Top 3 General Contractors in Seattle, WA

Porch Pro Headshot Haas Development & Construction
We specialize in interior or exterior home renovations, kitchen remodeling, bathrooms, additions and new home builds. We give free estimates and respond with full bids within 24 hours.
2657 37th Ave SW, Seattle, WA
206-687-3078
Porch Pro Headshot High-Tech Restoration
"Nice guy, but he told my wife he didn't know it was a spot clean. However, I uploaded the video to Porch and text him a pic of the dog puke. The guy said he didn't have the spot cleaner solution because he thought is was a normal carpet cleaning. "
PO Box 84903, Seattle, WA
206-355-1717
Porch Pro Headshot Emerald City Construction
"Hello, We hired Emerald City Construction for a remodel & addition in our Mercer Island,WA residence. Dmitry and Viktor had a exceptional team. They got the project done on schedule and while still maintaining grade A quality. I will definitely use Emerald City Construction in the future."
2571 152nd Ave NE Ste 15B, Redmond, WA
425-502-8174

More General Contractors in Seattle, WA

Porch Pro Headshot Darren Patt Construction
General Contractors
Serves Seattle, Washington
(28)
We are a residential general contractor specializing in remodels and additions in the greater Seattle area. I have been in construction for 15 years, building and remodeling some of the finest homes in the greater Seattle area. What started out as a career in home building has evolved into a passi...Read more about Darren Patt Construction
We are a residential general contractor specializing in remodels and additions in the greater Seattle area. I have been in construction for 15 years, building and remodeling some of the finest homes in the greater Seattle area. What started out as a career in home building has evolved into a passi...Read more about Darren Patt Construction
Porch Pro Headshot North West General Contracting LLC
General Contractors
Serves Seattle, Washington
(46)
North West General Contracting is based on the belief that our customer's needs are of the utmost importance. Our team is committed to meeting those needs. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver the best service. No job is too big or too small for our experienced team.
North West General Contracting is based on the belief that our customer's needs are of the utmost importance. Our team is committed to meeting those needs. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver the best service. No job is too big or too small for our experienced team.
Porch Pro Headshot Pathway Design and Construction
General Contractors
Serves Seattle, Washington
(18)
Pathway is a Seattle-based remodeling company with a focus on healthy building design: - We can manage the entire remodel process from design through construction. - We work in close collaboration with our clients and with our architects and tradespeople who share our commitment to craftsmanship an...Read more about Pathway Design and Construction
Pathway is a Seattle-based remodeling company with a focus on healthy building design: - We can manage the entire remodel process from design through construction. - We work in close collaboration with our clients and with our architects and tradespeople who share our commitment to craftsmanship an...Read more about Pathway Design and Construction
Porch Pro Headshot HIP GROUP CO
General Contractors
Serves Seattle, Washington
(24)
HIP Group (as a Home Improvement Service company) provides various services, including flooring installation, painting, cleaning, windows treatment. We offer a simple deal - buying a Home Improvement Packages or HIP flyers, combining Labor and Materials in an easy-to-understand solution, you get tu...Read more about HIP GROUP CO
HIP Group (as a Home Improvement Service company) provides various services, including flooring installation, painting, cleaning, windows treatment. We offer a simple deal - buying a Home Improvement Packages or HIP flyers, combining Labor and Materials in an easy-to-understand solution, you get tu...Read more about HIP GROUP CO
Porch Pro Headshot Old Town Builders LLC
General Contractors
Serves Seattle, Washington
(20)
"I needed to fit a shed in a tight spot between two mature trees, and wanted the maximum storage space. Pre-fab sheds just didn’t cut it. Old Town Builders came up with a loft design that almost doubled the possible storage space. And they designed and built it so that my tree roots weren’t dist...Read more about Old Town Builders LLC
"I needed to fit a shed in a tight spot between two mature trees, and wanted the maximum storage space. Pre-fab sheds just didn’t cut it. Old Town Builders came up with a loft design that almost doubled the possible storage space. And they designed and built it so that my tree roots weren’t dist...Read more about Old Town Builders LLC
Porch Pro Headshot All Vital Construction LLC
General Contractors
Serves Seattle, Washington
(14)
"The First impression of Lucas and his team was excellent. First of all, they called me back immediately not to mention they were the only one's to call me back from Porch. They showed up five minutes early to the walk through which is extremely unusual for contractors. The tile work was extremely c...Read more about All Vital Construction LLC
"The First impression of Lucas and his team was excellent. First of all, they called me back immediately not to mention they were the only one's to call me back from Porch. They showed up five minutes early to the walk through which is extremely unusual for contractors. The tile work was extremely c...Read more about All Vital Construction LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Woodcrafters Construction
General Contractors
Serves Seattle, Washington
(9)
"We have a fantastic house and while no construction project is completely without some bumps, this was as good as anyone could have hoped for--we finished on time and on budget. The best part was that we were able to design the house to meet our needs and aesthetic, with Travis' help regarding hi...Read more about Woodcrafters Construction
"We have a fantastic house and while no construction project is completely without some bumps, this was as good as anyone could have hoped for--we finished on time and on budget. The best part was that we were able to design the house to meet our needs and aesthetic, with Travis' help regarding hi...Read more about Woodcrafters 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 Seattle General Contractors

39716

I have used SCC multiple times and always with great results. We used them for the complete remodel of a building with a tight budget and timeline. Both were met as promised despite unexpected setbacks along the way that were out of SCC's control. We have...

