Top 10 General Contractors in Oakland, CA

Porch Pro Headshot Hometelligent Inc
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(148)
"Highly recommend Hometelligent! Silvio and his team converted a dated 70’s downstairs office and adjacent bathroom into a new bedroom and ADA bathroom for my parents so they could age in place. Attention to detail was key to this project given that ADA design has precise parameters. He and his team...Read more about Hometelligent Inc
"Highly recommend Hometelligent! Silvio and his team converted a dated 70’s downstairs office and adjacent bathroom into a new bedroom and ADA bathroom for my parents so they could age in place. Attention to detail was key to this project given that ADA design has precise parameters. He and his team...Read more about Hometelligent Inc
Porch Pro Headshot Pointvertex Construction
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(28)
Pointvertex Construction is a trusted home remodeling company proudly serving homeowners in Oakland. Our commitment is to deliver quality remodeling and improvement services that enhance your home's beauty, functionality, and value. With a focus on clear communication, skilled craftsmanship, and cli...Read more about Pointvertex Construction
Pointvertex Construction is a trusted home remodeling company proudly serving homeowners in Oakland. Our commitment is to deliver quality remodeling and improvement services that enhance your home's beauty, functionality, and value. With a focus on clear communication, skilled craftsmanship, and cli...Read more about Pointvertex Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Simple Builders
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(24)
Hi there, my name is Gil and i'm the owner of Simple Builders. Construction in the east bay & peninsula can be some times a headache for you as a home owner, prices are high and it's not easy to find good people to do the work for you professionally. That's why I called my company Simple Builders, k...Read more about Simple Builders
Hi there, my name is Gil and i'm the owner of Simple Builders. Construction in the east bay & peninsula can be some times a headache for you as a home owner, prices are high and it's not easy to find good people to do the work for you professionally. That's why I called my company Simple Builders, k...Read more about Simple Builders
Porch Pro Headshot Jz Construction
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(64)
Jz Construction is located in Oakland area and specializes in new home construction and remodeling.
Jz Construction is located in Oakland area and specializes in new home construction and remodeling.
Porch Pro Headshot Best Home Remodeling
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(49)
General Contractor specializing in major renovations, kitchen and bathroom remodels, Room additions, In-law units,garage, Interior/exterior painting, Windows and doors, Foundation and concrete work, Earthquake Retrofit. Haim Zonnenchin began his career as a young handy man over two decades ago and ...Read more about Best Home Remodeling
General Contractor specializing in major renovations, kitchen and bathroom remodels, Room additions, In-law units,garage, Interior/exterior painting, Windows and doors, Foundation and concrete work, Earthquake Retrofit. Haim Zonnenchin began his career as a young handy man over two decades ago and ...Read more about Best Home Remodeling
Porch Pro Headshot Citadel PG
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(4)
We are a licensed full service renovation and development firm serving the Bay Area! We have a true passion for our craft of building and renovating new spaces in a creative, efficient and cost effective way. This is what has earned us a great reputation as we service our customers with extreme atte...Read more about Citadel PG
We are a licensed full service renovation and development firm serving the Bay Area! We have a true passion for our craft of building and renovating new spaces in a creative, efficient and cost effective way. This is what has earned us a great reputation as we service our customers with extreme atte...Read more about Citadel PG
Porch Pro Headshot Greentech Industry Inc
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
G.T.I, Inc has been offering general contracting services to the San Francisco Bay Area and all surrounding counties since 1989. We are specialize in all kinds of Commercial and Residential Construction Work. You can view our full list of services under the Services Menu. With over 20 years experien...Read more about Greentech Industry Inc
G.T.I, Inc has been offering general contracting services to the San Francisco Bay Area and all surrounding counties since 1989. We are specialize in all kinds of Commercial and Residential Construction Work. You can view our full list of services under the Services Menu. With over 20 years experien...Read more about Greentech Industry Inc
Porch Pro Headshot HALS CARPET & VINYL
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(83)
We provide quality service from our family owned and operated business since 1931, same location. We offer in stock special at sometimes below dealer's cost products. We are a licensed C-15 flooring contractor. We sell and install carpet, vinyl, wood, laminate, LVT, VCT, SDI, and Marmoleum. We have...Read more about HALS CARPET & VINYL
We provide quality service from our family owned and operated business since 1931, same location. We offer in stock special at sometimes below dealer's cost products. We are a licensed C-15 flooring contractor. We sell and install carpet, vinyl, wood, laminate, LVT, VCT, SDI, and Marmoleum. We have...Read more about HALS CARPET & VINYL
Porch Pro Headshot Nation Remodeling Corp
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(9)
Email:nationremodelingcorp@gmail.com
Email:nationremodelingcorp@gmail.com
Porch Pro Headshot Angel Garage Door Repair Alameda
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(2)
"Our garage door was getting stuck halfway every time we tried to close it. Mark arrived quickly, inspected the tracks, and found that a bent rail was causing the issue. He carefully adjusted it, lubricated the rollers, and now the door moves smoothly again. He even performed a quick safety check to...Read more about Angel Garage Door Repair Alameda
"Our garage door was getting stuck halfway every time we tried to close it. Mark arrived quickly, inspected the tracks, and found that a bent rail was causing the issue. He carefully adjusted it, lubricated the rollers, and now the door moves smoothly again. He even performed a quick safety check to...Read more about Angel Garage Door Repair Alameda

