Top 10 General Contractors in Ephrata, PA

Porch Pro Headshot Tri-Valley Contractors
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
(17)
Tri-Valley Contractors is a general contractor building quality, classic homes for families in the Lebanon County, Pennsylvania area. We make the house a home where families celebrate holidays, barbecue and enjoy just being together. Building a new home is no easy task, but we've made the process as...Read more about Tri-Valley Contractors
Tri-Valley Contractors is a general contractor building quality, classic homes for families in the Lebanon County, Pennsylvania area. We make the house a home where families celebrate holidays, barbecue and enjoy just being together. Building a new home is no easy task, but we've made the process as...Read more about Tri-Valley Contractors
Porch Pro Headshot Hardie Home Improvements
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
(27)
"I used Hardie Home Improvement to move my laundry room. I cannot say enough good things about Scott and his company. Fairly priced, thorough, and did great work. Scott even came back out when the dryer stopped working - diagnosed a separate issue, then fixed it for no cost. I’m happy to support gre...Read more about Hardie Home Improvements
"I used Hardie Home Improvement to move my laundry room. I cannot say enough good things about Scott and his company. Fairly priced, thorough, and did great work. Scott even came back out when the dryer stopped working - diagnosed a separate issue, then fixed it for no cost. I’m happy to support gre...Read more about Hardie Home Improvements
Porch Pro Headshot MSM CONTRACTING
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
(4)
We are a father son company that takes pride in everything we do. We perform all phases of construction ourselves and work to satisfy our customers. There is no job to big or to small for us. I am a U.S. Army veteran and have been in business for over 25 years and have a 100% customer satisfaction r...Read more about MSM CONTRACTING
We are a father son company that takes pride in everything we do. We perform all phases of construction ourselves and work to satisfy our customers. There is no job to big or to small for us. I am a U.S. Army veteran and have been in business for over 25 years and have a 100% customer satisfaction r...Read more about MSM CONTRACTING
Porch Pro Headshot Triton Landscaping
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
(40)
Transform your outdoor area with Triton Landscaping in Douglassville, who takes as much pride in your landscaping as you do.
Transform your outdoor area with Triton Landscaping in Douglassville, who takes as much pride in your landscaping as you do.
Porch Pro Headshot Graystone Roofing & Siding
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
(29)
Roofing and siding contractor based in Lancaster PA. We offer roof replacement, roof repair and roof inspections and have experience in all types of roofing from shingle to metal, rubber and slate. We also offer vinyl siding installation and are a GAF home remodeling contractor. Over 12 years’ expe...Read more about Graystone Roofing & Siding
Roofing and siding contractor based in Lancaster PA. We offer roof replacement, roof repair and roof inspections and have experience in all types of roofing from shingle to metal, rubber and slate. We also offer vinyl siding installation and are a GAF home remodeling contractor. Over 12 years’ expe...Read more about Graystone Roofing & Siding
Porch Pro Headshot Smucker Brothers Construction LLC
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
Smucker Bros Construction is a family owned and operated business started in July of 2011. We have many years of construction experience and pride ourselves on our custom, high-quality work. We specialized in custom home design, additions and remodeling, vinyl decks, custom garages, and anything els...Read more about Smucker Brothers Construction LLC
Smucker Bros Construction is a family owned and operated business started in July of 2011. We have many years of construction experience and pride ourselves on our custom, high-quality work. We specialized in custom home design, additions and remodeling, vinyl decks, custom garages, and anything els...Read more about Smucker Brothers Construction LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Fisher's Backyard Structures
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
(17)
The Amish, Mennonite, and Plain communities of Lancaster County have been around for hundreds of years. Generation after generation, these craftsmen have passed down their community’s hard work ethic and focus on building premium quality outdoor products at an affordable price. At Fisher’s Backyard...Read more about Fisher's Backyard Structures
The Amish, Mennonite, and Plain communities of Lancaster County have been around for hundreds of years. Generation after generation, these craftsmen have passed down their community’s hard work ethic and focus on building premium quality outdoor products at an affordable price. At Fisher’s Backyard...Read more about Fisher's Backyard Structures
Porch Pro Headshot Bear Bones Contracting & Design
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, 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 Knutsen Outdoor
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
(65)
Incorporate professional outdoor lighting into your landscape from Knutsen Landscaping in the Essex area.
Incorporate professional outdoor lighting into your landscape from Knutsen Landscaping in the Essex area.
Porch Pro Headshot Key Consultants LLC Waterproofing
General Contractors
Serves Ephrata, 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.
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.

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 Ephrata General Contractors

271178

In a word, our experience with this outfit has been horrible. I will say "shame on us" as when we had trouble getting them to call us back, that should have been our red flag to do some research. We are working with a pool company who recommended this c...

- Linda Ginder
240434

I would not hire Triton Landscaping or Ben Lesnak or John DeMarco. While they may seem like decent people, they are not. The service and deliverables are horrible. Here's what will happen. They will show you a great rendering (see images). They will...

- David Haas
49006

He knows he owes me money and will tell everyone I know he owes me money and don't use his company

- Vito Smith
49005

Worked for him briefly still owes me $150 sent my 1099 to me but no check .

- Vito Smith
47674

I worked for Mike briefly and he still owes me $150 hasn't paid me and guess he's not planning 2 Thanks Mike

- Vito Smith
131232

Scott added a deck to our home which took 4 months to complete. He measured wrong twice costing us a permit violation and never followed through with a final inspection to make sure all work was completed (it wasn’t).

- Glenn Quinty
91930

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

Scott took a look at the project the same day that I contacted him. He helped me to evaluate the cost of repairs verses replacement. He is very considerate and I look forward to being able to use his company on other in the future.

