Top 10 General Contractors in Columbia, PA

Porch Pro Headshot Best Buy Waterproofing
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
(345)
Full service basement waterproofing, moisture control, & mold remediation. 24/7 Emergency Services. Call us before the water rises.
Full service basement waterproofing, moisture control, & mold remediation. 24/7 Emergency Services. Call us before the water rises.
Porch Pro Headshot Home Care Renovations LLC
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
(23)
"I found King Home Improvements to be very good in the following areas 1. Cost effective. 2. Quality of Workmanship. 3. Compliance to Quote - completed project within cost and estimated time. 4. Easy to work with - flexible with additional tasks and modifications requested by customer to original...Read more about Home Care Renovations LLC
"I found King Home Improvements to be very good in the following areas 1. Cost effective. 2. Quality of Workmanship. 3. Compliance to Quote - completed project within cost and estimated time. 4. Easy to work with - flexible with additional tasks and modifications requested by customer to original...Read more about Home Care Renovations LLC
Porch Pro Headshot PA Home Works LLC
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
(11)
"Their ongoing communication throughout our project kept us informed of ideas and thoughts that made our project better. We definitely made the right decision using HomeWorks. Jeff has a lot of great ideas while his staff made sure our home was kept clean and the project was done correctly. Kudos...Read more about PA Home Works LLC
"Their ongoing communication throughout our project kept us informed of ideas and thoughts that made our project better. We definitely made the right decision using HomeWorks. Jeff has a lot of great ideas while his staff made sure our home was kept clean and the project was done correctly. Kudos...Read more about PA Home Works LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Contractors Renovation
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
(9)
"Seems like a great company to me. They handled there business very professionally and prompt while not having that "big" business feel to it. They did great work and was very satisfied after it was finished. I told my neighbors about it and would recommend to everyone."
"Seems like a great company to me. They handled there business very professionally and prompt while not having that "big" business feel to it. They did great work and was very satisfied after it was finished. I told my neighbors about it and would recommend to everyone."
Porch Pro Headshot Enhance home improvements Kitchens & Refacing
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, 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 Pa Basement
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, 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 Lee Dickerson & son
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
Lee Dickerson and Son offers remodeling, renovation and home addition construction services. Garage building, basement remodeling, kitchen renovations, bathroom remodeling and deck building are our specialities. We work in Middletown PA, Harrisburg PA, Hershey PA, Mechanicsburg PA, Camp Hill PA, Di...Read more about Lee Dickerson & son
Lee Dickerson and Son offers remodeling, renovation and home addition construction services. Garage building, basement remodeling, kitchen renovations, bathroom remodeling and deck building are our specialities. We work in Middletown PA, Harrisburg PA, Hershey PA, Mechanicsburg PA, Camp Hill PA, Di...Read more about Lee Dickerson & son
Porch Pro Headshot Bear Bones Contracting & Design
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
Here at Bear Bones we have years of experience and education in the construction, architecture and building maintenance fields. We love to design and build our clients ideas. From a room you want remodeled and a patio you always wanted. To the pipe that needs repaired and your electrical issues to...Read more about Bear Bones Contracting & Design
Here at Bear Bones we have years of experience and education in the construction, architecture and building maintenance fields. We love to design and build our clients ideas. From a room you want remodeled and a patio you always wanted. To the pipe that needs repaired and your electrical issues to...Read more about Bear Bones Contracting & Design
Porch Pro Headshot Key Consultants LLC Waterproofing
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
I have been in the construction business and waterproofing industries for 25 years. Key Consultants LLC handles all your waterproofing needs. Our crews are highly trained with years of experience. Also, our inspectors are licensed with years of knowledge in the waterproofing industry.
100% response rate
I have been in the construction business and waterproofing industries for 25 years. Key Consultants LLC handles all your waterproofing needs. Our crews are highly trained with years of experience. Also, our inspectors are licensed with years of knowledge in the waterproofing industry.
Porch Pro Headshot Mel Kelley Design/Build, LLC
General Contractors
Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
We are a full service, design/build remodeling company. We walk our clients through the remodeling process, from the initial concepts and designs, through the selection of products, and then through the construction process.
We are a full service, design/build remodeling company. We walk our clients through the remodeling process, from the initial concepts and designs, through the selection of products, and then through the construction process.

