Top 10 General Contractors in San Diego, CA

Porch Pro Headshot Bill Howe Restoration & Flood Services, Inc.
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(3,375)
Bill Howe Restoration & Flood Services, Inc. provides 24 hour emergency services in San Diego including water damage, fire & smoke damage, and mold remediation. Our San Diego based restoration & reconstruction division is fully certified and uses only state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that clie...Read more about Bill Howe Restoration & Flood Services, Inc.
Bill Howe Restoration & Flood Services, Inc. provides 24 hour emergency services in San Diego including water damage, fire & smoke damage, and mold remediation. Our San Diego based restoration & reconstruction division is fully certified and uses only state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that clie...Read more about Bill Howe Restoration & Flood Services, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Inner City Skyline Inc
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(302)
"I had 2 projects done at my home - with Inner City Skyline. Both my front and backyards were landscaped. I could not have gotten better Project Managers had I hand picked them myself. Both Eli and Matt were exceptional from inception to conclusion. They were committed to giving us exactly what w...Read more about Inner City Skyline Inc
"I had 2 projects done at my home - with Inner City Skyline. Both my front and backyards were landscaped. I could not have gotten better Project Managers had I hand picked them myself. Both Eli and Matt were exceptional from inception to conclusion. They were committed to giving us exactly what w...Read more about Inner City Skyline Inc
Porch Pro Headshot Anderson Design Inc.
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(113)
"What an overall positive experience we had using Anderson Design for our brand new bathroom remodel. Our new bathroom really exceeded our expectations! Mr. Anderson and his crew were awesome. The whole process from the initial design to the finished product was smooth and professional. I would high...Read more about Anderson Design Inc.
"What an overall positive experience we had using Anderson Design for our brand new bathroom remodel. Our new bathroom really exceeded our expectations! Mr. Anderson and his crew were awesome. The whole process from the initial design to the finished product was smooth and professional. I would high...Read more about Anderson Design Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot D&L Builders Inc.
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(96)
"We recently needed to replace a kitchen garden window because the original window had grown cloudy. Although the project was not huge, it required installation of a specially built California Classic window around an existing granite counter-top inside as well as working around the existing stucco...Read more about D&L Builders Inc.
"We recently needed to replace a kitchen garden window because the original window had grown cloudy. Although the project was not huge, it required installation of a specially built California Classic window around an existing granite counter-top inside as well as working around the existing stucco...Read more about D&L Builders Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(75)
Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel specializes in residential remodeling, home renovation and construction. As a 4 generation local San Diego business and 4 time Better Business Bureau Torch Award winner for marketplace ethics, we have been designing and remodeling homes since 1975. Our servic...Read more about Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel
Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel specializes in residential remodeling, home renovation and construction. As a 4 generation local San Diego business and 4 time Better Business Bureau Torch Award winner for marketplace ethics, we have been designing and remodeling homes since 1975. Our servic...Read more about Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel
Porch Pro Headshot Lars Remodeling & Design
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(134)
Lars Remodeling & Design is a full-service San Diego residential design and remodeling firm. Services include: architectural design, whole home remodels, outdoor living areas, room additions, kitchen remodels and bathroom remodels. Founded in 1991, Lars Remodeling & Design has become one of the lar...Read more about Lars Remodeling & Design
Lars Remodeling & Design is a full-service San Diego residential design and remodeling firm. Services include: architectural design, whole home remodels, outdoor living areas, room additions, kitchen remodels and bathroom remodels. Founded in 1991, Lars Remodeling & Design has become one of the lar...Read more about Lars Remodeling & Design
Porch Pro Headshot Lyvayko Bathroom Systems
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(43)
"The Lyvayko Company did a fantastic job in remodeling our bathroom, and what was a Jacuzzi tub is now a beautiful walk-in shower. These guys are always on time and do such a professional job. Their tile work and their general attention to detail is beyond reproach. I would highly recommend them ...Read more about Lyvayko Bathroom Systems
"The Lyvayko Company did a fantastic job in remodeling our bathroom, and what was a Jacuzzi tub is now a beautiful walk-in shower. These guys are always on time and do such a professional job. Their tile work and their general attention to detail is beyond reproach. I would highly recommend them ...Read more about Lyvayko Bathroom Systems
Porch Pro Headshot Divine Home Remodeling
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, 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 Home improvement projects
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(85)
In today's economy the need to make the dollar stretch is on everyone's mind. With your home being one of your largest investments, it is important to maintain the up keep of your home and make it as comfortable as possible. At Home Improvement Projects Plus (H.I.P.P.) our goal is to provide our cus...Read more about Home improvement projects
In today's economy the need to make the dollar stretch is on everyone's mind. With your home being one of your largest investments, it is important to maintain the up keep of your home and make it as comfortable as possible. At Home Improvement Projects Plus (H.I.P.P.) our goal is to provide our cus...Read more about Home improvement projects
Porch Pro Headshot BRIAN THOMAS CONSULTING INC.
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, 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.

