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 Balla Custom Services
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(51)
"Brent and his crew have been doing jobs for me since before I can remember. They have done a fantastic job! Brent always strives to make your dreams come true with the budge you have. His crew constantly goes above and beyond my expectations each time and takes every aspect of my vision and brin...Read more about Balla Custom Services
"Brent and his crew have been doing jobs for me since before I can remember. They have done a fantastic job! Brent always strives to make your dreams come true with the budge you have. His crew constantly goes above and beyond my expectations each time and takes every aspect of my vision and brin...Read more about Balla Custom Services
Porch Pro Headshot Drytech Restoration Services
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(50)
"My house flooded and today I had the pleasure of working with your company during this flood. I have been SO stressed out and upset during this process. I was just overwhelmed UNTIL your crew showed up. Just two men made a HUGE difference. The gentleman that came was named Anthony and Richard he ...Read more about Drytech Restoration Services
"My house flooded and today I had the pleasure of working with your company during this flood. I have been SO stressed out and upset during this process. I was just overwhelmed UNTIL your crew showed up. Just two men made a HUGE difference. The gentleman that came was named Anthony and Richard he ...Read more about Drytech Restoration Services
Porch Pro Headshot Patrick Keenan Carpentry
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(23)
"After a great deal of research I chose Patrick Keenan Carpentry to upgrade my 30 year old deck with Trex and new railings. Gabriele, Patrick (in no particular order :-) and crew did an amazing job. From start to finish I was well informed and my questions and concerns were always met with a smile a...Read more about Patrick Keenan Carpentry
"After a great deal of research I chose Patrick Keenan Carpentry to upgrade my 30 year old deck with Trex and new railings. Gabriele, Patrick (in no particular order :-) and crew did an amazing job. From start to finish I was well informed and my questions and concerns were always met with a smile a...Read more about Patrick Keenan Carpentry
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 CP Concrete & Construction
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(7)
Building the future with our customer IF you can dream it we can build it. We are a general contracting company that specialize in customization of kitchen, bathroom, decks, addition, flooring windows doors and ceramic tile we hold our customer first prior their ideals it want we aim for to satisf...Read more about CP Concrete & Construction
100% response rate
Building the future with our customer IF you can dream it we can build it. We are a general contracting company that specialize in customization of kitchen, bathroom, decks, addition, flooring windows doors and ceramic tile we hold our customer first prior their ideals it want we aim for to satisf...Read more about CP Concrete & Construction
Porch Pro Headshot D&L Property Management LLC
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(5)
"My fiancé and I hired D&L Property Management to move our steps. We had a very narrow staircase that led to our family room. The steps were located in our kitchen making the kitchen smaller. We had Leon remove the steps from our kitchen and relocate them in our living room. Now, we have more real e...Read more about D&L Property Management LLC
"My fiancé and I hired D&L Property Management to move our steps. We had a very narrow staircase that led to our family room. The steps were located in our kitchen making the kitchen smaller. We had Leon remove the steps from our kitchen and relocate them in our living room. Now, we have more real e...Read more about D&L Property Management LLC
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 CP Home Improvement LLC
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(7)
Journeywoman carpenter, framing,drywall, finishing, painting, installing flooring, light fixtures, doors, hardware, cabinets\vanity , shelves, ceiling grid & ceiling tiles, bathroom fixtures, trim work, etc.
Journeywoman carpenter, framing,drywall, finishing, painting, installing flooring, light fixtures, doors, hardware, cabinets\vanity , shelves, ceiling grid & ceiling tiles, bathroom fixtures, trim work, etc.
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

231098

Van came in and took care all my projects. Fair pricing and very reliable.. also stand by his wrk

- Ronald Walthour
158038

Mr. Van Harper was presented with a difficult installation job and did it willingly and without reservation. The job was installing a washer/dryer in a tight area. I will use him for other projects and will refer him to other people as well.

- Mark Ellis
227625

Van installed a plug for my new electric range. He was very professional and a very nice person. Good job Van

- Margaret Pfeifer
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
311522

We thought the Balla team did a great job, and we are very happy with our new deck, patio, and outdoor living space. The Balla team was responsive to our questions, and the on-site crew were genuinely nice people. As with any construction project, there...

