Top 10 General Contractors in Lake Forest, CA

Porch Pro Headshot Sea Pointe Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(368)
For more than 26 years, Sea Pointe Construction has been offering Design + Build construction services throughout Orange County specializing in residential remodeling including additions, kitchens and bathrooms. We help clients, like you, take your blue sky concepts and turn them into your dream rem...Read more about Sea Pointe Construction
For more than 26 years, Sea Pointe Construction has been offering Design + Build construction services throughout Orange County specializing in residential remodeling including additions, kitchens and bathrooms. We help clients, like you, take your blue sky concepts and turn them into your dream rem...Read more about Sea Pointe Construction
Porch Pro Headshot CHHS Inc
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(56)
"I am very happy I got in contact with Clear Horizon and had them to perform the work. Everything went very well, no surprises there. Quality work, everything left tidy every day, just as we knew it would be.Very professional and experienced. They went above and beyond to make the project work. We w...Read more about CHHS Inc
"I am very happy I got in contact with Clear Horizon and had them to perform the work. Everything went very well, no surprises there. Quality work, everything left tidy every day, just as we knew it would be.Very professional and experienced. They went above and beyond to make the project work. We w...Read more about CHHS Inc
Porch Pro Headshot La Placa Construction, Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(33)
La Placa Construction, Inc. is one of the most trusted names in the California's construction industry. Since 1986, we have created an enduring tradition of exceptional quality, consumer confidence, sharp foresight and integrity at every level. It's only natural that we treat our clients and custo...Read more about La Placa Construction, Inc.
La Placa Construction, Inc. is one of the most trusted names in the California's construction industry. Since 1986, we have created an enduring tradition of exceptional quality, consumer confidence, sharp foresight and integrity at every level. It's only natural that we treat our clients and custo...Read more about La Placa Construction, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Sterling Construction Co.
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(19)
"Parker + McQueen is the best. PERIOD. If I could give this business 10 stars I would. My review is a few months late (sorry guys), but better late than never! Where to begin!!!! So much to type :) My hubbs and I contacted many contractors about remodeling the outside of our home and fixing the...Read more about Sterling Construction Co.
"Parker + McQueen is the best. PERIOD. If I could give this business 10 stars I would. My review is a few months late (sorry guys), but better late than never! Where to begin!!!! So much to type :) My hubbs and I contacted many contractors about remodeling the outside of our home and fixing the...Read more about Sterling Construction Co.
Porch Pro Headshot Caraveli Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(6)
"They are right on time when you need a quote. Very polite and respectful. Once a project is started they are very conscience and pay attention to the details right to the end. I would highly recommend this company to do any work on my properties! LYL - Trabuco Canyon home owner"
"They are right on time when you need a quote. Very polite and respectful. Once a project is started they are very conscience and pay attention to the details right to the end. I would highly recommend this company to do any work on my properties! LYL - Trabuco Canyon home owner"
Porch Pro Headshot PREMIER DEVELOPING SERVICES INC
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(4)
Premier Developing Services, Inc. General Contractors out of Rowland Heights Ca. We specialize in residential and light commercial projects. All of our work is done in-house, no subcontracting. Concrete, Stone, Walls, Pavers, Canopies, Additions, Remodels, Flooring, Framing, Drywall, Roofing, Plumbi...Read more about PREMIER DEVELOPING SERVICES INC
Premier Developing Services, Inc. General Contractors out of Rowland Heights Ca. We specialize in residential and light commercial projects. All of our work is done in-house, no subcontracting. Concrete, Stone, Walls, Pavers, Canopies, Additions, Remodels, Flooring, Framing, Drywall, Roofing, Plumbi...Read more about PREMIER DEVELOPING SERVICES INC
Porch Pro Headshot Epic Interiors and Construction Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(56)
Epic Interiors and Construction Inc, has been in business since 2008, we are a General Contractor Specializing in Kitchen Remodels, Bathroom Remodels, Flooring Installation and Water Damage Repair In Orange County, CA. Epic Interiors and Construction Inc. prides itself on its relationship with the h...Read more about Epic Interiors and Construction Inc.
Epic Interiors and Construction Inc, has been in business since 2008, we are a General Contractor Specializing in Kitchen Remodels, Bathroom Remodels, Flooring Installation and Water Damage Repair In Orange County, CA. Epic Interiors and Construction Inc. prides itself on its relationship with the h...Read more about Epic Interiors and Construction Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Opulent Design Build
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(8)
OPULENT DESIGN BUILD IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION FIRM. We provide the knowledge, experience, purchasing power and financial stability to make your dream a reality. FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION: We take the complicated process of home building and remodeling and make it an experience y...Read more about Opulent Design Build
OPULENT DESIGN BUILD IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION FIRM. We provide the knowledge, experience, purchasing power and financial stability to make your dream a reality. FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION: We take the complicated process of home building and remodeling and make it an experience y...Read more about Opulent Design Build
Porch Pro Headshot CBR Contracting
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(69)
CBR Contracting Home Remodeling company Irvine Ca
CBR Contracting Home Remodeling company Irvine Ca
Porch Pro Headshot Arubbahs of Heaven Inc
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(9)
In the past 42 years as a licensed general contractor, I have built many types of projects for others as well as myself including: residential rental and for sale, dental offices, small strip centers, gas station, restaurants. My expertise covers all aspects of development and construction managemen...Read more about Arubbahs of Heaven Inc
In the past 42 years as a licensed general contractor, I have built many types of projects for others as well as myself including: residential rental and for sale, dental offices, small strip centers, gas station, restaurants. My expertise covers all aspects of development and construction managemen...Read more about Arubbahs of Heaven 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 Lake Forest General Contractors

