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Porch Pro Headshot CARE Contracting
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(388)
"We had five (5) windows replaced in September 2016 in our kitchen area as it was drafty in the winter time. The windows really sealed up the outside cold air and it is very comfortable and warm this past winter. I noticed a drop in our heating bills as well. The crew that took out the old window...Read more about CARE Contracting
"We had five (5) windows replaced in September 2016 in our kitchen area as it was drafty in the winter time. The windows really sealed up the outside cold air and it is very comfortable and warm this past winter. I noticed a drop in our heating bills as well. The crew that took out the old window...Read more about CARE Contracting
Porch Pro Headshot Two Poor Teachers, LLC
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(114)
"Two Poor Teachers completed our kitchen Remodel in December. Jeremiah was a pleasure to work with - mindful of our budget and working with us to create our vision within our parameters. We had everything defined prior to signing our paperwork so we understood our commitment upfront. The team is...Read more about Two Poor Teachers, LLC
"Two Poor Teachers completed our kitchen Remodel in December. Jeremiah was a pleasure to work with - mindful of our budget and working with us to create our vision within our parameters. We had everything defined prior to signing our paperwork so we understood our commitment upfront. The team is...Read more about Two Poor Teachers, LLC
Porch Pro Headshot No Limits Construction, Inc.
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(30)
"Nothing but great things to say about the No Limits team. Top marks to a well oiled, focused team who came in after a master bathroom water leak disaster and took all the guesswork and uncertainty out of the equation. Lenny's quote was right on target, no surprises after the work was done; the proj...Read more about No Limits Construction, Inc.
"Nothing but great things to say about the No Limits team. Top marks to a well oiled, focused team who came in after a master bathroom water leak disaster and took all the guesswork and uncertainty out of the equation. Lenny's quote was right on target, no surprises after the work was done; the proj...Read more about No Limits Construction, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot A & L CONSTRUCTION
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(5)
"GOOD & BAD news. I am glad I first visited www.remodelingadvice.info & downloaded useful & free information about my project. Because I did not know what I should look for when selecting my Contractor. The (GOOD) thing about the company you are looking up on this profile right now, is that they...Read more about A & L CONSTRUCTION
"GOOD & BAD news. I am glad I first visited www.remodelingadvice.info & downloaded useful & free information about my project. Because I did not know what I should look for when selecting my Contractor. The (GOOD) thing about the company you are looking up on this profile right now, is that they...Read more about A & L CONSTRUCTION
Porch Pro Headshot ACA Contracting Inc.
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(7)
We take the time to construct all projects to perfection, paying particular attention to details that are specific to our customer's requests. We work closely with our customers to design and build according to their individual needs. We take care of our customers and always strive to deliver an a...Read more about ACA Contracting Inc.
We take the time to construct all projects to perfection, paying particular attention to details that are specific to our customer's requests. We work closely with our customers to design and build according to their individual needs. We take care of our customers and always strive to deliver an a...Read more about ACA Contracting Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Showcase Home Improvements,Inc
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(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 RENOVATIONS AND DESIGNS
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(39)
RENOVATIONS AND DESIGNS in Queenland, MD is a trusted vinyl siding company that has earned themselves an outstanding 5-star rating from previous clients.
RENOVATIONS AND DESIGNS in Queenland, MD is a trusted vinyl siding company that has earned themselves an outstanding 5-star rating from previous clients.
Porch Pro Headshot Handy1 LLC
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(29)
Handy1, LLC is a limited liability company registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The company is headquartered in Chantilly, VA. Handy1 LLC operates as a Class A Licensed contractor in Virginia. We are also licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia a Plumbing, Electrical and Gas Fitting Contractor...Read more about Handy1 LLC
Handy1, LLC is a limited liability company registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The company is headquartered in Chantilly, VA. Handy1 LLC operates as a Class A Licensed contractor in Virginia. We are also licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia a Plumbing, Electrical and Gas Fitting Contractor...Read more about Handy1 LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Washington Dulles Taxi Cabs
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
If you're searching for quality taxi service in Ashburn, VA, just make a call to Washington Dulles Taxi Cabs IAD Airport Taxi, Taxi Services, Taxi Cab Services, Cab Services, Airport Taxi, Airport Cab, Residential Pick Up Services, Corporate Accounts, Airport Transportation Services, Tours Available...Read more about Washington Dulles Taxi Cabs
If you're searching for quality taxi service in Ashburn, VA, just make a call to Washington Dulles Taxi Cabs IAD Airport Taxi, Taxi Services, Taxi Cab Services, Cab Services, Airport Taxi, Airport Cab, Residential Pick Up Services, Corporate Accounts, Airport Transportation Services, Tours Available...Read more about Washington Dulles Taxi Cabs
Porch Pro Headshot Daves Contracting
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(13)
Located in Sterling, Daves Contracting is a remodeling contractor that has been providing attic restoration, wainscoting, bedroom remodeling and other services since 1996.
Located in Sterling, Daves Contracting is a remodeling contractor that has been providing attic restoration, wainscoting, bedroom remodeling and other services since 1996.
Porch Pro Headshot HC&R Group, LLC
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