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 Columbia General Contractors

170080

Best group of workers! Pleasant, fast and cleaned up! Would recommend them highly!

- Pamela Collins
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
17282

Converted our attic/storage room into a completely finished bedroom. Starting with removing carpet to laying sub floor and laminate flooring. Put up new drywall and added additional lighting.Tore out and old closet,and built new one. Painted interior wall...

- Wm. Ryandell Simpson
9682

Had a 12x 16 ft deck built and work was done great. The foundation was done tough like I wanted, Dimensions done perfect and leveled. This contractor works clean, professional and project was done real fast. I recommend them any day. They also gave me a ...

- Luis Padin
9354

Excellent value. Excellent to keep appointment. Excellent work quality.

- Leyda V. Febres
9565

Excellent work quality. Excellent to keep appointment. Excellent value.

Excellent job. Very professional. Quick and clean job. Excellent price. They work with my needs and accomplished every aspect.

- besaly santiago
9353

Excellent work quality. Excellent value. Excellent responsiveness in communication.

- Leyda V. Febres
9424

Excellent to keep appointment. Excellent responsiveness in communication. Excellent value.

The job was done like me and my wife want it, They help Us in everything, materials,ideas.. QUALITY JOB, GOOD GUYS AND HUMANS...

- randy espinal
227673

I hired Kin Construction to do a dry wall repair. I m very satisfied with their work and personal interaction. I’ll hire them again as the need presents itself. I’m glad I contacted them!

- Bill Kaelin

Everything You Need to Know About Columbia General Contractors

Does the general contractor I want to hire need to be licensed in Columbia?

Before you start any project, it is crucial to learn about the certifications and licenses that you or your General Contractor need to have. There are 5 general contractors in Columbia that are licensed.

Here are the types of license(s) General Contractors need to have to work on General Contractor Services jobs in PA:

    How do I know that I found the right General Contractor in Columbia for my general contractor services project?

    Finding the right general contractor for your project can be stressful.... when you don't search with Porch. We've pulled together everything you need to know about General Contractor Services in Columbia so you can have some peace of mind before starting your project.

    Here’s what you need to know to choose the right general contractor in Columbia:

    • Are they properly licensed? Columbia has 5 licensed General Contractors Pros.
    • Are they BBB accredited? 1 pros in Columbia are.
    • Check if they are they BBB rated: 4 are A-rated in Columbia.
    • Is the quality worth the price? Make sure to find the general contractor that can deliver the quality you're looking for, without going way over your budget. Don't forget that every job is going to be different.
    • Speak with them over the phone: Contact multiple general contractors pros to see if you’re on the same page when it comes to your project.

    How many general contractors does Columbia have?

    There are around 50 companies throughout Columbia to help you with your next general contractor services job.

    • 4 of them have an A or A+ rating from Better Business Bureau.

