Top 10 General Contractors in Elsmere, DE

Porch Pro Headshot Basement Waterproofing Nationwide
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(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
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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 JD Gates Exteriors
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(62)
JD Gates Inc. is one of the most experienced and respected construction companies in Delaware. For over 40 years, we have transformed the visions of our clients into award winning projects. We build with the intention of exceeding our client's expectations and deliver long lasting products. Our mi...Read more about JD Gates Exteriors
JD Gates Inc. is one of the most experienced and respected construction companies in Delaware. For over 40 years, we have transformed the visions of our clients into award winning projects. We build with the intention of exceeding our client's expectations and deliver long lasting products. Our mi...Read more about JD Gates Exteriors
Porch Pro Headshot Enhance home improvements Kitchens & Refacing
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(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 All in one Property Maintenance
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(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 First State Contractors Inc
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(5)
First State Contractors, Inc. is a full-service interior and exterior company. We are a third generation family owned company, serving the Delaware community. We are a fully licensed, bonded, and insured business, servicing our residential, multi-housing, and commercial neighbors.
First State Contractors, Inc. is a full-service interior and exterior company. We are a third generation family owned company, serving the Delaware community. We are a fully licensed, bonded, and insured business, servicing our residential, multi-housing, and commercial neighbors.
Porch Pro Headshot Spirit Building Concepts Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(12)
The 5-star-rated specialists at Spirit Building Concepts Inc. in Marydel can bring your vinyl siding back to like-new quality in no time.
The 5-star-rated specialists at Spirit Building Concepts Inc. in Marydel can bring your vinyl siding back to like-new quality in no time.
Porch Pro Headshot Affordable Living Solutions
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Affordable Living Solutions is dedicated to customer satisfaction and quality. We strive to meet and exceed your expectations and provide affordable quality products. If you are looking to have your Air Conditioner or Heater Serviced or Replaced, but do not want to be overwhelmed by big companies an...Read more about Affordable Living Solutions
Affordable Living Solutions is dedicated to customer satisfaction and quality. We strive to meet and exceed your expectations and provide affordable quality products. If you are looking to have your Air Conditioner or Heater Serviced or Replaced, but do not want to be overwhelmed by big companies an...Read more about Affordable Living Solutions
Porch Pro Headshot Creative Construction
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
We do everything from new construction to rehabs. Interior and exterior projects, basements, kitchens, decks, bathrooms, hardwood floors, doors and windows
We do everything from new construction to rehabs. Interior and exterior projects, basements, kitchens, decks, bathrooms, hardwood floors, doors and windows
Porch Pro Headshot Garage Door Repair Haddon Heights NJ
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(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 Heights NJ
"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 Heights NJ
Porch Pro Headshot Aeq Carpentry
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Andrew Quesenberry, a Delaware native, started his Wilmington based construction company, A.E. Quesenberry Carpentry (AEQ Carpentry) in 2010. After working in the construction industry for over 35 years, Andrew realized the noticeable lack of intention, lack of quality and lack of pride for one’s wo...Read more about Aeq Carpentry
Andrew Quesenberry, a Delaware native, started his Wilmington based construction company, A.E. Quesenberry Carpentry (AEQ Carpentry) in 2010. After working in the construction industry for over 35 years, Andrew realized the noticeable lack of intention, lack of quality and lack of pride for one’s wo...Read more about Aeq Carpentry

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 Elsmere General Contractors

81079

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...

- Haddon doors
164117

They were very professional and did a great job building my room addition. Thank you Porch.

- Mike Kope
152707

Great company

- Wesley David
152706

Hard working group that really puts the customer first!!

- Wesley David
93466

I must say that I would highly recommend this company ( JD Gates) they installed two slider doors on my duplex property.. after they were finished about a week later my husband noticed a small area that needed attention.., the owner came by to access the ...

- Rosemarie Murphy
134661

I am so pleased that I choose JD Gates to install my deck. From my initial conversation with Jennifer, who was knowledgeable and informative I was impressed. Her honesty and integrity was refreshing. The start date she quoted me was the day the job was st...

- Deidra Maxwell
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
403139

Single Females don't touch this company. Unexplained expense and cleanup for the homeowner!! Lying salesman, no guts leaders to help.

- MJ Miles
403138

Worst job ever. Will be spending LOTS $$$$$ to reconstruct what was once a beautifully finished basement. BUYER BEWARE!!

- MJ Miles

Everything You Need to Know About Elsmere General Contractors

Can I browse unscreened General Contractors in Elsmere?

