Top 10 General Contractors in Lakeside, CA

Porch Pro Headshot Home improvement projects
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
Since our founding in 2012, Home Improvement Projects Inc has operated with strong values aimed at understanding and serving families needs. To us, every new project means a new friendship. The information we learn from this open communication model allows us to deliver excellent results. Get in tou...Read more about Home improvement projects
100% response rate
Since our founding in 2012, Home Improvement Projects Inc has operated with strong values aimed at understanding and serving families needs. To us, every new project means a new friendship. The information we learn from this open communication model allows us to deliver excellent results. Get in tou...Read more about Home improvement projects
Porch Pro Headshot Bill Howe Restoration & Flood Services, Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(3,375)
"Children's Primary Care Medical Group La Costa has had a few floods in our suite. Floors and walls were damaged. Like quick responders they were out to our suite and quickly the repairs. Everyone that we have worked with so far are Great!!"
"Children's Primary Care Medical Group La Costa has had a few floods in our suite. Floors and walls were damaged. Like quick responders they were out to our suite and quickly the repairs. Everyone that we have worked with so far are Great!!"
Porch Pro Headshot Anderson Design Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(113)
At Anderson Kitchen/Bath Cabinets Design, Inc., our mission is to provide the highest -quality craftsmanship, finest materials, and outstanding service to our customers. We offer the full range of exterior, kitchen and bathroom remodeling services! We become partners with our customers. We listen to...Read more about Anderson Design Inc.
At Anderson Kitchen/Bath Cabinets Design, Inc., our mission is to provide the highest -quality craftsmanship, finest materials, and outstanding service to our customers. We offer the full range of exterior, kitchen and bathroom remodeling services! We become partners with our customers. We listen to...Read more about Anderson Design Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Need for Build Inc
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(72)
"We researched many companies before hiring need for build to redo our landscape project. Even though I had better quotes in terms of cost, I felt comfortable with their knowledge and professionalism to finally execute the work. From start to finish everything was a smooth ride! No cutting corners, ...Read more about Need for Build Inc
"We researched many companies before hiring need for build to redo our landscape project. Even though I had better quotes in terms of cost, I felt comfortable with their knowledge and professionalism to finally execute the work. From start to finish everything was a smooth ride! No cutting corners, ...Read more about Need for Build Inc
Porch Pro Headshot Lyvayko Bathroom Systems
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(43)
"Lyvayko Bathroom Systems (Mike) assisted me with a remote bathroom remodel for my elderly mother where I was in Maryland and he was completing the work in Escondido, CA. My mother needed a curbless shower with built in bench, hand rails and wheelchair accessibility. He worked with me and my mothe...Read more about Lyvayko Bathroom Systems
"Lyvayko Bathroom Systems (Mike) assisted me with a remote bathroom remodel for my elderly mother where I was in Maryland and he was completing the work in Escondido, CA. My mother needed a curbless shower with built in bench, hand rails and wheelchair accessibility. He worked with me and my mothe...Read more about Lyvayko Bathroom Systems
Porch Pro Headshot Divine Home Remodeling
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(113)
Divine Home Remodeling is a family-owned, licensed, bonded and insured construction company, founded 10 years ago in San Diego.
Divine Home Remodeling is a family-owned, licensed, bonded and insured construction company, founded 10 years ago in San Diego.
Porch Pro Headshot AR Engineering Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(20)
We have over 25 years in the residential and commercial construction industry. We specialize in foundation and structural repairs. We not only repair broken foundations, we assess homes for earthquake 'preparedness' and retrofit for safety in the event of an earthquake. Our additional services inc...Read more about AR Engineering Construction
We have over 25 years in the residential and commercial construction industry. We specialize in foundation and structural repairs. We not only repair broken foundations, we assess homes for earthquake 'preparedness' and retrofit for safety in the event of an earthquake. Our additional services inc...Read more about AR Engineering Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Banning & Son
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(28)
"I had a wonderful experience working Banning and Son Construction after my bathroom water leak caused flooding. Bruce and his team came in and took care of everything including electrical, plumbing, tiling, and reconstructing my bathroom. They protected my flooring from my entryway all the way t...Read more about Banning & Son
"I had a wonderful experience working Banning and Son Construction after my bathroom water leak caused flooding. Bruce and his team came in and took care of everything including electrical, plumbing, tiling, and reconstructing my bathroom. They protected my flooring from my entryway all the way t...Read more about Banning & Son
Porch Pro Headshot Morgan Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(11)
Searching for a construction company that does it all? Whether its a simple renovation or a full custom job, Morgan Construction is right for you. We tackle each job, small or large, with the same professionalism , expertise and integrity. Our goal is to meet the needs of our clients each and every ...Read more about Morgan Construction
Searching for a construction company that does it all? Whether its a simple renovation or a full custom job, Morgan Construction is right for you. We tackle each job, small or large, with the same professionalism , expertise and integrity. Our goal is to meet the needs of our clients each and every ...Read more about Morgan Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Harvest Home Improvements
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(9)
A family-owned and operated remodeling service Helping home owners achieve greater satisfaction and comfort at home through custom kitchen & bath designs. Updating your kitchen or bathrooms adds beauty and increases the value of your home. Home owners who invested in a mid-range kitchen remodeling...Read more about Harvest Home Improvements
A family-owned and operated remodeling service Helping home owners achieve greater satisfaction and comfort at home through custom kitchen & bath designs. Updating your kitchen or bathrooms adds beauty and increases the value of your home. Home owners who invested in a mid-range kitchen remodeling...Read more about Harvest Home Improvements