    All General Contractors in Columbia, PA

    Porch Pro Headshot Locally hated construction llc
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    (7)
    Here at locally hated construction llc we treat our customers like family. We offer a 20% discount to all active or retired military. Locally hated construction llc appreciates their service
    Here at locally hated construction llc we treat our customers like family. We offer a 20% discount to all active or retired military. Locally hated construction llc appreciates their service
    Porch Pro Headshot Creative Gazeobs
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    The Amish carpenters at Creative Gazebos hand-build pavilions, pergolas, and gazebos in our updated Lancaster County workshop. Our team uses modern tools and construction techniques to create attractive and long-lasting structures that will add a touch of elegance and comfort to your property. All s...Read more about Creative Gazeobs
    The Amish carpenters at Creative Gazebos hand-build pavilions, pergolas, and gazebos in our updated Lancaster County workshop. Our team uses modern tools and construction techniques to create attractive and long-lasting structures that will add a touch of elegance and comfort to your property. All s...Read more about Creative Gazeobs
    Porch Pro Headshot Olde Glory Contractors
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    (81)
    Fantastic vinyl siding services are available at Old Glory Contractors in Owings Mills, MD.
    Fantastic vinyl siding services are available at Old Glory Contractors in Owings Mills, MD.
    Porch Pro Headshot Jayel Enterprises
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    Look no further we are the company for your all your Construction, Home Improvement, and remodeling needs, starting with treating you and your family with the upmost respect and caring for your home and property as if it was our own. We have you covered from digging the foundation to installing that...Read more about Jayel Enterprises
    Look no further we are the company for your all your Construction, Home Improvement, and remodeling needs, starting with treating you and your family with the upmost respect and caring for your home and property as if it was our own. We have you covered from digging the foundation to installing that...Read more about Jayel Enterprises
    Porch Pro Headshot HD home renovations and repair
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    HD has an interior remodeling expert and a carpenter that specializes in exterior work. These skills allow almost any remodeling task to be completely and competently done. The list that follows are things we can do but not limited to: 1. vinyl siding and soffit installations 2. electrical installa...Read more about HD home renovations and repair
    HD has an interior remodeling expert and a carpenter that specializes in exterior work. These skills allow almost any remodeling task to be completely and competently done. The list that follows are things we can do but not limited to: 1. vinyl siding and soffit installations 2. electrical installa...Read more about HD home renovations and repair
    Porch Pro Headshot Twin Hollow Construction
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    Investing in the American Dream is one of life's most exciting accomplishments. Therefore, choosing the right builder to handle the design and construction of your dream home is an important, vital step down the path to a positive and successful experience.Twin Hollow Construction LLC, has helped ho...Read more about Twin Hollow Construction
    Investing in the American Dream is one of life's most exciting accomplishments. Therefore, choosing the right builder to handle the design and construction of your dream home is an important, vital step down the path to a positive and successful experience.Twin Hollow Construction LLC, has helped ho...Read more about Twin Hollow Construction
    Porch Pro Headshot B-Squared Contractors
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    The experts at B-Squared Contractors in the Butlertown area can transform your home with their top-notch vinyl siding services.
    The experts at B-Squared Contractors in the Butlertown area can transform your home with their top-notch vinyl siding services.
    Porch Pro Headshot SDW Construction LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    SDW Construction is a general contractor based in Strasburg. Providing new home construction, remodeling, garage construction, and other services, they were founded in 2002.
    SDW Construction is a general contractor based in Strasburg. Providing new home construction, remodeling, garage construction, and other services, they were founded in 2002.
    Porch Pro Headshot J&B Modern Designs LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    J&B is an experienced team of a combined 56 years of framers, electricians, HVAC, pavers patios and landscapers!!
    J&B is an experienced team of a combined 56 years of framers, electricians, HVAC, pavers patios and landscapers!!
    Porch Pro Headshot Althouse Exteriors
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    Althouse Exteriors is a roofing company based out of Berks County, PA. They provide roofing, siding, snow removal, and other services.
    Althouse Exteriors is a roofing company based out of Berks County, PA. They provide roofing, siding, snow removal, and other services.
    Porch Pro Headshot 2 By Design
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    (9)
    Porch Pro Headshot Jones Construction Services LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania
    Porch Pro Headshot General Maintenance LTD
    General Contractors
    Serves Columbia, Pennsylvania

    Latest projects near Columbia

    Recent projects booked on Porch
    Columbia 17512
    Demolition
    Start Date
    Within a week
    Fencing project type
    Remove an existing fence
    Length of fence to remove
    More than 500 feet
    Fencing material
    Wood
    Columbia 17512
    Residential Building
    Start Date
    Within a year
    Project type
    Something else
    Residential building project type
    I would like to remove a window and install a french door in its place. The house was built in 1949 and has a brick exterior FYI.
    Extent of design prep work
    No