Top 10 General Contractors in Oakland, CA

Porch Pro Headshot Hometelligent Inc
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(148)
"Silvio and his crew are amazing. This was my first remodel project and I had a lot of questions, which they patiently answered. They never “took” the project over. Instead they gave me several options and respected my decisions. All the team were professional, courteous and punctual. (Silvio of...Read more about Hometelligent Inc
"Silvio and his crew are amazing. This was my first remodel project and I had a lot of questions, which they patiently answered. They never “took” the project over. Instead they gave me several options and respected my decisions. All the team were professional, courteous and punctual. (Silvio of...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 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 Varga Construction
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Varga Construction is a Bay Area premier construction service specializing in all aspects of Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen and Bathroom Design, Decks, Home Maintenance, New Construction, Custom Furniture and Cabinetry. We are dedicated to serving Northern California homes, offices and commercial re...Read more about Varga Construction
Varga Construction is a Bay Area premier construction service specializing in all aspects of Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen and Bathroom Design, Decks, Home Maintenance, New Construction, Custom Furniture and Cabinetry. We are dedicated to serving Northern California homes, offices and commercial re...Read more about Varga Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Badal's Construction Co Inc
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
We have been in Business for over 25 years. We have been an active member of the Better Business Bureau since 1992 with a A+ rating. We are affiliated with Master Builders for over 10 years. Our company was featured in 110 degree Magazine in June and July of 2004. When you hire Badal's Construction ...Read more about Badal's Construction Co Inc
We have been in Business for over 25 years. We have been an active member of the Better Business Bureau since 1992 with a A+ rating. We are affiliated with Master Builders for over 10 years. Our company was featured in 110 degree Magazine in June and July of 2004. When you hire Badal's Construction ...Read more about Badal's Construction Co Inc
Porch Pro Headshot Kena & Sons Construction
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
We are a family business with a whole lot of passion and pride in our work. Fair in pricing, knowledge on how to do the job upto code and well experienced on the field. I have Plenty of references. We are licensed, Bonded and Insured.
We are a family business with a whole lot of passion and pride in our work. Fair in pricing, knowledge on how to do the job upto code and well experienced on the field. I have Plenty of references. We are licensed, Bonded and Insured.
Porch Pro Headshot HUSHER CONSTRUCTION
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(1)
HUSHER CONSTRUCTION ​ We are a full service Residential and Commercial General Building Contractor serving the San Francisco Bay Area. For over 40 years, our company has been built on many years of experience and our commitment to client satisfaction. Our projects range in scope from new constructi...Read more about HUSHER CONSTRUCTION
HUSHER CONSTRUCTION ​ We are a full service Residential and Commercial General Building Contractor serving the San Francisco Bay Area. For over 40 years, our company has been built on many years of experience and our commitment to client satisfaction. Our projects range in scope from new constructi...Read more about HUSHER CONSTRUCTION
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
Porch Pro Headshot Angel Garage Door Repair San Leandro
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(2)
Garage Door Repair San Leandro (510) 356-2924 | Gate Repair San Leandro (510) 356-2924 GARAGE DOOR REPAIR and GATE REPAIR Commercial * Residential * industrial Angel Garage Door Repair San Leandro 433 Callan Ave. #207, San Leandro, CA 94577 (510) 356-2924 http://www.angelgaragedoors.com/servi...Read more about Angel Garage Door Repair San Leandro
Garage Door Repair San Leandro (510) 356-2924 | Gate Repair San Leandro (510) 356-2924 GARAGE DOOR REPAIR and GATE REPAIR Commercial * Residential * industrial Angel Garage Door Repair San Leandro 433 Callan Ave. #207, San Leandro, CA 94577 (510) 356-2924 http://www.angelgaragedoors.com/servi...Read more about Angel Garage Door Repair San Leandro
Porch Pro Headshot California Building Solutions
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
(27)

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

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
712089

We had an old wooden garage door that was becoming harder to open. Zach installed a brand-new insulated steel door, making our garage much more energy-efficient. The installation was seamless, and we’re thrilled with the upgrade!

- Octavio Elliott
712068

One of our garage door cables snapped, leaving the door crooked and stuck. Nick arrived quickly, replaced the damaged cable, and adjusted the tension for even movement. He also inspected the tracks and rollers to prevent future issues. The entire process ...

- Omar Williamson
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
74181

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 de...

- m_ schoenhals
58702

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 de...

- M Schoenhals

Everything You Need to Know About Oakland General Contractors

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.

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

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.

All General Contractors in Oakland, CA

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 Total Quality Management Construction (TQM Construction)
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Total Quality Management Construction(TQM) is a leading S.F. General Contractor. TQM Construction is based on the principles of Total Quality Management. We provide the right team, exceptional service, and quality results. Commitment to sustainability and green building. We work with out clients fro...Read more about Total Quality Management Construction (TQM Construction)
Total Quality Management Construction(TQM) is a leading S.F. General Contractor. TQM Construction is based on the principles of Total Quality Management. We provide the right team, exceptional service, and quality results. Commitment to sustainability and green building. We work with out clients fro...Read more about Total Quality Management Construction (TQM Construction)
Porch Pro Headshot Garage Door Seal CA
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
We offer sales and repair service for residential and commercial garage doors and electric openers. Same day overhead garage door repairs service in Oakland, CA.
We offer sales and repair service for residential and commercial garage doors and electric openers. Same day overhead garage door repairs service in Oakland, CA.
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 Rockridge Builders
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Porch Pro Headshot C&c development
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Porch Pro Headshot Accent Builder Inc
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Porch Pro Headshot Jpgeneral engineering
General Contractors
Serves Oakland, California
Porch Pro Headshot Teo's Construction
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