Kukun helps homeowners buy and renovate to maximize home equity

Find The Best Contractors In Your Neighborhood

The only unbiased fully comprehensive contractor ratings available

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Best Contractors Near Me

Find the most reliable contractors


Over a million contractors and 100 million projects nationwide.
The only unbiased reliability ratings of local contractors based on years in business, number of projects, and more
Background checks reflecting better business bureau status, license, and user satisfaction ratings.
Easy to use search filters so you can find the best contractor for your project
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With your address we will identify the top rated contractors in your neighborhood. Within seconds, you'll see a comprehensive list of contractors, by contractor type, along with their nearby completed projects

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See individual contractor profiles to compare their qualifications, and look into their recent projects to get a feel for the kind of work they specialize in.

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When you discover a contractor in your neighborhood who meets your requirements, simply select the "contact" button in their profile to send them a message. The more you reach out to, the better chance you have of finding just the right one.

Popular Remodeling Projects



Discover reliable remodeling contractors through unbiased ratings; at Kukun, contractors cannot pay to get introduced to you. You select them.

Introducing

Kukun Reliability Rating

Kukun
Reliability Rating


The best contractors don't advertise

The contractors you want for your project get most of their business through referrals. The Kukun reliability rating is like your insider'sreferral.

Our team of data scientists leverage data from local municipalities and online records to provide precise and current information about each contractor.

Find the best contractors near you with Kukun's verified contractor database


Search over 1 million licensed general contractors, specialty trades, and remodeling professionals in your neighborhood. Compare contractors near me by ratings, licenses, completed projects, and real customer reviews.


Looking for general contractors near you? Enter your zip code to instantly discover:


  • Licensed and insured contractors in your area
  • Verified building permit history showing real work
  • Unbiased reliability ratings from actual project data
  • Background checks, including BBB status and license verification
  • Customer reviews and completed project portfolios

Why homeowners choose Kukun to find a contractor: Unlike paid lead services, our contractors can't pay for placement. You see unbiased rankings based on years in business, project volume, license status, and customer satisfaction. Find general contractors near me for kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, additions, roofing, HVAC, plumbing, electrical work, and more.


What type of contractor do you need?

  • General Contractors
  • Kitchen & Bathroom Contractors
  • Electricians
  • Plumbers
  • HVAC Contractors
  • Roofing Contractors

Step 1: Search for Licensed Contractors in Your Area


Enter your location to instantly find general contractors near me and specialty trades serving your neighborhood. Our database includes:


  • General contractors near me - for full home remodels, additions, and multi-trade projects
  • Specialty contractors near me - electricians, plumbers, HVAC, roofers, and more
  • Kitchen and bathroom contractors - experts in high-value remodel projects
  • Home builders - new construction and major additions
  • Emergency contractors - 24/7 services for urgent repairs


Every contractor in our database is verified for:


  • Active contractor license (state-by-state verification)
  • Insurance coverage (liability and workers' compensation)
  • Business registration and physical address
  • Better Business Bureau standing
  • Building permit history (see actual completed work)

Step 2: Compare Contractors Using Kukun's Reliability Rating™


The Kukun Reliability Rating is the only unbiased contractor scoring system based on actual project data, not paid advertisements.

Our data science team analyzes:


  • Years in business - Experience and stability
  • Number of completed projects - Volume and expertise
  • Building permit records - Verified work history
  • License status - Active, no violations
  • Customer satisfaction ratings - Real reviews from homeowners
  • BBB rating - Complaint history and resolution

Why this matters when you find a contractor: The best general contractors near me don't need to advertise; they get most work through referrals. Our reliability rating is like having an insider referral for every contractor in your area.


Step 3: Contact Multiple Contractors to Compare Quotes


When you find contractors near me that meet your requirements:


  • 1 Review their profile - See completed projects, specializations, and credentials
  • 2 Check building permit history - View actual work in your neighborhood
  • 3 Read customer reviews - Real homeowner experiences
  • 4 Compare qualifications - License type, insurance, years in business
  • 5 Contact 3-5 contractors - Get multiple quotes to compare pricing and approach

Pro Tip: The best contractors often have 2-4 week lead times. Plan ahead when you search for general contractors near me for major projects.

Unbiased Contractor Rankings (Not Paid Placement)


When you search for "contractors near me" on other platforms, you're often seeing paid advertisements disguised as results. Kukun contractors cannot pay to be featured. Rankings are based purely on:


  • Verified license and insurance status
  • Actual completed project volume
  • Building permit records (public data)
  • Customer satisfaction scores
  • Years in business and stability
  • Better Business Bureau ratings

Result: When you find a contractor through Kukun, you're seeing the most qualified professionals, not the ones who paid the most for advertising.


See Actual Completed Work Through Building Permits


Kukun's exclusive advantage: We show you building permit records for every contractor.