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 San Diego 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
21121

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!!

- Esther La Fuze
152610

Contacted Inner City Skyline to remodel my Kitchen & I am very impressed. He and his team did an excellent and beautiful job. The crew was quick to respond to my inquiries, with the estimate, and with the work itself. Will definitely be calling him first ...

- Frank D
152831

Quick, reliable, and extremely professional. They got the work done within a few days and everything looked clean and well taken care of. If you need a professional at a great value, then look nowhere else. Inner City Skyline is the team to go with. Highl...

- Joe Redd
155421

Amazing company to work with. The owner couldn't have been more helpful, he always returned my phone calls and was very accommodating with my schedule. Really excellent experience and professional craftsmanship. I would definitely use Inner City Skyline a...

- Ben Sons
151940

Inner City Skyline and his team are excellent. They were very professional and their policies are great. He is more like a friend doing what's best for you than a businessman. This team has great customer service and the company does great work. I would h...

- Vivian Francis
156925

Great experience with a professional and courteous company. Quick communication via email, phone and text. We went with his great idea and saved money. The crew showed up on time and were pros. We are very happy with the service and absolutely love th...

- Jack Patrick
160044

Inner City Skyline did a great job remodeling our kitchen. These folks really know what they are doing when it comes to redesigning homes. High level of management and guidance throughout the whole project. Everything was very smooth and quick, and the en...

- Amanda Franklin
159214

Just had a pleasure and very helpful experience with this company. Attentive to listening to my vision for my remodeling project. They fixed the foundation supports and remodeled our master bedroom. I love the customer portal with updates during the const...

- Winston v
151246

I had my kitchen remodel done and the whole experience was positive. They gave me a fair quote which made me hire them. I am glad I did hire Inner City Skyline to do my kitchen because all my friends are complimenting how my kitchen looks beautiful and ev...

- KYLIE SUMMERS
156353

We just completed a kitchen remodel with Inner City Skyline and they were fantastic. We couldn't be happier with the results! This company is Professional, Respectful, Courteous, Honest, Knowledgeable, & they Communicate very well. They find a way to make...

- Janet Watson
156075

Firmly exceeded my expectations and would recommend Inner City Skyline and his team for any remodeling work. They have gained my loyalty and trust 100%. They made the whole process smooth, easy and successful all at a convenient price. Super honest and ex...

- Savio Elvis

Everything You Need to Know About San Diego General Contractors

Can I browse unscreened General Contractors in San Diego?

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

  • J Richards Construction:
    • BBB Rating: A+
    • Active/Verified License: No, current status is inactive
  • Crawford Contracting:
    • BBB Rating: A+
    • Active/Verified License: Yes, Current Status is Active
  • B.M.C. Builders, LLC:
    • Active/Verified License: No, current status is inactive

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

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 San Diego.

San Diego 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 San Diego.

What San Diego zip codes are served by General Contractors?

San Diego has 50 total General Contractor companies that service multiple zip codes. We've put together a list of areas in and around San Diego with the most General Contractors:

      • 1 General Contractors in 92123.
        • 1 General Contractors in 92105.