- CJ Bowles
39098

We had a great experience using SCC on three different occasions in our office building. The quality of their work is top notch and they were very patient with our last-minute changes.

- Robin Nelson
15113

Gorgeous, professional tile work... I LOVE my new bathroom!

114521

CCC surpassed all of our expectations building our brand new detached dwelling across every phase of the project. A+

- Chris Raykovich
229330

Did a great job on our townhome remodel. Included a two bathrooms and kitchen. Highly recommend them!

- Brian McWethy
1349

Would recommend.

- laura morris
202275

We had a horrible experience with OTB and it continues today. With more than 25 years in architecture, I have yet to meet such a chaotic construction company. Craig Dye does not understand estimating, budgeting, construction, management, nor contracts. Th...

- Ethan Ayoubzadeh Bartos
28239

After finding Craig of Old Town Builders using Porch.com, he listened to our wants regarding our kitchen remodel. He then came back with drafts of extremely creative and practical visions which he later crafted to make our dream kitchen remodel become a r...

- Dan Dubrow
22722

I wanted a covered walkway from my driveway to my house. I had imagined something pretty functional. Craig made a few enhancements to the design that completely transformed it. Now I have an entrance that is a visual focal point of the house. Old Town...

- Cathy S
45347

Quick, professional service at reasonable pricing! Craig and Matt have been a pleasure to work with (I've used them for a few projects around my house), and am very pleased with the results! I will continue to use Old Town Builders for any future projects...

- Chris Gaffney
42579

Craig remodeled a couple of bathrooms for us and then also did some minor updates elsewhere. Craig's team was top notch in terms of both the quality of the work and the professionalism throughout. Craig kept me in loop along the way, so we were involved ...

- Rob Pulciani
22357

We were delighted with the kitchen remodel. Craig was especially good at coming up with ideas to improve the design and to deal with the *surprises* our old house served up. I would definitely recommend Old Town Builders for kitchen and bath remodels an...

- Karen Auletta

Everything You Need to Know About Seattle General Contractors

Should I hire general contractors with lower ratings in Seattle to save money?

The type of general contractor company that you should hire really depends on the difficulty and specifications of your project. Keep in mind that lower ratings could be a sign of unsuccessful jobs or simply that the professional or company has not done many jobs quite yet. Either way, you will still want to contact any General Contractors you are considering and inquire about their work history. There are plenty of great General Contractors in Seattle that have very few or low ratings.

For example, right now in Seattle there are:

    Will General Contractor Services work in Seattle require permits, inspections, special licenses, etc.?

    Whether you’re general contractor job is in Seattle or any other city, you're going to want to do a bit of research before hiring general contractors. Even small jobs may have certain regulations around them. Often, the general contractor performing the work will have any required permits, inspections, etc. under control, but not always. Short answer: Research yourself and double check with the general contractor services folks that everything is in order.

    How does invoicing/payment work for most General Contractor projects in Seattle?

    Every project differs, but you should ask any general contractor for an estimate, before they do any work. In fact, ask for their general payment terms before any general contractor services work is done.

    If the job is large and going to take longer than a day, it's common practice for general contractors to request a down payment. Usually, this will be around 25% so they can commence work on your general contractor project.

    If it's a quick job, you'll likely be given an invoice/bill when the job is complete. Then it's up to you and the general contractor to determine if you pay immediately or can send payment at a later date.

