Top 10 General Contractors in Wauwatosa, WI
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 Wauwatosa General Contractors
I have worked with Good Day Construction for several years now and their level of workmanship is superior to any other contractors out there. They stand behind their work and are very flexible and accommodating to the job orders, even on a moment's notic...
From the quoting to the end of repairs Good Day Construction was easy to get ahold of, professional and repairs were complete in a timely fashion.
Excellent responsiveness in communication. Excellent value. Excellent work quality.
I have worked with Good Day for many years and their work and service is always above and beyond. I would recommend them to everyone.
Excellent responsiveness in communication. Excellent value. Very good work quality.
Good workmanship and great knowledge.
Very affordable, but I guess you get what you pay for. Jason often never showed up when he said he would, and it was like pulling teeth getting him to finish our project. He is a super nice guy, but a year after installing and grouting our bathroom tile i...
The first time I tried to schedule Shannon to come out to look at a yard project, he had a different date down than I did so we had to reschedule. That day came and he didn't show so I called to ask if he was on his way and he replied he was at another jo...
We rate Van Beek Construction 5 stars because they completed the work on time and on budget. Also they kept us informed of the progress of the work. Workers showed up when they said they would. We will hire them for our next project. Steve and Sara.
WARNING: We hired "Panda Home Improvement" to work on our home. It was unbearable. Sheer Panda-monium! Their craftsmanship and communication were beyond disappointing. We even had the owners working on our project most days! See images of our simple "6 da...
I'd like to know what other homeowners would look at this "work in progress" and seek to pay Panda in full? • • https://www.dropbox.com/sh/j5pk20dwf44w675/AABLlVjyJv90mU0D15jZrHIUa?dl=0
Awful experience. Company is not paying the plumbing contractor. We (as the paying customer) had to handle multiple issues on our own. Poor quality and absolutely no follow up and horrible communication. Job was "finished" in June after 7 long months of i...
I don’t understand why ownership would let a half crippled man go work on a roof deck by himself. The man had to carry 14 foot planks up a ladder. When relief finally arrived (he called for help many times) hours later, the man dropped a plank over the si...
Everything You Need to Know About Wauwatosa General Contractors
I have General Contractor Services work that I need done in Wauwatosa. What should my budget be?
Our data on recent general contractor projects in Wauwatosa shows that larger general contractor services projects in city are often upwards of $0.00. However, this price depends on a number of factors. Cost can increase or decrease based on any/all of the following:
- Location: general contractors travel time may factor into the budget.
- Cost of materials. This is an important factor of your general contractor services project budget. You can purchase materials yourself, but remember that your general contractor professional maybe be able to leverage relationships with other companies to save on material costs.
- Company ratings: Highly-rated general contractors tend to be more expensive. Decide what balance between ratings and cost is right for you.
As always, every project is different and you should contact multiple general contractors throughout Wauwatosa to ensure your project is done right.
How do I know that I found the right General Contractor in Wauwatosa for my general contractor services project?
Finding the right general contractor for your project can be stressful.... when you don't search with Porch. We've pulled together everything you need to know about General Contractor Services in Wauwatosa so you can have some peace of mind before starting your project.
Here’s what you need to know to choose the right general contractor in Wauwatosa:
- Are they properly licensed? Wauwatosa has 1 licensed General Contractors Pros.
- Are they BBB accredited? 8 pros in Wauwatosa are.
- Check if they are they BBB rated: 11 are A-rated in Wauwatosa.
- Is the quality worth the price? Make sure to find the general contractor that can deliver the quality you're looking for, without going way over your budget. Don't forget that every job is going to be different.
- Speak with them over the phone: Contact multiple general contractors pros to see if you’re on the same page when it comes to your project.
Who are the best General Contractors in Wauwatosa?
We've found 50 general contractor providers that are available to you in Wauwatosa.
Keep in mind that every project has different requirements, and some general contractor professionals maybe be more equipped to handle the specifications of your general contractor services work than others. Talk to multiple general contractors before deciding which one is right for you. You will want to consider how much they charge, if they are properly licensed for general contractor services work in Wauwatosa, and if your project is a fit. Here are some suggested professionals and companies to get you started:
- Reality Construction
- Location: Wauwatosa
- Milwaukee Lockstar LLC
- Location: Wauwatosa
- R & R SERVICES
- Location: Wauwatosa
All General Contractors in Wauwatosa, WI
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