When you search for general contractors near me, you can:
  • See actual projects completed in your neighborhood
  • View project addresses (verify work quality by driving by)
  • Check permit types (residential, commercial, structural, etc.)
  • Confirm projects passed inspection (quality verification)
  • Review project costs and scope

This is impossible on other "find a contractor" platforms. You're not just reading what contractors claim, you're seeing documented proof of their work.


Comprehensive Background Checks


Every general contractor near me in our database undergoes verification:


License Verification:


  • Active contractor license for your state
  • Correct license type for your project (general vs. specialty)
  • No suspensions or revocations
  • Current expiration date

Insurance Verification:


  • General liability insurance ($1M-$2M minimum)
  • Workers' compensation coverage
  • Current policy dates

Business Verification:


  • Physical business address (not P.O. box)
  • Valid business registration
  • Better Business Bureau status
  • Complaint history and resolution

Financial Verification:


  • Years in business (stability indicator)
  • Project volume (experience indicator)
  • Bonding information (where applicable)

Filter by Project Type and Specialization


Finding the right contractor near me means matching your project to their expertise. Search by:


Popular Project Types:


  • Kitchen remodeling contractors
  • Bathroom renovation contractors
  • Home addition contractors
  • Basement finishing contractors
  • Roof replacement contractors
  • HVAC installation contractors
  • Whole-home remodeling contractors

Specialty Trades:


  • Licensed electricians near me
  • Licensed plumbers near me
  • HVAC contractors near me
  • Roofing contractors near me
  • Siding contractors near me
  • Flooring contractors near me
  • Window and door contractors near me

Project Scope Filters:


  • Emergency contractors (24/7 availability)
  • Residential vs. commercial contractors
  • New construction vs. remodeling specialists
  • Eco-friendly/green contractors
  • ADA-compliant contractors

General Contractors Near Me


What general contractors do: Manage entire construction projects, including permits, subcontractors, scheduling, and quality control. Best for:


  • Whole-home renovations
  • Home additions (room, second story, garage conversion)
  • Major structural projects
  • Multi-trade remodels (kitchen, bathroom, addition together)
  • New home construction

When to hire general contractors near me: Any project requiring multiple trades (plumbing, electrical, structural), permits, and coordination. General contractors serve as your single point of contact and handle all subcontractor management.


Average cost for general contractors: $50-$150 per hour or 10-20% of total project cost. For a $50,000 kitchen remodel, expect $5,000-$10,000 in general contractor fees.


Kitchen and Bathroom Contractors Near Me


Specialists in high-value remodeling, kitchen and bathroom contractors focus exclusively on these complex rooms, offering deep expertise in:


  • Custom cabinetry and countertops
  • Plumbing fixture installation
  • Electrical work (lighting, outlets, appliances)
  • Tile work and waterproofing
  • Layout optimization for function and resale value

Why specialized contractors matter: Kitchen and bathroom remodels offer the highest ROI (70-90% cost recovery) but require expertise in multiple trades, specialized contractors complete these projects faster and with better results than general contractors.


  • Minor kitchen remodel: $10,000-$26,000
  • Major kitchen remodel: $40,000-$80,000
  • Bathroom remodel: $6,000-$28,000
  • Master bath addition: $25,000-$50,000

Average project costs:


Licensed Electricians Near Me


Critical safety work requiring licensed professionals, electrical work is dangerous and strictly regulated. Always hire licensed electricians near me for:


  • Electrical panel upgrades (100 to 200+ amp service)
  • Whole-house rewiring
  • Circuit additions for new appliances
  • Outlet and switch installation/replacement
  • Lighting installation (recessed, chandeliers, exterior)
  • Generator installation and transfer switches
  • EV charger installation
  • Smart home electrical integration

Why electrician licenses matter: Unlicensed electrical work causes house fires, fails inspections, and voids insurance. Licensed electricians carry liability insurance, pull proper permits, and guarantee code compliance.


Average electrician costs: $50-$130 per hour or $150-$400 per outlet/switch, $800-$2,500 for panel upgrades, $2,000-$6,000 for whole-house rewiring.


Licensed Plumbers Near Me


Essential for water and gas work, plumbers handle all water supply, drainage, and gas line work. Hire licensed plumbers near me for:


  • Water heater installation/replacement
  • Leak repairs and pipe replacements
  • Drain cleaning and sewer line repair
  • Fixture installation (toilets, sinks, showers, tubs)
  • Gas line installation for appliances
  • Re-piping projects (whole-house or sections)
  • Bathroom and kitchen plumbing during remodels
  • Sump pump installation

Emergency plumbing: Many plumbers offer 24/7 emergency service for burst pipes, water heater failures, and major leaks.