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 Lakeside General Contractors

358423

Terrible, Horiffic Service. Do NOT use this company NO MATTER WHAT!!!! This company has caused so much unnecessary pain and anxiety in our family. We hired them because of a leak we noticed downstairs. For an entire YEAR, yes an entire year, their lack ...

- Cindy Piner
97643

Outstanding service! i'm in love with my new beautiful kitchen!!!

- Iair Oren
49702
92676

My experience with Michael was nothing but Good & Professional. His father is very meticulous at tile setting. I had three bathrooms completely remodeled by another company, who's workmanship was substandard, Michael came in, demolished it all, and co...

- Debbie Wescott
95260

Got engineered hardwoodfloor installed. It took me a long time to find the right colour and price range. Michael had alot of patience. Him and his dad did a nice job. Looks great!

- Ursula Heintz
29427

Excellent service, Good installation, very reasonable price. What else can you ask for? Definitely recommend for any jobs. Matter of fact, we need to get on the schedule for a small job.

- Danyel Chu
29330

I have worked with MJMR for approximately five years. They are polite, professional, knowledgeable and provide top quality craftsmanship. I am fortunate to have this company as part of my sub-based team!

- Dawn Nelson
142410

If you are looking for an honest, trusted, kitchen and bath remodeling, look no further! LYVAYKO, a family owned company who are the best at what they do! They are welcoming and friendly. Listens to what ideas you may have and turning it into Reality. Mic...

- Bing Sokanthong
104502

Michael is very good at managing projects, keeping things on track, and finishing the work when he says it will be done. He also provides a detailed quote which is super helpful. And he strives to make sure you are completely statisfied with the job compl...

- Charity Bracy
95761

Michael and Michael did the floor for my entire first floor and all the bathrooms, laundry room upstairs. They paid attention to details and completed the job in timely manner.

- Jane Nguyen
174872

Michael and his family remodeled our master bathroom in our downtown high rise condo. We could not be more pleased with the work they did. Throughout the remodel Michael was always professional, on time, and available for questions. Similarly, his workers...

- Mike Lepore
123239

Michael and his team were very friendly and professional and did the most wonderful job in our new bathroom! Very affordable, clean and proficient and the remodel they did truly brightened up our home ! We highly recommend Lyvayko Bathroom Systems for any...

- Joe Lynch

Everything You Need to Know About Lakeside General Contractors

Can I browse unscreened General Contractors in Lakeside?

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

  • KING MAHDI BUILDERS INC.:
    • Active/Verified License: Yes, Current Status is Active
  • SoCal Construction & Design:
    • BBB Rating: A+
    • Active/Verified License: No, current status is inactive
  • Chad M Hoh:
    • BBB Rating: A+
    • Active/Verified License: No, current status is inactive

How does invoicing/payment work for most General Contractor projects in Lakeside?

Every project differs, but you should ask any general contractor for an estimate, before they do any work. In fact, ask for their general payment terms before any general contractor services work is done.

If the job is large and going to take longer than a day, it's common practice for general contractors to request a down payment. Usually, this will be around 25% so they can commence work on your general contractor project.

If it's a quick job, you'll likely be given an invoice/bill when the job is complete. Then it's up to you and the general contractor to determine if you pay immediately or can send payment at a later date.

