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 Viejas Arena
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(1,769)
You will likewise gain from cheaper last minute tickets, as we advertise the most effective online ticket market to buy and sell tickets. Our listings make use of one of the most respectable online ticket industry to market as well as distribute tickets for occasions at Viejas Arena Theatre. Today, ...Read more about Viejas Arena
You will likewise gain from cheaper last minute tickets, as we advertise the most effective online ticket market to buy and sell tickets. Our listings make use of one of the most respectable online ticket industry to market as well as distribute tickets for occasions at Viejas Arena Theatre. Today, ...Read more about Viejas Arena
Porch Pro Headshot San diego carpet repair and dying
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(394)
San Diego Carpet Repair and Carpet Dying. We get out any and all stains guaranteed! We offer carpet dyeing, carpet repair, carpet patching, seam repair, bleach stain removal, pet damage, water damage repair, berber repair, carpet stretching, Red Stain Removal, wax Removal, Pet Stain Removal and much...Read more about San diego carpet repair and dying
San Diego Carpet Repair and Carpet Dying. We get out any and all stains guaranteed! We offer carpet dyeing, carpet repair, carpet patching, seam repair, bleach stain removal, pet damage, water damage repair, berber repair, carpet stretching, Red Stain Removal, wax Removal, Pet Stain Removal and much...Read more about San diego carpet repair and dying
Porch Pro Headshot Anderson Design Inc.
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(113)
"We now have a beautiful new kitchen! Better than expected. These guys really know their business. Great workmanship combined with top materials made for a dream kitchen. No complaints here. Next up -new bathroom, can't wait. Thank you to Mr. Anderson and his professional staff."
"We now have a beautiful new kitchen! Better than expected. These guys really know their business. Great workmanship combined with top materials made for a dream kitchen. No complaints here. Next up -new bathroom, can't wait. Thank you to Mr. Anderson and his professional staff."
Porch Pro Headshot Need for Build Inc
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(72)
"Great company! Remodeled my bathroom with them and couldn’t be happier. Avi, our project manager was always on top of everything and made sure that we had peace of mind. We work crazy schedules, so for us this was very important to find someone we can trust while we’re away. The crew was polite and...Read more about Need for Build Inc
"Great company! Remodeled my bathroom with them and couldn’t be happier. Avi, our project manager was always on top of everything and made sure that we had peace of mind. We work crazy schedules, so for us this was very important to find someone we can trust while we’re away. The crew was polite and...Read more about Need for Build Inc
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 Frazier Construction
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(45)
" Jason is professional extremely talented and very knowledgeable all our work was completed on time and within budget we are extremely happy with our beautiful kitchen bath as well as flooring and remodel of our family room I would definitely recommend Jason to anyone anytime."
" Jason is professional extremely talented and very knowledgeable all our work was completed on time and within budget we are extremely happy with our beautiful kitchen bath as well as flooring and remodel of our family room I would definitely recommend Jason to anyone anytime."
Porch Pro Headshot Davic Construction
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(24)
Davic Construction in San Diego, CA, provides expert help in home improvements. Specializing in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, our construction company offers personalized attention with every project as we transform a boring kitchen or lackluster bath into a showpiece you can be proud of. Since ...Read more about Davic Construction
Davic Construction in San Diego, CA, provides expert help in home improvements. Specializing in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, our construction company offers personalized attention with every project as we transform a boring kitchen or lackluster bath into a showpiece you can be proud of. Since ...Read more about Davic Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Main Group Construction
General Contractors
Serves San Diego, California
(8)
"Patricio and Main Group remodeled my kitchen and did a lovely job. I was very happy with how quickly they completed the remodel. They continued to be communicative and kept an even level of professionalism throughout the project."
"Patricio and Main Group remodeled my kitchen and did a lovely job. I was very happy with how quickly they completed the remodel. They continued to be communicative and kept an even level of professionalism throughout the project."
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

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

343769

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 fi...

- Haley Draper
268823

I hired Brian Thomas from February 2020 through March of 2020 and here are the reasons why I do not recommend using this company: 1. The contract I signed with them was for one year, 12 months, of SWPPP inspections, for which they quoted me $13,390. Aft...

- Ivan Delgado
231362

I'm super happy with the new kitchen! My family was also wowed by how great it looks. The whole experience from the very first meeting has been nothing but great. Very professional work and service. They always addressed any concerns I had. Thank you A...

- Rulis Dee
148836

I hired need for build to remodel my yard, we did concrete, artificial turf and retaining wall. The whole process was outstanding. The guys showed up on time everyday, they were very professional. I love the fact that they were local and family owned. Hig...

- Linor Edri
507919

I recently hired Need For Build to install a retaining wall and replace my driveway. While I am happy with the build quality, I chose them over the competition because of their Price Match Guarantee, which it turns out they do not honor. When they provid...

- Drew Lawson
231338

We researched many companies before hiring need for build to redo our landscape project. Even though I had better quotes in terms of cost, I felt comfortable with their knowledge and professionalism to finally execute the work. From start to finish everyt...

