Top 10 General Contractors in Chester, PA

Porch Pro Headshot Basement Waterproofing Nationwide
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(83)
Basement Waterproofing Nationwide is a locally-owned and family run business, specializing in making wet basements dry and safe in the surrounding Maryland area. We waterproof basements, repair cracks, bowed walls, reinforcing walls and much more. BWN is not a dealership or franchise limited to cert...Read more about Basement Waterproofing Nationwide
Basement Waterproofing Nationwide is a locally-owned and family run business, specializing in making wet basements dry and safe in the surrounding Maryland area. We waterproof basements, repair cracks, bowed walls, reinforcing walls and much more. BWN is not a dealership or franchise limited to cert...Read more about Basement Waterproofing Nationwide
Porch Pro Headshot Tri-State Creations
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(141)
Tri-State Creations in West Ocean City, MD has a 5-star rating from past clients, making them one of the best window replacement companies around.
Tri-State Creations in West Ocean City, MD has a 5-star rating from past clients, making them one of the best window replacement companies around.
Porch Pro Headshot Avantgarde Home Improvements
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(52)
Are you looking to make improvements around your home, but just can't find the time to do everything yourself? As one of the top home improvement companies in Pensylvania and Philadelphia, Avantgarde Home Improvements prides itself on its unsurpassed service, professionalism, and technical skill lev...Read more about Avantgarde Home Improvements
Are you looking to make improvements around your home, but just can't find the time to do everything yourself? As one of the top home improvement companies in Pensylvania and Philadelphia, Avantgarde Home Improvements prides itself on its unsurpassed service, professionalism, and technical skill lev...Read more about Avantgarde Home Improvements
Porch Pro Headshot Drytech Restoration Services
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(50)
"I have had to use the clean up services provided by Drytech Restoration Services 3 different times in the past 3 years and have been so happy with the service they provide. Water damage to a house is super stressful, so when Anthony and Lou showed up and handled the drying and dehumidifying of my f...Read more about Drytech Restoration Services
"I have had to use the clean up services provided by Drytech Restoration Services 3 different times in the past 3 years and have been so happy with the service they provide. Water damage to a house is super stressful, so when Anthony and Lou showed up and handled the drying and dehumidifying of my f...Read more about Drytech Restoration Services
Porch Pro Headshot RJ Maillie Jr LLC
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(9)
"Rob remodeled our kitchen and bathroom in 2011 with excellent results. In 2012, he renovated a 1500 sf ft area on the lower level of our home. He provided numerous and valuable recommendations and kept us fully informed as the project proceeded. The finished product exceeded our high expectations. ...Read more about RJ Maillie Jr LLC
"Rob remodeled our kitchen and bathroom in 2011 with excellent results. In 2012, he renovated a 1500 sf ft area on the lower level of our home. He provided numerous and valuable recommendations and kept us fully informed as the project proceeded. The finished product exceeded our high expectations. ...Read more about RJ Maillie Jr LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Enhance home improvements Kitchens & Refacing
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(5)
Enhance Home Improvements has over 25 years remodeling experience, We work hand and hand with several designers, investors and homeowners that are in need of our services. We install only the items you choose so you know exactly what your getting! We offer honest estimates, and we do the job right! ...Read more about Enhance home improvements Kitchens & Refacing
Enhance Home Improvements has over 25 years remodeling experience, We work hand and hand with several designers, investors and homeowners that are in need of our services. We install only the items you choose so you know exactly what your getting! We offer honest estimates, and we do the job right! ...Read more about Enhance home improvements Kitchens & Refacing
Porch Pro Headshot Joe West, Concrete and General Contracting
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(8)
With over 20 years of experience, we are able to provide you with true professionalism and quality work at honest prices. Using fully insured subcontractors, we can provide everything from concrete to stucco, doors and windows, basements to roofs and everything in between. Our business has highly qu...Read more about Joe West, Concrete and General Contracting
With over 20 years of experience, we are able to provide you with true professionalism and quality work at honest prices. Using fully insured subcontractors, we can provide everything from concrete to stucco, doors and windows, basements to roofs and everything in between. Our business has highly qu...Read more about Joe West, Concrete and General Contracting
Porch Pro Headshot Pa Basement
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(3)
"A huge THANK YOU to PA Basement of Harrisburg, PA. You don't know what this meant to me for your quick service on March 4, 2016. Your speedy service of preventing us from having a flooded basement is greatly appreciated. Your guys were very friendly and on time! I would highly recommend this co...Read more about Pa Basement
"A huge THANK YOU to PA Basement of Harrisburg, PA. You don't know what this meant to me for your quick service on March 4, 2016. Your speedy service of preventing us from having a flooded basement is greatly appreciated. Your guys were very friendly and on time! I would highly recommend this co...Read more about Pa Basement
Porch Pro Headshot All in one Property Maintenance
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(2)
All in one Property Maintenance is here for you with skilled professional staff and quality service. We provide free and fair estimates with satisfactory work. Contact us today and let us be the source of your new project. Veteran Owned & Operated Licensed & Insured
All in one Property Maintenance is here for you with skilled professional staff and quality service. We provide free and fair estimates with satisfactory work. Contact us today and let us be the source of your new project. Veteran Owned & Operated Licensed & Insured
Porch Pro Headshot Bryant Phillips Construction Inc
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(14)
Bryant Phillips Construction , based out of Devon, is an Award Winning General Contractor that specializes in the renovation and restoration of Older Residences in The Greater Delaware Valley. We can help with any of your remodeling needs from plaster and paint repairs, kitchen and bath remodeling...Read more about Bryant Phillips Construction Inc
Bryant Phillips Construction , based out of Devon, is an Award Winning General Contractor that specializes in the renovation and restoration of Older Residences in The Greater Delaware Valley. We can help with any of your remodeling needs from plaster and paint repairs, kitchen and bath remodeling...Read more about Bryant Phillips Construction Inc