When you can't find the source of your draft, call upon the window repairmen at HC&R Group in Mercersville, MD and have them lend you a helping hand.
When you can't find the source of your draft, call upon the window repairmen at HC&R Group in Mercersville, MD and have them lend you a helping hand.
Porch Pro Headshot CELLKO CONSTRUCTION GROUP
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(4)
With CELLKO CONSTRUCTION GROUP in Edgemont, MD attention to detail, you can rest easy knowing your home will receive a quality carpet installation that you will enjoy for years to come.
With CELLKO CONSTRUCTION GROUP in Edgemont, MD attention to detail, you can rest easy knowing your home will receive a quality carpet installation that you will enjoy for years to come.
Porch Pro Headshot Majestic Hardscapes LLC
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(25)
Majestic hardscapes contracting LLC in Hillsboro is one of the best vinyl siding companies around. Give them a call the next time you need a helping hand.
100% response rate
Majestic hardscapes contracting LLC in Hillsboro is one of the best vinyl siding companies around. Give them a call the next time you need a helping hand.
Porch Pro Headshot NVA Home Improvements
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
Here at NVA Home Improvements we work hard ever day to remain the top choice for any residential & professional painting & drywall and any home improvement projects. From painting & drywall to carpentry & handyman service, we cover it all. Our staff has the experience to do every job the right way....Read more about NVA Home Improvements
Here at NVA Home Improvements we work hard ever day to remain the top choice for any residential & professional painting & drywall and any home improvement projects. From painting & drywall to carpentry & handyman service, we cover it all. Our staff has the experience to do every job the right way....Read more about NVA Home Improvements
Porch Pro Headshot Alura Trailer
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
Alura Trailer design & manufactures best useful trailers and mobile workshop truck bodies to meet customer requirements with high standards. Alura specializes in the production of special lowbed trailers like extendable, hyraulic and self steered semi low loaders, special design flatbed trailers th...Read more about Alura Trailer
Alura Trailer design & manufactures best useful trailers and mobile workshop truck bodies to meet customer requirements with high standards. Alura specializes in the production of special lowbed trailers like extendable, hyraulic and self steered semi low loaders, special design flatbed trailers th...Read more about Alura Trailer
Porch Pro Headshot " ALPHA "  Contracting llc
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(1)
CLASS " A " (&) B.L.D. GENERAL CONTRACTOR
CLASS " A " (&) B.L.D. GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Porch Pro Headshot Locksmith Sterling VA
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
When it comes to commercial locksmith services, nobody takes better care of your business than Locksmith Sterling VA. Contact us at (703) 972-4105 for more information.
When it comes to commercial locksmith services, nobody takes better care of your business than Locksmith Sterling VA. Contact us at (703) 972-4105 for more information.
Porch Pro Headshot Galaxy Construction
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
(34)
Home remodeling contractors
Home remodeling contractors
Porch Pro Headshot Emerson Towing LLC.
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
Emerson Towing LLC offers exceptional Towing Services - 24/7 Towing Service, Lock-outs, Roadside Assistance, Buy Junk Car, Junk Cars Towing, Tire Change, and Towing Recovery in Sterling, VA. If you want to know more about our company, get in touch with us now. Emergency Towing Company Oak Grove, VA;...Read more about Emerson Towing LLC.
Emerson Towing LLC offers exceptional Towing Services - 24/7 Towing Service, Lock-outs, Roadside Assistance, Buy Junk Car, Junk Cars Towing, Tire Change, and Towing Recovery in Sterling, VA. If you want to know more about our company, get in touch with us now. Emergency Towing Company Oak Grove, VA;...Read more about Emerson Towing LLC.
Porch Pro Headshot concrete enhancements
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
www.concrete-enhancements does all types of concrete overlays, staining, flooring, etc. Now offering the best basement flooring you can get, a solid surface concrete floor that looks like wood. Also we are specializing in carved textured overlays for outdoors or indoors. Very unique services that ar...Read more about concrete enhancements
www.concrete-enhancements does all types of concrete overlays, staining, flooring, etc. Now offering the best basement flooring you can get, a solid surface concrete floor that looks like wood. Also we are specializing in carved textured overlays for outdoors or indoors. Very unique services that ar...Read more about concrete enhancements
Porch Pro Headshot E & G Lawn and Landscaping
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
E & G Lawn and Landscaping gives you the top quality services that you deserve. For more information about our services and pricing please feel free to call us. Lawn Maintenance, Lawn Setting, Irrigation, Fertilization, Landscaping, Lawn Irrigation, Lawn Care Wolf Trap, VA;Great Falls, VA;Lansdowne,...Read more about E & G Lawn and Landscaping
E & G Lawn and Landscaping gives you the top quality services that you deserve. For more information about our services and pricing please feel free to call us. Lawn Maintenance, Lawn Setting, Irrigation, Fertilization, Landscaping, Lawn Irrigation, Lawn Care Wolf Trap, VA;Great Falls, VA;Lansdowne,...Read more about E & G Lawn and Landscaping
Porch Pro Headshot WESCOND PAINT & CONSTRUCTION / EW Painting
Based in Centreville, WESCOND PAINT & CONSTRUCTION / EW Painting is a remodeling contractor. Since 1984, they have been providing carport installation, accessibility construction and more.
Based in Centreville, WESCOND PAINT & CONSTRUCTION / EW Painting is a remodeling contractor. Since 1984, they have been providing carport installation, accessibility construction and more.
Porch Pro Headshot Macanson Construction
Serves Ashburn, Virginia
Fox Remodeling Craftsmen, based in Clifton, is a remodeling specialist that provides interior remodeling, sunroom construction, stair design, and custom closet design.
Fox Remodeling Craftsmen, based in Clifton, is a remodeling specialist that provides interior remodeling, sunroom construction, stair design, and custom closet design.
Porch Pro Headshot G.W. Hastings Contracting Inc.
Serves Ashburn, Virginia