56395

After 16-years, my wife and I finally made the decision to undertake a whole home remodel. After interviewing two previous contractors it was clear that they had their own vision for our remodel and didn't seem to hear our concerns. it was very off-putt...

- Dominic Montalbano
56272

I was recommended Eli through a friend and everything he said about Eli and his crew were spot on. Very happy with them and the finished product!

- Kim higa
37371

We had CE renovate our backyard landscaping. They were always on time, courteous, efficient, responsive.

62624

Had landscape, patio cover, concrete pad, inside drywall and lighting done. CE Contractors did an excellent job!! They were very professional and there work was neat and clean. They beat there deadlines and I would hire them again. If you're looking for a...

- Don Cone
223332

I'd heard good things about this company, so I was surprised by their complete ineptitude when it came to my project. Saul Palacio was assigned as my project manager and in a year, he was on my property perhaps 15 times. The contract consisted of a 600 sq...

- Debbie Britt
77768

Clear Horizon Home Solutions and the team who was managed and supervised by Roye just finished remodeling the master bathroom remodeling and we are pleased and happy with the end results of the new bathroom. We hired Roye and his company before on our ki...

- Jayson Sattel
78790

After a good research online and after talking to some of our friends, we came across this company. We scheduled a meeting with Joel to come over and see our bathroom and to give us some ideas on what to do and how to do it and mostly, how much will it co...

- Alberto Pavlovich
113911

Clear Horizon always had an outstanding reputation. They did a great job on my re-roofing, promptly responded to all my requests and answered my questions patiently. A+ service and best of all, at a great price. Will definitely use them again and will r...

- Daniel Ramos
78993

We have worked with Clear Horizon Home Solutions in the past. This time we hired them on a project that included expanding the back of the house. The project included a new laundry room, 2 bathrooms and a new bedroom. We are happy with the work that they ...

- Robert Kolkey
165

Would recommend.

- steve perry
970

Would recommend.

- Paul Hicks
1418

Would recommend.

- Jill Ceren

Everything You Need to Know About Lake Forest General Contractors

Who are the best General Contractors in Lake Forest?

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

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

  • Expert Renovations & Repairs Inc
    • Location: Lake Forest
  • Construction Guaranteed Inc.
    • Location: Lake Forest
  • Camco Pacific Construction Company
    • Location: Lake Forest

How many general contractors does Lake Forest have?

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

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

What should I check for once my General Contractor in Lake Forest has finished working?

Every general contractor services project is going to have different results, but here are a few things to check for once any general contractor services company has told you they've finished the job:

  • Obviously you want to do a visual inspection. Even if you're unfamiliar with general contractor services work, this gives you the opportunity to ask questions (even basic ones like, what did you do?).
  • Ask the general contractor to describe what they did. Whether your general contractor services project was a repair job or a building job, have them run you through what was done.
  • Compare the description provided on your general contractor services project estimate to the work completed. Did the professional do what was promised?
  • Request that the general contractor do a follow-up visit to check on the work. Most professionals are willing to do this, especially if you ask them.