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 Chester General Contractors

81165

My garage door had been acting up lately. It wouldn't open with the remote control consistently. I called them and was immediately greeted with a friendly employee. He was able to schedule an appointment the day of but I opted for the following day. I...

- Towne doors
220621

Been using John since 1983. Recreation room, fireplace, windows, doors, remodeling, picture windows, roof, siding... there is no one better. Neat, clean, efficient.

- Bob LaRosa
81369

We hired Joe West Concrete to do a massive masonry job on our 3 story rowhome in Philadelphia. The job required that our original two layers of brick be torn down and rebuilt as a new cinderblock inside wall, and a new brick external brick wall, with new...

- Shawn Hyska
63332

I am still waiting for Joe West to finish the job. It was started in October of 2015. This is an absolute disgrace. I am the one who wrote the only other review. DO NOT let these scam artists rip you off too!!! The Coynes Mayfair, Northeast Philly

- Coleen Sweeney-Coyne
61018

It's me again. It's now May 31st and still haven't heard a word. I am sure at this point, we never will. I am so tempted to contact one of the news stations. We paid a lot of money up front and this is one job that will never be finished. This man has a h...

- Coleen Sweeney-Coyne
42682

These guys are the absolute worse. It is 12/21/2015 at 12:30 PM and they are not here to finish up a job that they have been paid to do and started on October 15, 2015. They never start working until well into the afternoon. They are full of excuses. If a...

- Coleen Sweeney-Coyne
88635

BAD BUSINESS! Joe West took full payment for a roof repair on 04/22/17 and never returned to start the job. Have called and emailed numerous times, no reply. We had work done by him previously with no problems, didn't expect this issue:( Guess this is a...

- Kim Fuller
181756

Terrible never hire him he came once a week and left us with a mess worse then we already had. He had excuse after excuse and never returned phone calls terrible person he should be ashamed of himself. DONT HIRE THIS POS

- Disgruntled Customer
67465

Using A. Lawless Contracting was a great experience from start to finish. I have never met a person that takes this much pride in his work. He was very knowledgeable and professional. He took my ideas and dreams I had for my home and brought them to life....

- Jacqueline Grogan
67973

A Lawless Contracting was recently hired to remodel my family's home and it is one of the best decisions we have made. Steve came out to my home and even though we weren't sure how our different styles would go together A Lawless Contracting made it happe...

- Rebecca Mcilhenny
67456

A Lawless contracting has excellent service from the first contact on the phone to the complete finish of the job. He takes great pride in the work he does and did the job as if it were his own! He was very accommodating to get the job done around my own ...

- Melissa L
84090

Catalin Cozma's work is excellent. He totally gutted and remodeled the master bathroom of my recently purchased home. He also installed new kitchen appliances. He and his crew at Avant Garde pay attention to detail, are reliable, and finish on schedul...

- Andrea Gosfield

Everything You Need to Know About Chester General Contractors

General Contractor Services isn’t exactly what I’m looking for. Are there more specific services similar to general contractors available in Chester?

If you’ve determined that general contractor services are not quite what you were looking for, or if you had a specific project in mind that is similar to general contractor services, we can still help you find the right professional in Chester.

Chester has 50 general contractor professionals that can help you with your general contractor services job. Head to our Pros Page to find specific general contractors-pros in Chester.

Who are the best General Contractors in Chester?

We've found 50 general contractor providers that are available to you in Chester.

Keep in mind that every project has different requirements, and some general contractor professionals maybe be more equipped to handle the specifications of your general contractor services work than others. Talk to multiple general contractors before deciding which one is right for you. You will want to consider how much they charge, if they are properly licensed for general contractor services work in Chester, and if your project is a fit. Here are some suggested professionals and companies to get you started:

  • Avantgarde Home Improvements
    • Location: Chester
    • Been in business since: 2008
  • Trump Contracting LLC
    • Location: Chester
  • JW Drywall LLC
    • Location: Chester

What zip codes in Chester have the best General Contractors?

