Top 10 General Contractors in Washington, DC

Porch Pro Headshot Home Improvement LLc
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(42)
"Definitely would recommend Home Improvement LLC for your home repairs. Garage drywall with mold repaired. They responded quickly to my request for an estimate. The guys were so polite and efficient in their work. Very professional and it was evident that they took pride in their work. Keeping ...Read more about Home Improvement LLc
"Definitely would recommend Home Improvement LLC for your home repairs. Garage drywall with mold repaired. They responded quickly to my request for an estimate. The guys were so polite and efficient in their work. Very professional and it was evident that they took pride in their work. Keeping ...Read more about Home Improvement LLc
Porch Pro Headshot Jesus Master Handyman LLC
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
"Jesus was quick with fair proposal and quick to act on the work that needed to be done: refurbish, paint and re-roof an outdoor shed. He did exactly what was in the proposal. His project manager, Eric, was especially courteous. Great work at fair price."
99.42% response rate
"Jesus was quick with fair proposal and quick to act on the work that needed to be done: refurbish, paint and re-roof an outdoor shed. He did exactly what was in the proposal. His project manager, Eric, was especially courteous. Great work at fair price."
Porch Pro Headshot ZMD Homes, LLC
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(21)
"When I needed my roof replaced, I called multiple companies. I received a wide range of prices, many of which touted the "newest technology" in roof replacement. My old roof lasted over 30 years with the old technology. I wasn't looking to pay the extremely high dollar prices for something they ...Read more about ZMD Homes, LLC
"When I needed my roof replaced, I called multiple companies. I received a wide range of prices, many of which touted the "newest technology" in roof replacement. My old roof lasted over 30 years with the old technology. I wasn't looking to pay the extremely high dollar prices for something they ...Read more about ZMD Homes, LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Taurus Renovation & Construction
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(3)
Taurus Renovation & Construction, a Member of the Taurus Development Group is a general contractor, renovator, new home builder, energy efficiency expert and remodeling company based in downtown Washington, D.C. To contact us: (202) 759-3129 dial ext 232, 233 or 234 to speak to a professional. We...Read more about Taurus Renovation & Construction
Taurus Renovation & Construction, a Member of the Taurus Development Group is a general contractor, renovator, new home builder, energy efficiency expert and remodeling company based in downtown Washington, D.C. To contact us: (202) 759-3129 dial ext 232, 233 or 234 to speak to a professional. We...Read more about Taurus Renovation & Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Air Tasker
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(10)
"Excellent service! My drier stopped working properly due to air duct being clogged. Made an appointment with this company at the last minute, they came out on time, fixed the problem in a timely and professional manner. Very happy I called them again. Thanks guys!"
"Excellent service! My drier stopped working properly due to air duct being clogged. Made an appointment with this company at the last minute, they came out on time, fixed the problem in a timely and professional manner. Very happy I called them again. Thanks guys!"
Porch Pro Headshot Eluvial Construction Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(15)
At Eluvial Construction, our sole purpose is to save our clients the time and hassle by creating a streamlined process that allows to track and control major components of their project. This approach allows us to efficiently combine the design, permit, and construction schedules for each project, s...Read more about Eluvial Construction Inc.
At Eluvial Construction, our sole purpose is to save our clients the time and hassle by creating a streamlined process that allows to track and control major components of their project. This approach allows us to efficiently combine the design, permit, and construction schedules for each project, s...Read more about Eluvial Construction Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Hernandez home improvement
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(5)
"HERNANDEZ HOME IMPROVEMENT ~~ 5712419207 ~~~~ we want to thank all the clients who have trusted us and our work and who continue to trust us and our company ~~~~ our goal is to always do good work and that our clients always be satisfied ~~~~ thanks to all those who always recommend us ~~ and to a...Read more about Hernandez home improvement
"HERNANDEZ HOME IMPROVEMENT ~~ 5712419207 ~~~~ we want to thank all the clients who have trusted us and our work and who continue to trust us and our company ~~~~ our goal is to always do good work and that our clients always be satisfied ~~~~ thanks to all those who always recommend us ~~ and to a...Read more about Hernandez home improvement
Porch Pro Headshot Meridian Homes Inc
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(47)
We build decades of experience into your new home. Building your new home is as exciting to us as it is to you. You'll see the proof in the enthusiasm and personal involvement we bring to each project. Jonathan and Michael Lerner, the principals of Meridian Homes, will both be active participants. ...Read more about Meridian Homes Inc
We build decades of experience into your new home. Building your new home is as exciting to us as it is to you. You'll see the proof in the enthusiasm and personal involvement we bring to each project. Jonathan and Michael Lerner, the principals of Meridian Homes, will both be active participants. ...Read more about Meridian Homes Inc
Porch Pro Headshot Showcase Home Improvements,Inc
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(178)
Located in Dayton, Showcase Home Improvements is a BBB-accredited general contractor that provides storm shelter installation, garage construction, trenching and more. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has accredited them.
Located in Dayton, Showcase Home Improvements is a BBB-accredited general contractor that provides storm shelter installation, garage construction, trenching and more. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has accredited them.
Porch Pro Headshot JR GENERAL CONTRACTORS LLC
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(24)
Rated 4 stars, JR GENERAL CONTRACTORS LLC in Naval Academy, MD is here for you when you need your home windows replaced.
Rated 4 stars, JR GENERAL CONTRACTORS LLC in Naval Academy, MD is here for you when you need your home windows replaced.