All General Contractors in Lake Forest, CA

Porch Pro Headshot Shell and Hill Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(5)
"Every project Paul/ Shell and Hill has ever done for us has been excellent. This is a contractor who shows up when they say they will, never leaves you hanging and does all the work right! Can't say enough good things about the integrity of the work and crew."
"Every project Paul/ Shell and Hill has ever done for us has been excellent. This is a contractor who shows up when they say they will, never leaves you hanging and does all the work right! Can't say enough good things about the integrity of the work and crew."
Porch Pro Headshot 24HRC
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
Trusted and established partners for the construction and improvement of your valued real estate. General Contractor serving all types of construction and properties including government, commercial, HOA, hospitality, office buildings, apartment complexes, residential, university facilities, retail...Read more about 24HRC
Trusted and established partners for the construction and improvement of your valued real estate. General Contractor serving all types of construction and properties including government, commercial, HOA, hospitality, office buildings, apartment complexes, residential, university facilities, retail...Read more about 24HRC
Porch Pro Headshot Big Lake Forest Garage Door Repair
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
Lake Forest Garage Door Repair (855) 491-1748 | Gate Repair Lake Forest (855) 491-1748 GARAGE DOOR REPAIR GATE REPAIR Commercial * Residential * industrial Big Lake Forest Garage Door Repair 25431 Trabuco Road # 4 Lake Forest, CA 92630 (855) 491-1748 http://www.usbestgates.com Garage Door Repa...Read more about Big Lake Forest Garage Door Repair
Lake Forest Garage Door Repair (855) 491-1748 | Gate Repair Lake Forest (855) 491-1748 GARAGE DOOR REPAIR GATE REPAIR Commercial * Residential * industrial Big Lake Forest Garage Door Repair 25431 Trabuco Road # 4 Lake Forest, CA 92630 (855) 491-1748 http://www.usbestgates.com Garage Door Repa...Read more about Big Lake Forest Garage Door Repair
Porch Pro Headshot MacKenzie Corporation
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
MacKenzie Corporation is a family run business with its founder’s twin daughters now at the helm of the organization – jointly leading the company through a strategic, operational and cultural shift. While the company mission remains the same [found here], advanced technology and refined processes h...Read more about MacKenzie Corporation
MacKenzie Corporation is a family run business with its founder’s twin daughters now at the helm of the organization – jointly leading the company through a strategic, operational and cultural shift. While the company mission remains the same [found here], advanced technology and refined processes h...Read more about MacKenzie Corporation
Porch Pro Headshot Garage Door Repair Lake Forest
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
Garage door repair Lake Forest (949) 274-8382 http://www.garagedoorrepairorange.com/LakeForest-garage-door-services.html | Garage door repair Lake Forest (949) 274-8382 GARAGE DOOR REPAIR GARAGE DOOR REPAIR Commercial * Residential * industrial Garage Door Repair Lake Forest 17 Spectrum Pointe Dr...Read more about Garage Door Repair Lake Forest
Garage door repair Lake Forest (949) 274-8382 http://www.garagedoorrepairorange.com/LakeForest-garage-door-services.html | Garage door repair Lake Forest (949) 274-8382 GARAGE DOOR REPAIR GARAGE DOOR REPAIR Commercial * Residential * industrial Garage Door Repair Lake Forest 17 Spectrum Pointe Dr...Read more about Garage Door Repair Lake Forest
Porch Pro Headshot Randy's Repairs ( I FIX IT ALL )
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
For audio equipment repair and electronic repair services near Lake Forest, CA, 92630, call the most preferred provider - Randy's Repairs ( I FIX IT ALL ). Call (949) 238-0981 and get quality home stereo speaker repair beyond your expectations. Gadget Repair Service, Audio Visual Repair Service, Eme...Read more about Randy's Repairs ( I FIX IT ALL )
For audio equipment repair and electronic repair services near Lake Forest, CA, 92630, call the most preferred provider - Randy's Repairs ( I FIX IT ALL ). Call (949) 238-0981 and get quality home stereo speaker repair beyond your expectations. Gadget Repair Service, Audio Visual Repair Service, Eme...Read more about Randy's Repairs ( I FIX IT ALL )
Porch Pro Headshot R & D Medical Products
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
(2)
Porch Pro Headshot MY CARPET CLEANERS IN ORANGE COUNTY
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
Are your carpets at home look dirty? Do they possess unpleasant smell that's really irritating? Why not hire the carpet cleaning experts of MyCarpetCleanersinOrangeCounty to revitalize your old carpets? We have professional carpet cleaning services at fair rate tailored just for you.
Are your carpets at home look dirty? Do they possess unpleasant smell that's really irritating? Why not hire the carpet cleaning experts of MyCarpetCleanersinOrangeCounty to revitalize your old carpets? We have professional carpet cleaning services at fair rate tailored just for you.
Porch Pro Headshot Simpson General Building Contractor
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
Porch Pro Headshot E. L. Seifert - General Contractor
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
E. L. Seifert - General Contractor is a licensed construction company located in Mission Viejo. They provide residential remodeling, renovation and remediation construction services. E. L. "Red" Seifert - General Contractor is licensed by the state of California, and is certified as a Lead-Safe Firm...Read more about E. L. Seifert - General Contractor
E. L. Seifert - General Contractor is a licensed construction company located in Mission Viejo. They provide residential remodeling, renovation and remediation construction services. E. L. "Red" Seifert - General Contractor is licensed by the state of California, and is certified as a Lead-Safe Firm...Read more about E. L. Seifert - General Contractor
Porch Pro Headshot Mendez Home Improvements
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
Porch Pro Headshot STEVE MC CUNE CONSTRUCTION
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California
Steve MC Cune Construction is a home building specialist based out of Lake Forest. They provide green construction, wine cellar design and more.
Steve MC Cune Construction is a home building specialist based out of Lake Forest. They provide green construction, wine cellar design and more.
Porch Pro Headshot Sandore Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lake Forest, California

Latest projects near Lake Forest

Recent projects booked on Porch
Irvine 92618
Residential Building
Start Date
I'm flexible
Project type
Something else
Residential building project type
looks for design and choose project
Extent of design prep work
Yes, I have sketches and a basic idea of what I want