We do our best to screen all of our general contractors. However, there are still some general contractor professionals in Elsmere that have not been pre-screened. This means that their licenses may not be up to date to operate in Elsmere or DE. Always be sure to pre-screen them yourself before hiring. Here are some unscreened professionals offering general contractor services:

  • JD Gates Exteriors:
    • Active/Verified License: Yes, Current Status is Active
  • Re-Design Contractors, LLC:
    • Active/Verified License: No, current status is inactive
  • M.J. Bilecki Contracting:
    • Active/Verified License: No, current status is inactive

How do I know that I found the right General Contractor in Elsmere 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 Elsmere 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 Elsmere:

  • Are they properly licensed? Elsmere has 4 licensed General Contractors Pros.
  • Are they BBB accredited? 1 pros in Elsmere are.
  • Check if they are they BBB rated: 6 are A-rated in Elsmere.
  • 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.

Who are the best General Contractors in Elsmere?

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

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 Elsmere, and if your project is a fit. Here are some suggested professionals and companies to get you started:

  • Saviors Custom Carpentry
    • Location: Elsmere
  • Garage Door Repairs Franklinville, NJ
    • Location: Elsmere
  • Homes For Improvement
    • Location: Elsmere

All General Contractors in Elsmere, DE

Porch Pro Headshot PSDtoMagentoDeveloper
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
PSDtoMagentoDeveloper is a global IT firm for mobile and web platforms. The company has been delivering simple to complex mobile and web solutions for small to large sized enterprises. With the incorporation of coherent strategy, we have been helping clients in transforming their business with scala...Read more about PSDtoMagentoDeveloper
PSDtoMagentoDeveloper is a global IT firm for mobile and web platforms. The company has been delivering simple to complex mobile and web solutions for small to large sized enterprises. With the incorporation of coherent strategy, we have been helping clients in transforming their business with scala...Read more about PSDtoMagentoDeveloper
Porch Pro Headshot Delaware Real Estate Answers LLC
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(10)
Porch Pro Headshot Jenkins Supreme CLG SVC LLC -(310) 957-4022
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Jenkins Supreme CLG SVC LLC is cleaning company based in Wilmington, DE. Do not hesitate to call us now, we do it all. professional janitorial cleaning, professional Janitorial Company, professional Janitorial Service, local janitorial company, local Janitorial service, licensed Janitorial Service, ...Read more about Jenkins Supreme CLG SVC LLC -(310) 957-4022
Jenkins Supreme CLG SVC LLC is cleaning company based in Wilmington, DE. Do not hesitate to call us now, we do it all. professional janitorial cleaning, professional Janitorial Company, professional Janitorial Service, local janitorial company, local Janitorial service, licensed Janitorial Service, ...Read more about Jenkins Supreme CLG SVC LLC -(310) 957-4022
Porch Pro Headshot Wilmington Builders & Contrs
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Wilmington Builders & Contractors offers general contracting, remodeling, and handyman services to the Wilmington area. Call us today!
Wilmington Builders & Contractors offers general contracting, remodeling, and handyman services to the Wilmington area. Call us today!
Porch Pro Headshot Cleveland Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Porch Pro Headshot A. E. G. Contracting, L.L.C.
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Porch Pro Headshot Scott Hardingllc
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Remodeling and home improvements from small repairs, doors, windows and molding to additions and large renovations. We are a lead safe firm licensed in PA and DE. We like working with our customers to get there project the way they want it. We are fully insured and have been in business since 1988. ...Read more about Scott Hardingllc
Remodeling and home improvements from small repairs, doors, windows and molding to additions and large renovations. We are a lead safe firm licensed in PA and DE. We like working with our customers to get there project the way they want it. We are fully insured and have been in business since 1988. ...Read more about Scott Hardingllc
Porch Pro Headshot RIVERA GENERAL CONTRACTING LLC
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
(4)
Porch Pro Headshot Edge Construction Corp
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Edge Construction Corp is a general contractor that provides roofing, bathroom remodeling, framing and other services. They are based in Wilmington.
Edge Construction Corp is a general contractor that provides roofing, bathroom remodeling, framing and other services. They are based in Wilmington.
Porch Pro Headshot Latham Construction Group
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Latham Construction Group is a general contractor that provides exterior remodeling and green building as well as other services. They are located in Newark.
Latham Construction Group is a general contractor that provides exterior remodeling and green building as well as other services. They are located in Newark.
Porch Pro Headshot John Ginder Contractor
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Porch Pro Headshot RASUL'S
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware
Porch Pro Headshot Diamond State Development Corporation
General Contractors
Serves Elsmere, Delaware

Latest projects near Elsmere

Recent projects booked on Porch
Wilmington 19804
Residential Building
Start Date
I'm flexible
Project type
Something else
Residential building project type
We have a Larson storm door with split glass….top pulls down for screen. Screen has rip and new part was ordered from Lowes. I need someone to put the replacement glass/screen combo in the storm door.
Extent of design prep work
No