the speci...Read more about Greenbow Contracting Inc.
We are your one stop shop for all of your Residential/Commercial needs. We take your vision and turn it into reality with our high quality of work, professional service, and affordable prices. Greenbow Contracting Inc. always uses the highest quality products, installed by professional to the speci...Read more about Greenbow Contracting Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Handy Hometown Services
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
We started as a handyman company but have grown to a full remodeling and handyman company. We are
We started as a handyman company but have grown to a full remodeling and handyman company. We are
Porch Pro Headshot Storm King Construction
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
Storm King Construction is a professional Storm Door Installation Company Founded in 2008. We pride ourself on our ability to provide Quality Workmanship, a Professional Standard, and Affordable Prices. "We Will Never Fail Your Home Care Mission", Major Labor of Storm King Construction. We perform...Read more about Storm King Construction
Storm King Construction is a professional Storm Door Installation Company Founded in 2008. We pride ourself on our ability to provide Quality Workmanship, a Professional Standard, and Affordable Prices. "We Will Never Fail Your Home Care Mission", Major Labor of Storm King Construction. We perform...Read more about Storm King Construction
Porch Pro Headshot BN Construction
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
At BN Construction, our goal is to not only help you build or renovate your dream home, but to make the process easy and enjoyable for you. We are a full-service building/renovation/management company with a wide range of experience. We can help you with all phases of new home construction, remodeli...Read more about BN Construction
At BN Construction, our goal is to not only help you build or renovate your dream home, but to make the process easy and enjoyable for you. We are a full-service building/renovation/management company with a wide range of experience. We can help you with all phases of new home construction, remodeli...Read more about BN Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Cardea Constrution.com
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
Cardea Construction brings a woman-owned perspective to our remodeling experience. with each client we individually plan the look and sensation you are after. We take pride in our craftsmanship, in finishing within your budget and in finishing within a predetermined schedule. We offer more than 3...Read more about Cardea Constrution.com
Cardea Construction brings a woman-owned perspective to our remodeling experience. with each client we individually plan the look and sensation you are after. We take pride in our craftsmanship, in finishing within your budget and in finishing within a predetermined schedule. We offer more than 3...Read more about Cardea Constrution.com
Porch Pro Headshot Brian Family Construction LLC
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(8)
Brian Family Construction Specializes in Home Remodeling, Handyman Services, And Finish Carpentry
Brian Family Construction Specializes in Home Remodeling, Handyman Services, And Finish Carpentry
Porch Pro Headshot Ann Arbor Asphalt & Concrete Paving
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(30)
Porch Pro Headshot Vinewood Custom Builders Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
Porch Pro Headshot Ann Arbor Restoration Pros
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
We specialize in 34 hour emergency mitigation, water damage and property restoration services. If you have water damage from a flooded basement, or a pipe that burst and damaged your ceilings, we can help. We are also licensed and experienced at repairing mold in your walls, and cleaning up ash and ...Read more about Ann Arbor Restoration Pros
We specialize in 34 hour emergency mitigation, water damage and property restoration services. If you have water damage from a flooded basement, or a pipe that burst and damaged your ceilings, we can help. We are also licensed and experienced at repairing mold in your walls, and cleaning up ash and ...Read more about Ann Arbor Restoration Pros
Porch Pro Headshot Italy American Construction Company
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
Italy American Construction Company has been serving the Metro Detroit area for 61 years
Italy American Construction Company has been serving the Metro Detroit area for 61 years
Porch Pro Headshot DUNCAN RENOVATIONS
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
(1)
Duncan Renovations is a general contractor located in Inkster. They offer design build services, foundation repair and other services.
Duncan Renovations is a general contractor located in Inkster. They offer design build services, foundation repair and other services.
Porch Pro Headshot Villabella Contracting, LLC
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
Licensed and Insured Residential Builder since June 2011 serving the metro Detroit area. Specializing in residential contracting, we focus on kitchen and bathroom remodeling. We also accommodate many other needs such as new construction, finished basements, additions, garages and wood/composite dec...Read more about Villabella Contracting, LLC
Licensed and Insured Residential Builder since June 2011 serving the metro Detroit area. Specializing in residential contracting, we focus on kitchen and bathroom remodeling. We also accommodate many other needs such as new construction, finished basements, additions, garages and wood/composite dec...Read more about Villabella Contracting, LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Pellerito & Sons Construction
General Contractors
Serves Ann Arbor, Michigan
General Contractor/Builder/Carpenter with 30yrs experience creating and building peoples dreams.
General Contractor/Builder/Carpenter with 30yrs experience creating and building peoples dreams.

Latest projects near Ann Arbor

Recent projects booked on Porch
Ypsilanti 48197
Residential Building
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Residential building project type
Need an access panel to attic
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