Top 10 General Contractors in San Marcos, CA

Porch Pro Headshot Bill Howe Restoration & Flood Services, Inc.
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(3,375)
"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!!"
"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!!"
Porch Pro Headshot A1 Factory Flooring
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(320)
Chamberlain Industries is a general contractor based out of San Marcos. They offer kitchen remodeling, foundation repair and other services. Chamberlain Industries is licensed by the state of California. They are bonded and insured.
Chamberlain Industries is a general contractor based out of San Marcos. They offer kitchen remodeling, foundation repair and other services. Chamberlain Industries is licensed by the state of California. They are bonded and insured.
Porch Pro Headshot Anderson Design Inc.
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, 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 Coastal Home Design Studio
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(44)
"Coastal Home Design has been very helpful in guiding me to make wise choices during my home/kitchen remodel. Even though Im in the middle of the project, I feel comfortable in giving Suzanne and her staff a very positive endorsement. She and Ginger have been very professional and their knowledge ha...Read more about Coastal Home Design Studio
"Coastal Home Design has been very helpful in guiding me to make wise choices during my home/kitchen remodel. Even though Im in the middle of the project, I feel comfortable in giving Suzanne and her staff a very positive endorsement. She and Ginger have been very professional and their knowledge ha...Read more about Coastal Home Design Studio
Porch Pro Headshot Home improvement projects
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(85)
Since our founding in 2012, Home Improvement Projects Inc has operated with strong values aimed at understanding and serving families needs. To us, every new project means a new friendship. The information we learn from this open communication model allows us to deliver excellent results. Get in tou...Read more about Home improvement projects
100% response rate
Since our founding in 2012, Home Improvement Projects Inc has operated with strong values aimed at understanding and serving families needs. To us, every new project means a new friendship. The information we learn from this open communication model allows us to deliver excellent results. Get in tou...Read more about Home improvement projects
Porch Pro Headshot AR Engineering Construction
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(20)
We have over 25 years in the residential and commercial construction industry. We specialize in foundation and structural repairs. We not only repair broken foundations, we assess homes for earthquake 'preparedness' and retrofit for safety in the event of an earthquake. Our additional services inc...Read more about AR Engineering Construction
We have over 25 years in the residential and commercial construction industry. We specialize in foundation and structural repairs. We not only repair broken foundations, we assess homes for earthquake 'preparedness' and retrofit for safety in the event of an earthquake. Our additional services inc...Read more about AR Engineering Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Building Services
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(32)
Victor has been a general contractor for over 25 years, having history and deep expertise in both commercial and residential construction. He specializes in complete home remodels, room additions as well as kitchen and bath remodels.
Victor has been a general contractor for over 25 years, having history and deep expertise in both commercial and residential construction. He specializes in complete home remodels, room additions as well as kitchen and bath remodels.
Porch Pro Headshot BRIAN THOMAS CONSULTING INC.
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, 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.
Porch Pro Headshot Wade Company
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, 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 Paul Davis Restoration of North County San Diego
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
Paul Davis Restoration of North County San Diego, CA is part of a national franchise organization that provides services to clean up and repair damage to residential, institutional and commercial structures from water, fire, mold, storm or other disasters. Founded in 1966, Paul Davis is a rapidly gr...Read more about Paul Davis Restoration of North County San Diego
Paul Davis Restoration of North County San Diego, CA is part of a national franchise organization that provides services to clean up and repair damage to residential, institutional and commercial structures from water, fire, mold, storm or other disasters. Founded in 1966, Paul Davis is a rapidly gr...Read more about Paul Davis Restoration of North County San Diego

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 Marcos General Contractors

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
7306

Excellent to keep appointment. Very good work quality. Good value.

Great! Professional, great ideas and wonderful to work with! Project completed on time with no delays.

7288

Very good value. Very good work quality. Very good to keep appointment.

Suzanne and her team were fantastic. From design to final construction, they were honest, timely and professional. I highly recommend their work.

7648

Excellent work quality. Excellent responsiveness in communication. Excellent value.

- Kitty Piesik
7265

I was immediately impressed that Suzanne was able to embraced my personal style through conservation and observation that resulted in her selecting the perfect products/appliances that made my dream kitchen come to fruition. Her creativity in design is ...

7278

Excellent to keep appointment. Very good value. Excellent responsiveness in communication.

The were patient and helped pull the job through to completion.

7247

Suzanne and the design team were amazing. She knew what I wanted before I did. I only go through references and I must say that this was the greatest reference of my life. A very pleasant company to work with, kept me well within my budget and delivered e...

7246

Excellent to keep appointment. Excellent responsiveness in communication. Excellent value.

Our kitchen design and cabinets exceeded our expectations. Suzanne was a pleasure to work with and her attention to detail was outstanding.

- David McWhirter
7243
7279

My experience with Suzanne and Rob was unlike previous experiences I've had with other contractors. They are enjoyable to work with, they take pride in their work, their subs showed up on time, did quality work and were a pleasure to deal with. Suzanne ha...