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 Washington General Contractors

433130

Did not show up for appointment

- Paul Jackowski
78678

I had an out door living space created by this company They did an amazing job. They took my initial ideas and just exceeded my expectations. The time line was on point and the team effort was great. Everything from the deck and pergola to the patio and p...

- Tim Blevins
78641

My wife and I had our Washington DC property renovated by 305 Building Luxury. We have a row house located int he NE side of town, when we bought the property it was in bad shape. We hired this company and from the initial meeting to the completion it was...

- Billy Bland
435519

Great company with an amazing staff. Our bathroom looks fantastic!! What a difference our newly finished basement looks. We couldn't be more pleased. Thank You Guys

- Renovations and Designs
78789

We have a commercial building in Washington DC area in the NW section. We had 305 Building Luxury renovate the entire 4 story space. On the bottom level (stree view) we incorporated commercial space. On the other levels we had them rezone for residential ...

- Kelly Hansen
125491

Our experience with Renovations and Designs has been a grateful one over the past few years so much so that we (GOTHAM CITY DEVELOPMENTS) have now become partners with them. Together we have completed projects through out Washington DC, residentially as w...

- Wayne VH
78684

305 Building Luxury Provided us with serveral services for our row house renovation in the North East part of Washington DC on D St. We are actually once of the featured projects they have in their profile. Basically they preformed a complete tear down an...

- ACS Electric
132817

I had a total renovation done on my property. Eluvial did an amazing job. My home now looks brand new and now I am able to sell for total market value. Thank you Denise

- Denise Covington
52435

Despite a slight language barrier concern initially, Jose was a pleasure to work with from beginning to end. As a local interior designer, I needed to outsource the painting for a client and know it would be done right the first time. Jose did that, so...

- Liz Velicek
238234

DO NOT hire JR General Contractors LLC to renovate your home. They are deeply incompetent, have serious money problems, sloppy workers, and your project will take forever and might not ever be completed. We hired JR General Contractors LLC to partially ...

- Kevon Lowe
48460

July 8, 2015 Recommendation for JR GENERAL CONTRACTORS LLC I am please to provide a reference for JR General Contractors LLC. It was a pleasure to have JRGC do several jobs for me. They did demolition in my condo located in Chevy Chase, MD and constructi...

