Top 3 General Contractors in Portland, OR

Porch Pro Headshot ESP Painting
Featured

ESP Painting

(206)
"I have used ESP Painting several times over the years. I had them paint my mother in laws condo inside for sale and they did a great job (it sold in a tough real estate market at the time). ESP has painted the exterior of my home in the West Hills and it looks great. More recently they helped wit...Read more about ESP Painting
10208 SW Park Way, Portland, OR
503-372-7981
Porch Pro Headshot Evergreen Home Exteriors
We are a local family run general contractor. We specialize in home remodeling. We pride ourselves on our craftsmanship and customer service. We are highly rated across multiple pages.
11507 Steele St S, Tacoma, WA
253-320-5383
Porch Pro Headshot Craftsman Design & Renovation
Since 1996 Craftsman Design and Renovation has been renovating and restoring Portland homes. Our small company creates an intimate casual workflow from initial consult to project completion. Working within the Design/Build process CDR successfully infuses modern updates with your old-home characte...Read more about Craftsman Design & Renovation
1100 SE Grand Ave, Portland, OR
503-239-6200

More General Contractors in Portland, OR

Porch Pro Headshot MRI Construction Services
General Contractors
Serves Portland, Oregon
(25)
We are a local veteran and female owned small business with over 30 years of experience. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our craft. We offer a variety of services that are not your average handyman level skill set. MRI is a licensed, bonded and insured General Contractor in good sta...Read more about MRI Construction Services
We are a local veteran and female owned small business with over 30 years of experience. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our craft. We offer a variety of services that are not your average handyman level skill set. MRI is a licensed, bonded and insured General Contractor in good sta...Read more about MRI Construction Services
Porch Pro Headshot Big Jim's Home Repair
General Contractors
Serves Portland, Oregon
(21)
My name is James Merritt. As owner of Big Jim's Home Repair, I have over 20 years of experience in most aspects of construction and home repair services. My goal is to build, remodel, or fix your home so that the only reason you will call me back is to have me do another project for you or to give m...Read more about Big Jim's Home Repair
My name is James Merritt. As owner of Big Jim's Home Repair, I have over 20 years of experience in most aspects of construction and home repair services. My goal is to build, remodel, or fix your home so that the only reason you will call me back is to have me do another project for you or to give m...Read more about Big Jim's Home Repair
Porch Pro Headshot Taggarts Remodeling
General Contractors
Serves Portland, Oregon
(13)
I am the owner of a Local Portland Area general contracting business called Taggart's Remodeling. I have over 3 decades of experience in all phases of residential construction as well as project mgmt. Our service area includes the entire Portland Metro Area, however depending on the size of the ...Read more about Taggarts Remodeling
I am the owner of a Local Portland Area general contracting business called Taggart's Remodeling. I have over 3 decades of experience in all phases of residential construction as well as project mgmt. Our service area includes the entire Portland Metro Area, however depending on the size of the ...Read more about Taggarts Remodeling
Porch Pro Headshot Jason Smith Construction, Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Portland, Oregon
(13)
My name is Jason Smith and I started woodworking professionally in 2002. Woodworking has been a part of my life since 1991 when I built my first house for a high school project. After the project, the guys and I started framing houses. Since then I have developed my skills and aim to provide an exce...Read more about Jason Smith Construction, Inc.
My name is Jason Smith and I started woodworking professionally in 2002. Woodworking has been a part of my life since 1991 when I built my first house for a high school project. After the project, the guys and I started framing houses. Since then I have developed my skills and aim to provide an exce...Read more about Jason Smith Construction, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Fred's Sound Of Music Audio Video Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Portland, Oregon
(159)
Stereo and Home Theater Sales, Design, Installation, Service, Repair
Stereo and Home Theater Sales, Design, Installation, Service, Repair
Porch Pro Headshot Hamish Murray Construction, Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Portland, Oregon
(20)
Not all construction firms are created equal. At Hamish Murray Construction, we bring together careful planning, architectural integrity, and a willingness to go the extra mile for our clients. We also focus on flexibility. Some firms mandate that you work with their specific architect, choose from...Read more about Hamish Murray Construction, Inc.
Not all construction firms are created equal. At Hamish Murray Construction, we bring together careful planning, architectural integrity, and a willingness to go the extra mile for our clients. We also focus on flexibility. Some firms mandate that you work with their specific architect, choose from...Read more about Hamish Murray Construction, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Build Forward Construction
General Contractors
Serves Portland, Oregon
If you’re looking for a builder or remodeler who will not only provide you with a superior quality project, but also care about your needs and wants as a property owner, then consider Build Forward your top choice. With over 175 years of combined experience in high-end designing and remodeling, owne...Read more about Build Forward Construction
If you’re looking for a builder or remodeler who will not only provide you with a superior quality project, but also care about your needs and wants as a property owner, then consider Build Forward your top choice. With over 175 years of combined experience in high-end designing and remodeling, owne...Read more about Build Forward Construction

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 Portland General Contractors

343162

Bruce Taggart is an amazing contractor and business owner! I have used different contractors that left me feeling cautious and unhappy but working with Bruce he gets the job done right, the first time! Bruce had given me an estimated deadline and he got i...