7259

Excellent to keep appointment. Excellent responsiveness in communication. Excellent work quality.

Everything You Need to Know About San Marcos General Contractors

Can I browse unscreened General Contractors in San Marcos?

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

  • R.L. Clinkenbeard Construction, Inc.:
    • Active/Verified License: Yes, Current Status is Active
  • Bill Howe Restoration & Flood Services, Inc.:
    • Active/Verified License: Yes, Current Status is Active
  • Xpedient Communications Inc:
    • BBB Rating: A+
    • Active/Verified License: Yes, Current Status is Active

How do I know I am getting a fair price for General Contractor Services work in San Marcos?

Every General Contractor Services job has different requirements. Remember that the price will differ depending on the scope of your project. However, that doesn't mean you have to go in blind. Check out our tips for getting a fair price for San Marcos work from General Contractorsbelow:

  • Talk to a few different General Contractors and ask for quotes to compare. We have around 50 professionals and companies in San Marcos for you to compare.
  • Before contacting a company, check out the ratings and reviews from previous customers to learn what others have paid, how long the General Contractors took on the job, and how satisfied they were.

How many general contractors does San Marcos have?

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

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

All General Contractors in San Marcos, CA

Porch Pro Headshot American Development Construction
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, 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 Big Build Construction
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(12)
As a San Diego based General Contractor, we want to help fulfill home improvement dreams in our communities by providing affordable and professional construction services to our neighbors. Our Construction Company specializes in New Construction and Full Home Remodeling, operating out of the North C...Read more about Big Build Construction
As a San Diego based General Contractor, we want to help fulfill home improvement dreams in our communities by providing affordable and professional construction services to our neighbors. Our Construction Company specializes in New Construction and Full Home Remodeling, operating out of the North C...Read more about Big Build Construction
Porch Pro Headshot DryFix Services & Contractor
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, 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 ECS Construction Inc.
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
ECS Construction has been serving San Diego's North County since 1989. We specialize in all areas of residential construction including custom homes, room additions, remodels, kitchens and baths.
ECS Construction has been serving San Diego's North County since 1989. We specialize in all areas of residential construction including custom homes, room additions, remodels, kitchens and baths.
Porch Pro Headshot Network Cabling Incorporated
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
Network Cabling is a trusted provider of voice and data cabling, fiber optic, wireless, and data center installation. The ability to connect customer, supplier, and staff - quickly and without interruption - is a core component of business applications today. As a natural progression of business,...Read more about Network Cabling Incorporated
Network Cabling is a trusted provider of voice and data cabling, fiber optic, wireless, and data center installation. The ability to connect customer, supplier, and staff - quickly and without interruption - is a core component of business applications today. As a natural progression of business,...Read more about Network Cabling Incorporated
Porch Pro Headshot Southland Asphalt
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
Southland Asphalt Escondido, CA, 92029 (800) 721-2001 Southland Asphalt is located in Escondido, CA. With over 25 years of experience, we offer professional and reliable asphalt paving services. Do not hesitate to call us now! Asphalt Paving, Asphalt Paving Services, Residential Asphalt Paving, Com...Read more about Southland Asphalt
Southland Asphalt Escondido, CA, 92029 (800) 721-2001 Southland Asphalt is located in Escondido, CA. With over 25 years of experience, we offer professional and reliable asphalt paving services. Do not hesitate to call us now! Asphalt Paving, Asphalt Paving Services, Residential Asphalt Paving, Com...Read more about Southland Asphalt
Porch Pro Headshot Nickel Construction
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
Located in San Marcos, Nickel Construction is a general contractor that offers services such as foundation testing, accessibility construction and other services.
Located in San Marcos, Nickel Construction is a general contractor that offers services such as foundation testing, accessibility construction and other services.
Porch Pro Headshot Delphi Construction
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(79)
Porch Pro Headshot Oscar's Handy Service
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
(4)
100% response rate
Porch Pro Headshot Lego drywall inc
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
Porch Pro Headshot Green Rainbow Landscape
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
Green Rainbow Landscape is a reliable landscaper that provides services like sprinkler installation and hardscape in Vista, CA. For more information, contact us now. Landscape Edging Solana Beach, CA Landscaping, Landscaping Contractor, Lawn Installation, Hardscape Pavers, Yard Sprinkler System Addr...Read more about Green Rainbow Landscape
Green Rainbow Landscape is a reliable landscaper that provides services like sprinkler installation and hardscape in Vista, CA. For more information, contact us now. Landscape Edging Solana Beach, CA Landscaping, Landscaping Contractor, Lawn Installation, Hardscape Pavers, Yard Sprinkler System Addr...Read more about Green Rainbow Landscape
Porch Pro Headshot CALIF-PRO Painting and General Contractor Inc.
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California
Porch Pro Headshot BuddhaTeas Lemongrass Tea
General Contractors
Serves San Marcos, California