What should I check for once my General Contractor in Lakeside 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 Lakeside, CA

Porch Pro Headshot BRIAN THOMAS CONSULTING INC.
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(9)
"Brian Thomas did remodeling on our house in Fallbrook on various occasions from 2018-2020. Very honest, reliable, and pricing was competitive. Always kept us updated on issues that arose due to unlicensed work by the prior owner. I wish we were able to find someone we could trust where we live now,...Read more about BRIAN THOMAS CONSULTING INC.
"Brian Thomas did remodeling on our house in Fallbrook on various occasions from 2018-2020. Very honest, reliable, and pricing was competitive. Always kept us updated on issues that arose due to unlicensed work by the prior owner. I wish we were able to find someone we could trust where we live now,...Read more about BRIAN THOMAS CONSULTING INC.
Porch Pro Headshot Jordan Mobile Home Service Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(29)
Established in 1984 by Dave Jordan, Jordan Mobile Home Service Inc has been serving San Diego County for over 25 years now. Dave's two sons Josh and Jim now handle the service side, While Dave can be found using his years of experience with manufactured and mobile homes doing Health and Safety Inspe...Read more about Jordan Mobile Home Service Inc.
Established in 1984 by Dave Jordan, Jordan Mobile Home Service Inc has been serving San Diego County for over 25 years now. Dave's two sons Josh and Jim now handle the service side, While Dave can be found using his years of experience with manufactured and mobile homes doing Health and Safety Inspe...Read more about Jordan Mobile Home Service Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Crawford Contracting
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
(22)
Crawford Contracting .in Business 33 years....Licensed Bonded insured. Most all phases of construction...Porches...Decks...Patio covers.... Patio Rooms (aluminum and wood) Vinyl windows..Concrete ...walls... roofing Etc... Residential....Mobile Home and commercial
Crawford Contracting .in Business 33 years....Licensed Bonded insured. Most all phases of construction...Porches...Decks...Patio covers.... Patio Rooms (aluminum and wood) Vinyl windows..Concrete ...walls... roofing Etc... Residential....Mobile Home and commercial
Porch Pro Headshot American Development Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
American Development Construction National City, CA, 91950 (619) 259-7991 Our construction company prides itself on maintaining clean work environments and completing tasks in the most efficient manner available. Our goal as a company is to provide an ever-increasing scope of service solutions t...Read more about American Development Construction
American Development Construction National City, CA, 91950 (619) 259-7991 Our construction company prides itself on maintaining clean work environments and completing tasks in the most efficient manner available. Our goal as a company is to provide an ever-increasing scope of service solutions t...Read more about American Development Construction
Porch Pro Headshot DryFix Services & Contractor
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
DryFix Service is a General Contractor firm in Chula Vista CA. We provide remodeling and new construction services and more. DryFix Property Maintenance & Restoration is accredited by the BBB.
DryFix Service is a General Contractor firm in Chula Vista CA. We provide remodeling and new construction services and more. DryFix Property Maintenance & Restoration is accredited by the BBB.
Porch Pro Headshot GJ Landscaping
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
GJ Landscaping is a Landscaper in El Cajon, CA that offers Residential Landscaping, Commercial Landscaping, Irrigation, Fertilization, Mulching Flower Beds, Concrete Hardscaping and Synthetic Grass. Call us now for free estimates! Irrigation Bostonia, CA Mulching, Landscaping, Synthetic Grass, Comme...Read more about GJ Landscaping
GJ Landscaping is a Landscaper in El Cajon, CA that offers Residential Landscaping, Commercial Landscaping, Irrigation, Fertilization, Mulching Flower Beds, Concrete Hardscaping and Synthetic Grass. Call us now for free estimates! Irrigation Bostonia, CA Mulching, Landscaping, Synthetic Grass, Comme...Read more about GJ Landscaping
Porch Pro Headshot Opuland
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
Landscape maintenance. Includes mowing hedging,trimming, irrigation and planting
Landscape maintenance. Includes mowing hedging,trimming, irrigation and planting
Porch Pro Headshot Next Generation Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
Porch Pro Headshot Heath Farrell Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
I don't offer any of the other services shown below, I am just unable to remove them from the listing. Heath Farrell Construction is a general contractor that focuses on problems associated with the wood windows of older homes. Repairs, installations of new wood sash in existing openings, re-roping...Read more about Heath Farrell Construction
I don't offer any of the other services shown below, I am just unable to remove them from the listing. Heath Farrell Construction is a general contractor that focuses on problems associated with the wood windows of older homes. Repairs, installations of new wood sash in existing openings, re-roping...Read more about Heath Farrell Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Castle Construction Services Inc
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California
A-1 Current Electric, located in Lakeside, is a general contractor that provides kitchen remodeling, garage construction, and exterior remodeling as well as other services.
A-1 Current Electric, located in Lakeside, is a general contractor that provides kitchen remodeling, garage construction, and exterior remodeling as well as other services.
Porch Pro Headshot Unden Construction
General Contractors
Serves Lakeside, California