- Vanessa Sasson
148837

Great experience with need for build! Had my kitchen remodeled by them and best decision ever! From workmanship to price and punctuality, they definitely deserve 5 stars. Hard to find good contractors these days... highly recommend!

- Lina Pinedo
98155

Very bad service! The staff were misbehavior s! I don't forget this wasting scene!!!

- Regina Bennett
95237

My dog destroyed my carpet, i called san diego carpet repair and carpet dying and they came out and did an amazing job! Thanks guys!

- jim ball
98154
98139

Very bad service! The staff were misbehavior s! I don't forget this wasting scene!!!

- Sherri Frazier
98167

very bad service...

- ronald park

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 Remcon Design Build
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        Remcon Design Build is a remodeling company located in San Diego and proudly provides its services to all of San Diego and surrounding counties. RDB believes in Peace Of Mind by maintaining the facilities to provide in one place creative quality designs, Plans and permits, material selections and a ...Read more about Remcon Design Build
        Remcon Design Build is a remodeling company located in San Diego and proudly provides its services to all of San Diego and surrounding counties. RDB believes in Peace Of Mind by maintaining the facilities to provide in one place creative quality designs, Plans and permits, material selections and a ...Read more about Remcon Design Build
        Porch Pro Headshot SKIN
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        (30)
        SKIN by Kris is home to the best facials in San Diego, CA. A certified HydraFacial MD specialist, Kristi Martone has worked under Dr. Zein Obagi, Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick, Dr. Mitch Goldman, Dr.Kimberly Butterwick and Sonya Dakar. Located in Hillcrest right outside of Downtown SD, SKIN by Kris offe...Read more about SKIN
        SKIN by Kris is home to the best facials in San Diego, CA. A certified HydraFacial MD specialist, Kristi Martone has worked under Dr. Zein Obagi, Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick, Dr. Mitch Goldman, Dr.Kimberly Butterwick and Sonya Dakar. Located in Hillcrest right outside of Downtown SD, SKIN by Kris offe...Read more about SKIN
        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 BRIAN THOMAS CONSULTING INC.
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        (9)
        Brian Thomas Consulting is a remodeling specialist that was established in 2009 and provides San Diego County with kitchen remodels, custom home builds, and more.
        Brian Thomas Consulting is a remodeling specialist that was established in 2009 and provides San Diego County with kitchen remodels, custom home builds, and more.
        Porch Pro Headshot American Development Construction
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        American Development Construction National City, CA, 91950 (619) 259-7991 Our construction company prides itself on maintaining clean work environments and completing tasks in the most efficient manner available. Our goal as a company is to provide an ever-increasing scope of service solutions t...Read more about American Development Construction
        American Development Construction National City, CA, 91950 (619) 259-7991 Our construction company prides itself on maintaining clean work environments and completing tasks in the most efficient manner available. Our goal as a company is to provide an ever-increasing scope of service solutions t...Read more about American Development Construction
        Porch Pro Headshot Muffin manicure landscaping
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        We are the best in the west!
        We are the best in the west!
        Porch Pro Headshot Car Accident Lawyer San Diego
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        Contact Car Accident Lawyer San Diego to speak with a car accident attorney about your case. We have most experienced attorney with years of experience. We are affordable for all our services.
        Contact Car Accident Lawyer San Diego to speak with a car accident attorney about your case. We have most experienced attorney with years of experience. We are affordable for all our services.
        Porch Pro Headshot SAN DIEGO CERTIFIED RENOVATIONS
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        San Diego Certified Renovations is a full-service general contractor located in the heart of San Diego. We provide our commercial and residential clients with the highest quality workmanship and exceptional work ethics. Our team of professionals are experts in their crafts and treat every client we ...Read more about SAN DIEGO CERTIFIED RENOVATIONS
        San Diego Certified Renovations is a full-service general contractor located in the heart of San Diego. We provide our commercial and residential clients with the highest quality workmanship and exceptional work ethics. Our team of professionals are experts in their crafts and treat every client we ...Read more about SAN DIEGO CERTIFIED RENOVATIONS
        Porch Pro Headshot P A Suarez General Contractor
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        We offer a full service design & build company. We have maintained licensing by the California State Contractors Licensing Board since 1995. We take pride in providing quality craftsmanship with superior attention to detail. Frequent updates are provided through every phase to ensure that clients ...Read more about P A Suarez General Contractor
        We offer a full service design & build company. We have maintained licensing by the California State Contractors Licensing Board since 1995. We take pride in providing quality craftsmanship with superior attention to detail. Frequent updates are provided through every phase to ensure that clients ...Read more about P A Suarez General Contractor
        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)
        100% response rate
        Porch Pro Headshot Brasseur Construction  Inc
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        (2)
        Porch Pro Headshot CALIF-PRO Painting and General Contractor Inc.
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California
        Porch Pro Headshot Brett Anthony Const Inc
        General Contractors
        Serves San Diego, California