        All General Contractors in San Diego, CA

        Porch Pro Headshot Wade Company
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        (9)
        Wade Company has been family owned and operated since 2004. We are a residential and commercial contractor Licensed A Engineering and B General Contracting with over 30 years of experience.We offer a wide variety of services including additions, remodels, garage building, and complete renovations. O...Read more about Wade Company
        Wade Company has been family owned and operated since 2004. We are a residential and commercial contractor Licensed A Engineering and B General Contracting with over 30 years of experience.We offer a wide variety of services including additions, remodels, garage building, and complete renovations. O...Read more about Wade Company
        Porch Pro Headshot Frazier Construction
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        (45)
        Frazier Construction is a general contractor based out of San Diego. They provide framing, remodeling, renovation, handyman, plumbing, and more.
        Frazier Construction is a general contractor based out of San Diego. They provide framing, remodeling, renovation, handyman, plumbing, and more.
        Porch Pro Headshot Tl Premier Construction, Inc.
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        (19)
        A premier contracting company in San Diego, TL Premier Construction has built beautiful retail stores, kitchens, bathrooms, family rooms, and master bedrooms for many happy clients throughout San Diego. We are fully licensed & insured (Commerical General Liability Insurance). A member of the Better...Read more about Tl Premier Construction, Inc.
        A premier contracting company in San Diego, TL Premier Construction has built beautiful retail stores, kitchens, bathrooms, family rooms, and master bedrooms for many happy clients throughout San Diego. We are fully licensed & insured (Commerical General Liability Insurance). A member of the Better...Read more about Tl Premier Construction, Inc.
        Porch Pro Headshot ALIX NOLIN CONSTRUCTION INC.
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        A lot of passion and hard work: this has been the key ingredients to the success of Alix Nolin Construction, Inc. since its founding in 1982. Alix Nolin Construction, Inc. is a company that genuinely cares. As a small but successful company, personal touch and professionalism is always the focus in ...Read more about ALIX NOLIN CONSTRUCTION INC.
        A lot of passion and hard work: this has been the key ingredients to the success of Alix Nolin Construction, Inc. since its founding in 1982. Alix Nolin Construction, Inc. is a company that genuinely cares. As a small but successful company, personal touch and professionalism is always the focus in ...Read more about ALIX NOLIN CONSTRUCTION INC.
        Porch Pro Headshot DryFix Services & Contractor
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, 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 BRO Construction
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        BRO Construction is a San Diego construction company specializing in home repair, maintenance, and home improvement. Whether you need a handyman for a simple fix or a major property renovation, BRO Construction can provide you with the expertise you need to make your home improvemt dreams become a r...Read more about BRO Construction
        BRO Construction is a San Diego construction company specializing in home repair, maintenance, and home improvement. Whether you need a handyman for a simple fix or a major property renovation, BRO Construction can provide you with the expertise you need to make your home improvemt dreams become a r...Read more about BRO Construction
        Porch Pro Headshot Oscar's Handy Service
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        (4)
        Porch Pro Headshot SAN DIEGO ROOFING & SOLAR
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        San Diego Roofing & Solar has been in business for more than 80 years!
        San Diego Roofing & Solar has been in business for more than 80 years!
        Porch Pro Headshot Fraire Construction Services Inc
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        Call today for remodels and general contracting needs!
        Call today for remodels and general contracting needs!

        Latest projects near San Diego

        Recent projects booked on Porch
        Escondido 92025
        Residential Building
        Start Date
        Within a week
        Project type
        Something else
        Residential building project type
        replacing 2 double doors outside toolshed
        Extent of design prep work
        No
        National City 91950
        Siding Installation
        Start Date
        Within a month
        Install new or replace
        Replace existing siding
        Already removed siding
        Yes
        Filing an insurance claim
        No
        Type of siding
        I would like to have white batten shutters installation on on my vinyl siding home windows. I was told by a handyman on porch.com. to search for professional vinyl siding installer instead to do the job.
        Home square footage
        I'm not sure
        Number of stories tall
        One floor