- David Dudgeon
79093

Hardie contacted me right after I sent my initial inquiry to Porch. We scheduled his site visit for noon on 1/25/17. He called two hours after the agreed upon time and said he was tied up on another job. We rescheduled his visit for noon on 1/27/17. He di...

- Edward Svetanoff
448690

I would rather not give any star to this contractor. He boosted how many years experience he had and I foolishly believed experience equals quality. Far from it!! After only 4 months of his “ completing” the shed, I found water leaks in three different pl...

- Anna Zarb

Everything You Need to Know About Ephrata General Contractors

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

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 8 general contractors in Ephrata that are licensed.

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

    I have General Contractor Services work that I need done in Ephrata. What should my budget be?

    Our data on recent general contractor projects in Ephrata shows that larger general contractor services projects in city are often upwards of $0.00. However, this price depends on a number of factors. Cost can increase or decrease based on any/all of the following:

    • Location: general contractors travel time may factor into the budget.
    • Cost of materials. This is an important factor of your general contractor services project budget. You can purchase materials yourself, but remember that your general contractor professional maybe be able to leverage relationships with other companies to save on material costs.
    • Company ratings: Highly-rated general contractors tend to be more expensive. Decide what balance between ratings and cost is right for you.

    As always, every project is different and you should contact multiple general contractors throughout Ephrata to ensure your project is done right.

    My General Contractor Services project in Ephrata is really small. How much should I expect to spend?

    The lowest price we could find for general contractor services work in Ephrata is about $0.00. You should expect to pay at least this much depending on the scope of your project.

    General Contractor work at this level can sometimes involve several steps or phases. Cost for every project will differ depending on the quality of General Contractor you hire, the type of materials required and the timeframe that you want to finish within.

    All General Contractors in Ephrata, PA

    Porch Pro Headshot Vatter Construction, LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    Contractors tend to have the same reputation as a used car salesman. We provide the personal interaction and guidance needed in the design process so that when the construction process begins, the project runs smooth and on budget. From design to final walk through, we are here for you.
    Contractors tend to have the same reputation as a used car salesman. We provide the personal interaction and guidance needed in the design process so that when the construction process begins, the project runs smooth and on budget. From design to final walk through, we are here for you.
    Porch Pro Headshot Hometown Waterproofing Llc.
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    Hometown strives to provide a permanent solution to your foundation repair needs. We offer lifetime/transferrable warranties on our waterproofing system. We also do foundation repair and mold testing. Hometown offers free inspections and detailed estimates.
    Hometown strives to provide a permanent solution to your foundation repair needs. We offer lifetime/transferrable warranties on our waterproofing system. We also do foundation repair and mold testing. Hometown offers free inspections and detailed estimates.
    Porch Pro Headshot Creative Gazeobs
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, 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 Sell Construction Group, LLC.
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    We are a small but solid General Contracting company based in Walnutport, PA 18088. We handle every aspect of your project so no need to have multiple contractors to keep up with.
    We are a small but solid General Contracting company based in Walnutport, PA 18088. We handle every aspect of your project so no need to have multiple contractors to keep up with.
    Porch Pro Headshot Peters Handyman Services
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    (3)
    For drywall repairs that will last, call the professionals at Peters Handyman Services in Aspen Hill.
    For drywall repairs that will last, call the professionals at Peters Handyman Services in Aspen Hill.
    Porch Pro Headshot Garrett Renovations LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    You can find out more info on our website or follow us on facebook to see what we are up to!
    You can find out more info on our website or follow us on facebook to see what we are up to!
    Porch Pro Headshot Durawood
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    Durawood Products is a manufacturer of quality wood stairs and components of all types and species. We are committed to maintaining the shortest and most consistent lead times in the industry. We provide quality pre-assembled rail, wood stairs, treads & risers and stair parts.
    Durawood Products is a manufacturer of quality wood stairs and components of all types and species. We are committed to maintaining the shortest and most consistent lead times in the industry. We provide quality pre-assembled rail, wood stairs, treads & risers and stair parts.
    Porch Pro Headshot B-Squared Contractors
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    Whether you're looking to install or maintain the siding on your home, B-Squared Contractors in Butlertown is there to provide excellent vinyl siding services.
    Whether you're looking to install or maintain the siding on your home, B-Squared Contractors in Butlertown is there to provide excellent vinyl siding services.
    Porch Pro Headshot Althouse Exteriors
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, 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 J. Ullman Carpentry
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    Design, build, and renovate homes in Chester county and surrounding areas since 1985. Unique outdoor structures, kitchens, bathrooms, decks, window and doors.
    Design, build, and renovate homes in Chester county and surrounding areas since 1985. Unique outdoor structures, kitchens, bathrooms, decks, window and doors.
    Porch Pro Headshot JD Contracting
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    Porch Pro Headshot Robert Baney
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    30 Years Experience and over 500 custom projects Specializing in Custom New Home Construction Additions, In-Law Suites, All Seasons Rooms Basement Finishing, Remodeling Kitchen and Bath Remodels
    30 Years Experience and over 500 custom projects Specializing in Custom New Home Construction Additions, In-Law Suites, All Seasons Rooms Basement Finishing, Remodeling Kitchen and Bath Remodels
    Porch Pro Headshot Woodland Creek Construction LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Ephrata, Pennsylvania
    Woodland Creek Construction is a general contractor that offers storm shelter installation, bedroom remodeling, and renovation as well as other services. They are based in Oxford.
    Woodland Creek Construction is a general contractor that offers storm shelter installation, bedroom remodeling, and renovation as well as other services. They are based in Oxford.

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