    All General Contractors in Seattle, WA

    Porch Pro Headshot Seattle Custom Contractors
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    (4)
    At SCC, we are a full service turnkey design and build general contractor, specializing in residential home building, major remodels, and renovations. We have built our company from building custom homes and remodels for exacting clientele for both personal use as well as investments. We offer eve...Read more about Seattle Custom Contractors
    At SCC, we are a full service turnkey design and build general contractor, specializing in residential home building, major remodels, and renovations. We have built our company from building custom homes and remodels for exacting clientele for both personal use as well as investments. We offer eve...Read more about Seattle Custom Contractors
    Porch Pro Headshot Build N Save, LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    (8)
    At Build N Save, we offer custom remodeling, small project building, and contracting services. The owner, Johnny Mak Jones, grew up in the Northwest and has lived in Seattle since 1981. He worked as a carpenter early in his career and then as superintendent for R.L. Boillin, building high end home...Read more about Build N Save, LLC
    At Build N Save, we offer custom remodeling, small project building, and contracting services. The owner, Johnny Mak Jones, grew up in the Northwest and has lived in Seattle since 1981. He worked as a carpenter early in his career and then as superintendent for R.L. Boillin, building high end home...Read more about Build N Save, LLC
    Porch Pro Headshot Sky Mountain Contractors LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    (7)
    When you're looking for a landscape design and installation, or complete remodel, that will make your property stand out, turn to Sky Mountain Contractors, LLC. Many area residents count on our custom landscape and remodel contractors for the beautiful results they've been dreaming of. Our husband ...Read more about Sky Mountain Contractors LLC
    When you're looking for a landscape design and installation, or complete remodel, that will make your property stand out, turn to Sky Mountain Contractors, LLC. Many area residents count on our custom landscape and remodel contractors for the beautiful results they've been dreaming of. Our husband ...Read more about Sky Mountain Contractors LLC
    Porch Pro Headshot Transblue Bellevue
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    Transblue specializes in Landscape design and construction. We proudly install, retaining walls, concrete patios, driveways, walkways, irrigation systems, hardscapes, patios, pavers, flagstone, water features, synthetic turf, and landscape lighting. We love what we do and take great pride in our ...Read more about Transblue Bellevue
    Transblue specializes in Landscape design and construction. We proudly install, retaining walls, concrete patios, driveways, walkways, irrigation systems, hardscapes, patios, pavers, flagstone, water features, synthetic turf, and landscape lighting. We love what we do and take great pride in our ...Read more about Transblue Bellevue
    Porch Pro Headshot Dyna Contracting, Inc.
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    (17)
    Dyna Contracting provides design, remodeling and home building expertise to residential and commercial clients throughout the greater Seattle area. Established in 1999, Dyna initially specialized in kitchen and bath remodels. Today, we offer full-scale renovations and new custom construction. Our p...Read more about Dyna Contracting, Inc.
    Dyna Contracting provides design, remodeling and home building expertise to residential and commercial clients throughout the greater Seattle area. Established in 1999, Dyna initially specialized in kitchen and bath remodels. Today, we offer full-scale renovations and new custom construction. Our p...Read more about Dyna Contracting, Inc.
    Porch Pro Headshot Harjo Construction Services
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    Harjo has built its reputation on being personally attentive to the unique goals and perspective of each client, with an equal commitment to quality people and construction. We have longstanding relationships across the industry with architects, subcontractors, and tradesmen of every skillset that a...Read more about Harjo Construction Services
    Harjo has built its reputation on being personally attentive to the unique goals and perspective of each client, with an equal commitment to quality people and construction. We have longstanding relationships across the industry with architects, subcontractors, and tradesmen of every skillset that a...Read more about Harjo Construction Services
    Porch Pro Headshot First Call Construction
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    First Call Construction Lynnwood, WA 98087 (253) 318-4802 First Call Construction is a Construction Company that provides good quality of services such as kitchen and bathroom remodeling, sun decks installation, garage makeovers, room additions, drywall installation and framing.For more informati...Read more about First Call Construction
    First Call Construction Lynnwood, WA 98087 (253) 318-4802 First Call Construction is a Construction Company that provides good quality of services such as kitchen and bathroom remodeling, sun decks installation, garage makeovers, room additions, drywall installation and framing.For more informati...Read more about First Call Construction
    Porch Pro Headshot Leonzo's painting and renovations, LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    Description: At Leonzo's Painting and Renovations, we believe that painting is not only about the right colors, but also about creating the beautiful space that best reflects your personality, interests, and your truest dreams! Our team of painting experts will ensure that all of your projects are ...Read more about Leonzo's painting and renovations, LLC
    100% response rate
    Description: At Leonzo's Painting and Renovations, we believe that painting is not only about the right colors, but also about creating the beautiful space that best reflects your personality, interests, and your truest dreams! Our team of painting experts will ensure that all of your projects are ...Read more about Leonzo's painting and renovations, LLC
    Porch Pro Headshot J&C construction
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    (10)
    Good work at a affordable price
    Good work at a affordable price
    Porch Pro Headshot Dog Construction
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    (13)
    Dog Construction offers General Contracting Services in the Seattle area. Call us today! We are a family own business with over 20 years of experience in the construction industry.
    Dog Construction offers General Contracting Services in the Seattle area. Call us today! We are a family own business with over 20 years of experience in the construction industry.
    Porch Pro Headshot SFW Construction  LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    (1)
    Founded in 2005 with a long and growing list of 5-star reviews from satisfied customers, we are the most experienced siding repair contractor specializing in siding repairs and replacement, dry rot repairs, leaking skylights, window installations, lead paint removal and exterior painting. We are cer...Read more about SFW Construction LLC
    Founded in 2005 with a long and growing list of 5-star reviews from satisfied customers, we are the most experienced siding repair contractor specializing in siding repairs and replacement, dry rot repairs, leaking skylights, window installations, lead paint removal and exterior painting. We are cer...Read more about SFW Construction LLC
    Porch Pro Headshot Pioneer Home Services
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    Porch Pro Headshot Ed’s Construction and Services LLC
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington
    No job is too big or too small for us.
    No job is too big or too small for us.
    Porch Pro Headshot Apadana Remodeling
    General Contractors
    Serves Seattle, Washington