Below we've listed Chester zip codes that have great selections of general contractors:

All General Contractors in Chester, PA

Porch Pro Headshot Dynamic General Contracting Inc
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Dynamic General Contracting Inc. is a Licensed and Insured Business we are proven of excellence in dsigning and managing several building and construction projects in Pa. No matter the size of your project. We will plan,construct and maintain your project.Effective planning is crucial to the success...Read more about Dynamic General Contracting Inc
Dynamic General Contracting Inc. is a Licensed and Insured Business we are proven of excellence in dsigning and managing several building and construction projects in Pa. No matter the size of your project. We will plan,construct and maintain your project.Effective planning is crucial to the success...Read more about Dynamic General Contracting Inc
Porch Pro Headshot Jamison and Sons LLC
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(5)
Brighten up your backyard patio with professional light installations from the experts at Jamison and Sons LLC. Located in Perryville, MD, they have earned a 5-star rating from previous customers.
Brighten up your backyard patio with professional light installations from the experts at Jamison and Sons LLC. Located in Perryville, MD, they have earned a 5-star rating from previous customers.
Porch Pro Headshot Cutting Edge Studio LLC
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Cutting Edge Studio is here to take your vision and make it a reality. We are here to turn your house into a home. Our client's needs are our number one priority. We will work together to come up with a plan for your complete remodels, minor repairs, subtle updates, or house flipping.
Cutting Edge Studio is here to take your vision and make it a reality. We are here to turn your house into a home. Our client's needs are our number one priority. We will work together to come up with a plan for your complete remodels, minor repairs, subtle updates, or house flipping.
Porch Pro Headshot John Laughlin Jr. General Contractor
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(3)
Call for your General Contracting needs today!
Call for your General Contracting needs today!
Porch Pro Headshot Garage Door Repair Haddon Towne
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(1)
"My garage door had been acting up lately. It wouldn't open with the remote control consistently. I called them and was immediately greeted with a friendly employee. He was able to schedule an appointment the day of but I opted for the following day. I was expecting him anytime between 11a to 1p...Read more about Garage Door Repair Haddon Towne
"My garage door had been acting up lately. It wouldn't open with the remote control consistently. I called them and was immediately greeted with a friendly employee. He was able to schedule an appointment the day of but I opted for the following day. I was expecting him anytime between 11a to 1p...Read more about Garage Door Repair Haddon Towne
Porch Pro Headshot A Lawless Contracting
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(2)
A Lawless Contracting in Rising Sun, MD is a trusted vinyl siding company that has earned themselves an outstanding 5-star rating from previous clients.
A Lawless Contracting in Rising Sun, MD is a trusted vinyl siding company that has earned themselves an outstanding 5-star rating from previous clients.
Porch Pro Headshot DeMeo Builders
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(17)
Located in Media, Demeo Builders is a home building contractor that started in 2001. They offer wine cellar design, home building and other services.
Located in Media, Demeo Builders is a home building contractor that started in 2001. They offer wine cellar design, home building and other services.
Porch Pro Headshot Joseph A. Browne Roofing & Siding
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(2)
Based out of Brookhaven, Joseph A. Browne Roofing & Siding is a roofing and siding company that also installs windows, doors and gutter.
Based out of Brookhaven, Joseph A. Browne Roofing & Siding is a roofing and siding company that also installs windows, doors and gutter.
Porch Pro Headshot Ez Hardscaping & Landscaping
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
With us you get more than what you pay for
With us you get more than what you pay for
Porch Pro Headshot Anatolian retail and tradin llc , DBA: AC HOME SERVICES
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Best Service for best price !!! Your satisfaction is our priority
Best Service for best price !!! Your satisfaction is our priority
Porch Pro Headshot Diamond Shyne Cleaning
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Diamond Shyne Cleaning is your best cleaners in town! We offer professional cleaning service in Brookhaven, PA. If you need any residential cleaning services, call us right now! Commercial Cleaning; Residential House Cleaners; Commercial Office Cleaning Parkside, PA; Upland, PA; Aston, PA; Eddystone...Read more about Diamond Shyne Cleaning
Diamond Shyne Cleaning is your best cleaners in town! We offer professional cleaning service in Brookhaven, PA. If you need any residential cleaning services, call us right now! Commercial Cleaning; Residential House Cleaners; Commercial Office Cleaning Parkside, PA; Upland, PA; Aston, PA; Eddystone...Read more about Diamond Shyne Cleaning
Porch Pro Headshot Carrhart Building Services
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Located in Elkton, Carrhart Building Services offers professional vinyl siding services that will keep your home well-protected and pleasing to the eye.
Located in Elkton, Carrhart Building Services offers professional vinyl siding services that will keep your home well-protected and pleasing to the eye.
Porch Pro Headshot House Shells
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Fantastic vinyl siding services are awaiting you at the highly reputable House Shells in Brookhaven.
Fantastic vinyl siding services are awaiting you at the highly reputable House Shells in Brookhaven.
Porch Pro Headshot Global Discount Door and Service Corp.
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Factory Trained Technicians
Factory Trained Technicians