- Sara Frank
16082

Bruce and his team were polite and very clean and considerate of our house while they were working(something I was worried about). The estimate was way under budget, and the work is absolutely top notch, as I said I would pay more to ensure i would be 10...

- sam rau
351287

If you are lucky enough to get Daniel and Jordan as your crew, you are in for a treat. These guys are amazing, they know what they're doing, and they seem to really enjoy what they're doing. I have never had a building experience go so perfectly than when...

- Kim Jinkens
416602

The owner, Jon Jordan, hired my boyfriend to build/develop both the landscape and paver side of the business he claimed to be building. During his time at the company, he only ever worked on Jon's house. He operated heavy machinery equipment, that he was ...

- CARESSA SALEE
306692

We decided to add a deck under a car port as part of a minor exterior upgrade. We got a quote from Evergreen Home Exteriors (EHE) that was reasonable and accepted their bid. We paid 60% down to get the project materials ordered. All of that was in early A...

- Curt Scott
444263

I have waited a month to write this review as I did not want to seem like an angry woman - but I am. I liked Drew the one who gave an estimate. The installers were nice but I could not communicate or ask questions as we did not speak the same language. So...

- sunny anderson
474516

I love my new kitchen and two bathrooms. Such a high quality job. Would definitely recommend and use this company again.

- Samantha Daniels
20581

Right from the start this company set itself apart from the rest. Arrived on time to a scheduled estimate, had an ipad with him and was taking pictures and making notes, made a proposal on-site, and had me scheduled to have job started and completed in t...

- Letisha Staniels
27942

My husband and I recently purchased a house after living in a condo for 9 years. During that time, all we had to be concerned with was the interior of our unit so moving into a house where you have to handle everything, was overwhelming. Our realtor pro...

- Sherri Stanley
47622

We had ceilings and walls painted in our dining room, living room, stairwell and hallways. ESP did an excellent job from the estimate, to the prep communication, to the actual painting, and the clean up. The crews were friendly, clean and worked hard. ...

- Susan Lorenz
20388

Jeff and his team have performed an outstanding work from the beginning to the end of this big project: great advice, punctuality, respect of the estimate. Reliable, trustworthy, clean, well organized, discreet, friendly, easy going with the other teams ...

- Nadine Hubert Molerus

Everything You Need to Know About Portland General Contractors

General Contractor Services isn’t exactly what I’m looking for. Are there more specific services similar to general contractors available in Portland?

If you’ve determined that general contractor services are not quite what you were looking for, or if you had a specific project in mind that is similar to general contractor services, we can still help you find the right professional in Portland.

Portland has 50 general contractor professionals that can help you with your general contractor services job. Head to our Pros Page to find specific general contractors-pros in Portland.

How do I know that I found the right General Contractor in Portland for my general contractor services project?

Finding the right general contractor for your project can be stressful.... when you don't search with Porch. We've pulled together everything you need to know about General Contractor Services in Portland so you can have some peace of mind before starting your project.

Here’s what you need to know to choose the right general contractor in Portland:

  • Are they properly licensed? Portland has 5 licensed General Contractors Pros.
  • Are they BBB accredited? 3 pros in Portland are.
  • Check if they are they BBB rated: 18 are A-rated in Portland.
  • Is the quality worth the price? Make sure to find the general contractor that can deliver the quality you're looking for, without going way over your budget. Don't forget that every job is going to be different.
  • Speak with them over the phone: Contact multiple general contractors pros to see if you’re on the same page when it comes to your project.

What zip codes in Portland have the best General Contractors?

Below we've listed Portland zip codes that have great selections of general contractors:

  • 97214: 1 General Contractors.
  • 98664: 1 General Contractors.
  • All General Contractors in Portland, OR