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 Oakland General Contractors

255483

During this life changing shelter in place I discovered I had two MAJOR shower leaks in both downstairs bathrooms. Having a blind son, that was a major problem as he is accustomed to having full access to his own bathroom. I would recommend Simple Build...

- Sherry Lott
112755

I contacted Edgar to replace a front door and to replace some decking boards. We will use him again for future projects and will recommend to my friends.

- Lou Leal
712080

We woke up to find that our garage door was stuck open and wouldn’t budge. Alex inspected the opener and found that the motor had overheated. He replaced the damaged part, tested the system, and now our garage door opens and closes effortlessly again!

- Dario Ruiz
222310

JZ Construction is one of the worst contractors I have dealt with, they were hired thru my property management company(LC PM Inc) , who themselves are thieves and committed crime by renting my house to drug dealers , it seems all the invoices prepared by ...

- sash gupta
73193

We just finished a bathroom/living room remodel with Nation remodeling, and we are so very happy. Shay and team were great to work with. They listened to our wants and needs and came though with everything we asked for. The most impressive part of workin...

- raina goldenberg
73191

I had the best experience with those guys! They did my new Kitchen and I can't be happier with the result (and the way). For the entire remodeling time, the work was done professionally and with great consideration with my needs. They did a clean job and ...

- Sharon Bamani
363248

My girlfriend contracted this company to do our driveway and walkway in addition to other work but after reading J T’s review I don’t want him to continue doing any more work. J T, I would really like to talk to you. Can you tell me how I can get in to...

- Stephen Barba
374450

Update: Do not engage or hire they have a suspended license! Furthermore I saw some bad reviews on here 3 weeks ago but apparently Porch will remove them for a fee I assume so def won't ever us this site or trust them. After digging deep into Simi who is...

- Masi Quorayshi
385073

Update: Do not engage or hire they have a suspended license! Furthermore I saw some bad reviews on here 6 weeks ago and posted my own 3 weeks but apparently Porch will remove them for a fee I assume so def won't ever us this site or trust them. Just looki...

- Masi Quorayshi
355248

HORRIBLE services. Simi talks to you like he's proffesional but he just sits around all day with his kid playing around on the job site. No masks were worn and they order lunch and leave all there garbage everywhere and dont clean up after themselves. The...

- J T
304222
68604

Silvio was our contractor for a modest but in some ways complicated addition to our home of a bathroom and plus room. He did a great job in every way. Not only did he help us work through challenges along the way, like unusual drainage conditions and requ...

- Gregory Denny

Everything You Need to Know About Oakland General Contractors

I’m searching for General Contractors servicing my zip code in Oakland.

Many general contractors provide service to multiple zip codes in and around Oakland. Browse through a sample of the General Contractors in Oakland below to find the right professional in your area for your project. Remember to contact each of these professionals individually to ask about their prices, recent successful general contractor services jobs, how they bill, and what licenses or permits they have or will have to get for your job:

  • PRC Construction:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 94070
  • Ehline Construction Inc:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 94025
  • Al's Remodeling:
    • Service Area Zip Code: 94120

If you weren't able to find the right general contractor company that services your Oakland zip code, don't worry. Try contacting the company directly to ask them what surrounding areas they also service near Oakland.

Who are the best General Contractors in Oakland?

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

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

  • RS Construction Company
    • Location: Oakland
  • Nicely Done Home Improvement
    • Location: Oakland
  • Van General Construction
    • Location: Oakland

How many general contractors does Oakland have?