- Jose Rodriguez

All General Contractors in Washington, DC

Porch Pro Headshot Mar & Vall Construction Group
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(33)
Mar & Vall Construction Group is Family Owned and Operated with over 50 years of combined experience in the construction industry. Serving the DC metropolitan area. We do all residential projects and are always working on all types of projects, from a simple paint job to a more extensive project as...Read more about Mar & Vall Construction Group
Mar & Vall Construction Group is Family Owned and Operated with over 50 years of combined experience in the construction industry. Serving the DC metropolitan area. We do all residential projects and are always working on all types of projects, from a simple paint job to a more extensive project as...Read more about Mar & Vall Construction Group
Porch Pro Headshot RENOVATIONS AND DESIGNS
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(39)
The 5-star-rated professionals at RENOVATIONS AND DESIGNS in the Kemps Mill, MD area can upgrade your home with a carpet installation service.
The 5-star-rated professionals at RENOVATIONS AND DESIGNS in the Kemps Mill, MD area can upgrade your home with a carpet installation service.
Porch Pro Headshot Home Renovation Solutions
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(8)
Based in Rockville, Maryland, Home Renovation Solutions is a full-service remodeling company. Ira Malkin, owner, is an engineer who is well-versed in structure and design. HRS offers full kitchen and bathroom design and construction and attic and basement redesign. Our goal is to engage our custom...Read more about Home Renovation Solutions
Based in Rockville, Maryland, Home Renovation Solutions is a full-service remodeling company. Ira Malkin, owner, is an engineer who is well-versed in structure and design. HRS offers full kitchen and bathroom design and construction and attic and basement redesign. Our goal is to engage our custom...Read more about Home Renovation Solutions
Porch Pro Headshot Case Design/Remodeling Inc.               (Kitchens, Baths, Additions, Exteriors, Interiors)
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(3)
"I am an Idependent Manufacturers Representative Agency that has worked with Case for over 18 years. I have over 70 Kitchen and Bath Dealers and Remodeling Contractors that I sell to from Virginia up through New York. Case stands out by far as one of the most competent and innovative companies that ...Read more about Case Design/Remodeling Inc. (Kitchens, Baths, Additions, Exteriors, Interiors)
"I am an Idependent Manufacturers Representative Agency that has worked with Case for over 18 years. I have over 70 Kitchen and Bath Dealers and Remodeling Contractors that I sell to from Virginia up through New York. Case stands out by far as one of the most competent and innovative companies that ...Read more about Case Design/Remodeling Inc. (Kitchens, Baths, Additions, Exteriors, Interiors)
Porch Pro Headshot Majestic Hardscapes LLC
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
(25)
Fantastic vinyl siding services are awaiting you at the highly reputable Majestic hardscapes contracting LLC in the East New Market area.
100% response rate
Fantastic vinyl siding services are awaiting you at the highly reputable Majestic hardscapes contracting LLC in the East New Market area.
Porch Pro Headshot Blair Contracting Company Inc
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
Based out of Sykesville, Blair Contracting Company is a full service General Contractor specializing in remodeling. Licensed in Maryland, they will go where the work is located. They do a lot of bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, but also do decks,windows,handyman items, and so much more. Owner doe...Read more about Blair Contracting Company Inc
Based out of Sykesville, Blair Contracting Company is a full service General Contractor specializing in remodeling. Licensed in Maryland, they will go where the work is located. They do a lot of bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, but also do decks,windows,handyman items, and so much more. Owner doe...Read more about Blair Contracting Company Inc
Porch Pro Headshot Begue General Contractors Inc
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
INTERIOR DESIGN - BUILDING AND REMODELING
INTERIOR DESIGN - BUILDING AND REMODELING
Porch Pro Headshot Neville Interiors Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
Based out of Silver Spring, Neville Interiors is a general contractor. They offer home addition, bedroom remodeling, and framing as well as other services.
Based out of Silver Spring, Neville Interiors is a general contractor. They offer home addition, bedroom remodeling, and framing as well as other services.
Porch Pro Headshot MRG Services
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia
Porch Pro Headshot Appointment On Demand Inc.
General Contractors
Serves Washington, District Of Columbia

Latest projects near Washington

Recent projects booked on Porch
Hyattsville 20783
Residential Building
Start Date
Within 48 hours
Project type
Something else
Residential building project type
fences
Extent of design prep work
Yes, I have plans and all required permits
Chevy Chase 20815
Basement Waterproofing
Start Date
Within a week
Item to waterproof
Basement or foundation walls
Part of basement to waterproof
Basement interior walls
Current damage problems
Dampness or leaking
Walls and surfaces currently exposed
Yes
Washington 20017
Residential Building
Start Date
Within a year
Project type
Something else
Residential building project type
Reinforce lateral bowing
Extent of design prep work
No
Washington 20002
Skylight Installation
Start Date
Within a month
New installation or repair
Install a skylight
How many skylights to install
1
Replace existing or install new
Install a new skylight
Kind of roof
Single ply or rubber membrane
Number of stories tall
Two floors