    Porch Pro Headshot Trump & Moloney, LLP
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    Trump & Moloney LLP is a full-service construction general contractor, fully licensed, bonded and insured for residential and light commercial/industrial work in the State of Oregon since 1999. With over 35 years educational and practical experience in a wide variety of construction and design tech...Read more about Trump & Moloney, LLP
    Trump & Moloney LLP is a full-service construction general contractor, fully licensed, bonded and insured for residential and light commercial/industrial work in the State of Oregon since 1999. With over 35 years educational and practical experience in a wide variety of construction and design tech...Read more about Trump & Moloney, LLP
    Porch Pro Headshot American Legacy Homes
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    American Legacy Homes is a full service residential construction company. We build new custom homes, additions, remodels, 203K renovation loans & excavation, roof, siding, windows, kitchen and bath remodels.
    American Legacy Homes is a full service residential construction company. We build new custom homes, additions, remodels, 203K renovation loans & excavation, roof, siding, windows, kitchen and bath remodels.
    Porch Pro Headshot The Killers Crawl Space Restoration
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    (2)
    The Killers Crawl Space Restoration provides crawl space restoration services for rodent damage repairs, insulation removal, crawl space clean outs and vapor barrier replacements within the Portland Metro area. If you have had your crawl space recently infested with pests or rodents we are your go t...Read more about The Killers Crawl Space Restoration
    The Killers Crawl Space Restoration provides crawl space restoration services for rodent damage repairs, insulation removal, crawl space clean outs and vapor barrier replacements within the Portland Metro area. If you have had your crawl space recently infested with pests or rodents we are your go t...Read more about The Killers Crawl Space Restoration
    Porch Pro Headshot NFL Construction LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    (9)
    NFL Construction LLC has done many projects over the years. One of our favorites is a remodel of a house built in the 1950's that was in bad shape. We worked very closed with the home owner from the start, making sure that every detail was taking care of and the results were amazing. NFL Constructio...Read more about NFL Construction LLC
    NFL Construction LLC has done many projects over the years. One of our favorites is a remodel of a house built in the 1950's that was in bad shape. We worked very closed with the home owner from the start, making sure that every detail was taking care of and the results were amazing. NFL Constructio...Read more about NFL Construction LLC
    Porch Pro Headshot BC Group Real Estate Development and Construction Advisors
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    With every project, our goal is to ensure that our client’s real estate decisions increases their bottom line and maximizes their overall success. The BC Group team is experienced in analyzing assets, evaluating options, and solving complicated problems. Our unique team approach allows us to levera...Read more about BC Group Real Estate Development and Construction Advisors
    With every project, our goal is to ensure that our client’s real estate decisions increases their bottom line and maximizes their overall success. The BC Group team is experienced in analyzing assets, evaluating options, and solving complicated problems. Our unique team approach allows us to levera...Read more about BC Group Real Estate Development and Construction Advisors
    Porch Pro Headshot Buffalo Contracting LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    Buffalo Construction, Inc. is a commercial construction partner with one overriding promise: to make the customer happy. Our principals, who are personally involved in every project, have all been in the client's shoes. We get it done right, no matter what it takes. Founded in 1997 by Scott A. Greg...Read more about Buffalo Contracting LLC
    Buffalo Construction, Inc. is a commercial construction partner with one overriding promise: to make the customer happy. Our principals, who are personally involved in every project, have all been in the client's shoes. We get it done right, no matter what it takes. Founded in 1997 by Scott A. Greg...Read more about Buffalo Contracting LLC
    Porch Pro Headshot TRACE BRASH CONSTRUCTION
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    Remodels, additions and handyman services. 34 years as a licensed contractor.
    Remodels, additions and handyman services. 34 years as a licensed contractor.
    Porch Pro Headshot Bridgetown Home Buyers, LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    To help home owners get their get their tasks completed on time and on schedule.
    To help home owners get their get their tasks completed on time and on schedule.
    Porch Pro Headshot Boyds Innovative Customs llc
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    Porch Pro Headshot Cascade Restoration & Remodeling
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    Hi, I'm Steve Pruitt, and in 1987 I founded Cascade Restoration & Remodeling here in Portland, OR. Over the last two decades I've consistently sought out the best employees, subcontractors and affiliates to be a part of the Cascade family. We are on the scene every day making sure all aspects of you...Read more about Cascade Restoration & Remodeling
    Hi, I'm Steve Pruitt, and in 1987 I founded Cascade Restoration & Remodeling here in Portland, OR. Over the last two decades I've consistently sought out the best employees, subcontractors and affiliates to be a part of the Cascade family. We are on the scene every day making sure all aspects of you...Read more about Cascade Restoration & Remodeling
    Porch Pro Headshot Soul Brothers Construction, LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    We offer complete residential construction solutions at an affordable rate. We are dedicated to providing superior service, but more importantly, creating a friendly and family oriented type of environment. A lot of contractors have mad reputations, and it is important for us not to be one of those ...Read more about Soul Brothers Construction, LLC
    We offer complete residential construction solutions at an affordable rate. We are dedicated to providing superior service, but more importantly, creating a friendly and family oriented type of environment. A lot of contractors have mad reputations, and it is important for us not to be one of those ...Read more about Soul Brothers Construction, LLC
    Porch Pro Headshot Willco Painting & Construction Inc
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    (1)
    Porch Pro Headshot Mac-Bo, LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon
    (10)
    Porch Pro Headshot C. R. Collins Construction LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Portland, Oregon