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

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

All General Contractors in Oakland, CA

Porch Pro Headshot California Building Solutions
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(27)
Porch Pro Headshot Lighthouse Construction Consultants
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Our business is our livelihood but it is also so much more. Lighthouse Construction Consultants was started to fill in a void in the current market and to make a business that people can place their trust in. Over the years we have never lost our commitment to our clients and that is what has allowe...Read more about Lighthouse Construction Consultants
Our business is our livelihood but it is also so much more. Lighthouse Construction Consultants was started to fill in a void in the current market and to make a business that people can place their trust in. Over the years we have never lost our commitment to our clients and that is what has allowe...Read more about Lighthouse Construction Consultants
Porch Pro Headshot Acme Builders Incorporated
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Acme Builders is a full service general contractor based in Oakland, CA. We are proud to bring New England Craftsmanship to the Bay area. We are not the cheapest contractors around, but not the most expensive, either. Acme does a lot of high end Kitchen remodels and do a lot of bathroom remodeling, ...Read more about Acme Builders Incorporated
Acme Builders is a full service general contractor based in Oakland, CA. We are proud to bring New England Craftsmanship to the Bay area. We are not the cheapest contractors around, but not the most expensive, either. Acme does a lot of high end Kitchen remodels and do a lot of bathroom remodeling, ...Read more about Acme Builders Incorporated
Porch Pro Headshot HUSHER CONSTRUCTION
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Middle D Construction is a remodeling specialist from South San Francisco. They provide bedroom remodeling, bathroom design and other services. In May of 1999, Middle D Construction did a remodeling project in the West Murphy neighborhood using a permit obtained from the city of Sunnyvale; in the sa...Read more about HUSHER CONSTRUCTION
Middle D Construction is a remodeling specialist from South San Francisco. They provide bedroom remodeling, bathroom design and other services. In May of 1999, Middle D Construction did a remodeling project in the West Murphy neighborhood using a permit obtained from the city of Sunnyvale; in the sa...Read more about HUSHER CONSTRUCTION
Porch Pro Headshot P&P Construction
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Porch Pro Headshot Affordable Fresh Coats Paint
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
About Us . Fresh Coats is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs and as a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals. We will stop at nothing to offer you the highest qua...Read more about Affordable Fresh Coats Paint
About Us . Fresh Coats is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs and as a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals. We will stop at nothing to offer you the highest qua...Read more about Affordable Fresh Coats Paint
Porch Pro Headshot Gamboa Construction
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Gamboa Construction is a Professional Construction Company, they offer Plumbing, Electrical, Drywall, Framing and Finish Carpentry, House Remodeling, Kitchens and Bathroom Remodeling for the people of Redwood City, CA. Professional Construction Service Contractor;Professional Home Builder Woodside, ...Read more about Gamboa Construction
Gamboa Construction is a Professional Construction Company, they offer Plumbing, Electrical, Drywall, Framing and Finish Carpentry, House Remodeling, Kitchens and Bathroom Remodeling for the people of Redwood City, CA. Professional Construction Service Contractor;Professional Home Builder Woodside, ...Read more about Gamboa Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Barrera Construction
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Barrera Construction, we build fences, decks. Remodel bathrooms, kitchens, room additions and general construction.
Barrera Construction, we build fences, decks. Remodel bathrooms, kitchens, room additions and general construction.
Porch Pro Headshot PACIFIC NORCAL BUILDERS
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(7)
Porch Pro Headshot D O C's Construction & Handyman Services
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
We are a General Contractor, fully licensed and insured for your protection. We do everything from kitchen remodels to room additions. Give us a call and we will win you over!
We are a General Contractor, fully licensed and insured for your protection. We do everything from kitchen remodels to room additions. Give us a call and we will win you over!
Porch Pro Headshot Rockridge Builders
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Porch Pro Headshot SAFETY CONSTRUCTION
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(2)
Porch Pro Headshot C&c development
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California

Latest projects near Oakland

Recent projects booked on Porch
San Leandro 94577
Residential Building
Start Date
Within a week
Project type
Something else
Residential building project type
Install 5 Large Moss Boulders each one from 1400 to 1900 lbs. Currently on pallets with a few feet of final placement. Full and easy access.
Extent of design prep work
Yes, I have professional drawings and plans
Castro Valley 94546
Pergola Construction
Start Date
I'm flexible
Outdoor structure project type
Assembly, installation or new construction
Outdoor structure type
Gazebo, arbor, trellis or pergola
Construction type
Pergola
Pergola area size
50-100 sq ft
Pergola construction material
Metal
Prefab or custom-built pergola
Prefab
Already bought pergola
Yes
Pergola to be installed on
Existing patio