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Frequently asked questions about general contractors

What do general contractors do?

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.

Should I hire a general contractor or use multiple subcontractors?

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.

How to work with a home contractor?

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

How do general contractors get paid?

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.

How to find a good remodeling contractor?

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.

How do I hire a contractor in my area?

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.

What insurance does a general contractor need?

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

39034

My experience as an Alpha contracting customer was very positive . Mr. Rodriguez always went the extra mile to ensure my complete customer needs and concerns were always addressed in a timely manner with open lines of communication and attention to deta...

- Cindy Russell
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
55713

I am a Realtor that refers Chris Bazow from Window Source of Virginia. I have sent him to numerous clients. Every single one has said that not only has his pricing been excellent (better than other window/door companies), but the service and installatio...

- Trish Corvelli
56880

We upgraded all the windows and front door on our house in northern VA. The installers were super professional and went above and beyond to make sure we were satisfied. Great quality products and great service. Thanks Window Source of Virginia!

- Jared Smith
55789

Window Source of Virginia was extremely knowledgeable about Windows & Doors. We were looking to replace all windows and considering new entry doors; our goals were energy efficiency and safety. We were provided with multiple options at multiple price poi...

- Erica Selekman
56697

We had 22 Windows and 2 doors replaced. The product was high quality and the installation exceptional. We highly recommend Window Source of Virginia.

- John B.

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