- Susan OConnor
26724

We love working with Brent and his team. Brent helps us to manage our home and any maintenance that our tenants need while we are across the country. We feel at ease knowing that he and his team will be prompt, respectful and efficient. They are competiti...

- Declan Balla
17784

Thank you, Balla Custom Services, for building us a custom bench to go with our dining room table. It fits perfectly in the room and was completed in nearly no time at all. We are extremely happy with the outcome and will definitely refer BCS to all our f...

- Matt Lutter
478991

We cannot say enough glowing things about the Balla team. BCS turned our unfinished crawl space of an attic into a gorgeous bedroom/bathroom. Not only are they expert craftsmen, but - even more importantly to use - each and every person we came in contact...

- Peale Iglehart
10875

Hard working and reliable. Consistant workmanship and easy to work with.

- Debbie Puff
15824

Does great work, very curiosity and I would use them again.

14945

He does good work. It is done right and professional. I would highly recommended him.

- Juan Wenson
14936

He did an excellent job on my basement. I will use again and recommend him to all my friends and family.

- Latriece fearon

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 Victor R Burgos & Son Inc
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(5)
WHAT WE ARE KNOWN FOR: The three things that consistently come up in our customer surveys are uncompromising craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and constant communication. What this means for you is that your job is done right and you always know what's next and when it will happen. W...Read more about Victor R Burgos & Son Inc
WHAT WE ARE KNOWN FOR: The three things that consistently come up in our customer surveys are uncompromising craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and constant communication. What this means for you is that your job is done right and you always know what's next and when it will happen. W...Read more about Victor R Burgos & Son Inc
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 Brothers Home Repair
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Our company provides a start to finish service, We are a father and sons owned company. From initial estimate to material selection, design through installation, all services are provided by the owner guaranteeing complete customer satisfaction. We specialize in all aspects of home remodeling, repai...Read more about Brothers Home Repair
Our company provides a start to finish service, We are a father and sons owned company. From initial estimate to material selection, design through installation, all services are provided by the owner guaranteeing complete customer satisfaction. We specialize in all aspects of home remodeling, repai...Read more about Brothers Home Repair
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 A+ HANDYMAN SERVICES LLC
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
We specialize in repairs, renovations, property management, and everything else inbetween! Tired of having to call multiple companies for all your various jobs around the house? Well look no further than A+ Handyman Services! Whether you need your IKEA dresser put together, want to upgrade your kitc...Read more about A+ HANDYMAN SERVICES LLC
We specialize in repairs, renovations, property management, and everything else inbetween! Tired of having to call multiple companies for all your various jobs around the house? Well look no further than A+ Handyman Services! Whether you need your IKEA dresser put together, want to upgrade your kitc...Read more about A+ HANDYMAN SERVICES LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Atlantic Imperial Home Improvement
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
(4)
"On our initial meeting, I shared my horror stories. I also stated my reservations and distrust in contractors. He did his best to put me at ease. Van’s work, demeanor and ethics spoke louder than words. I was more than pleased. I will never call anyone else."
"On our initial meeting, I shared my horror stories. I also stated my reservations and distrust in contractors. He did his best to put me at ease. Van’s work, demeanor and ethics spoke louder than words. I was more than pleased. I will never call anyone else."
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 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 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 JLB Improvements
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Have you ever had that moment where you wish you could just figure something out? Well, before you have your next home improvement meltdown, give JLB Improvements a call! I am a licensed and insured contractor with more than a decade of experience. I've done drywall, electrical, plumbing, roofing,...Read more about JLB Improvements
Have you ever had that moment where you wish you could just figure something out? Well, before you have your next home improvement meltdown, give JLB Improvements a call! I am a licensed and insured contractor with more than a decade of experience. I've done drywall, electrical, plumbing, roofing,...Read more about JLB Improvements
Porch Pro Headshot Distinctive Designers & Builders
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Porch Pro Headshot Carrhart Building Services
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
Carrhart Building Services in Elkton, MD is just a phone call away when you need top-notch vinyl siding services.
Carrhart Building Services in Elkton, MD is just a phone call away when you need top-notch vinyl siding services.
Porch Pro Headshot Haddington Group
General Contractors
Serves Chester, Pennsylvania
The best service for the best customers.
The best service for the best customers.