Average plumber costs: $45-$200 per hour, $150-$450 for drain cleaning, $800-$1,500 for water heater replacement, $2,000-$15,000 for re-piping.


HVAC Contractors Near Me


Heating, cooling, and ventilation experts, HVAC contractors install, repair, and maintain climate control systems:


  • Central air conditioning installation/replacement
  • Furnace installation/replacement
  • Heat pump systems
  • Ductwork installation and repair
  • Thermostat upgrades (smart thermostats)
  • Indoor air quality systems (filters, purifiers, humidifiers)
  • Mini-split systems for room additions
  • Annual maintenance contracts

Why HVAC contractor licensing matters: Refrigerant handling requires EPA certification. Improper installation wastes energy and costs thousands in excess utility bills.


Average HVAC costs: $3,500-$7,500 for AC units, $2,500-$6,000 for furnaces, $5,000-$12,000 for complete HVAC replacement, $100-$300 for annual maintenance.


Roofing Contractors Near Me


Protect your biggest investment, your roof is your home's primary defense against the weather. Hire roofing contractors near me for:


  • Complete roof replacement
  • Roof repairs (leaks, missing shingles, storm damage)
  • New construction roofing
  • Gutter installation and repair
  • Soffit and fascia work
  • Skylight installation
  • Flat roof systems (commercial and residential)
  • Emergency roof repairs

Roofing contractor specializations: Asphalt shingles, metal roofing, tile, slate, TPO/EPDM flat roofs. Match contractor expertise to your roof type.


Average roofing costs: $5,500-$12,000 for asphalt shingle replacement, $10,000-$25,000 for metal roofing, $500-$1,500 for leak repairs.


General Contractor Rates


Hourly rates: $50-$150 per hour (varies by region and experience)


Percentage of project cost: 10-20% of total project budget


  • $50,000 project: $5,000-$10,000 contractor fee
  • $100,000 project: $10,000-$20,000 contractor fee

Factors affecting general contractor costs:


  • Project complexity (more trades = higher cost)
  • Project duration (longer jobs may discount percentages)
  • Your location (higher in major metro areas)
  • Contractor experience and demand (top contractors command premium rates)
  • Season (winter may offer discounts)

Specialty Trade Contractor Rates


Electricians: $50-$130/hour


  • Service call: $75-$150
  • Outlet installation: $150-$300 each
  • Panel upgrade: $800-$2,500

Plumbers: $45-$200/hour


  • Service call: $100-$300
  • Water heater replacement: $800-$1,500
  • Drain cleaning: $150-$450

HVAC Technicians: $75-$150/hour


  • AC replacement: $3,500-$7,500
  • Furnace replacement: $2,500-$6,000
  • Annual maintenance: $100-$300

Roofers: Per project pricing is typical


  • Asphalt shingle replacement: $5,500-$12,000
  • Roof repair: $500-$1,500
  • Gutter installation: $600-$1,800

Painters: $25-$100/hour


  • Interior room: $300-$1,000
  • Whole house interior: $3,000-$8,000
  • Exterior house: $2,500-$6,000

Get Accurate Cost Estimates for Your Project


Before you search for contractors near me, know what you should pay.


Use Kukun's Cost Estimator to get project-specific pricing based on:


  • Your exact location (regional pricing differences)
  • Project scope and materials
  • Quality level (budget, mid-range, premium)
  • Labor market conditions in your area

Get Free Cost Estimate


Then compare estimates from contractors near me to ensure you're getting fair pricing.


Before Hiring Any Contractor Near Me, Verify:


1. License and Insurance Verification


Questions to ask:
  • "What's your contractor license number?" (then verify online)
  • "Can you provide proof of liability insurance?"
  • "Do you carry workers' compensation insurance?"
  • "Is your license active and current?"

Why it matters: Unlicensed contractors leave you liable for injuries, code violations, and insurance claim denials. Always verify licenses before hiring.


Kukun advantage: We verify licenses automatically when you search for contractors near me, no manual checking required.


2. Experience and Specialization


Questions to ask:


  • "How many years have you been in business?"
  • "How many [specific project type] projects have you completed?"
  • "Can you show me examples of similar projects?"
  • "Do you specialize in my type of project?"

Why it matters: A general contractor with 20 years of experience but no kitchen remodels isn't the right fit for your kitchen project.


3. References and Portfolio


Questions to ask:


  • "Can you provide 3-5 references from recent projects similar to mine?"
  • "Can I see the addresses of completed projects in my area?"
  • "Do you have a portfolio of recent work?"
  • "What's your BBB rating?"

Why it matters: References reveal communication style, reliability, and quality. Drive by completed projects to see actual work quality.


Kukun advantage: See building permit records showing actual completed projects in your neighborhood.


4. Project Timeline and Availability


Questions to ask:


  • "When can you start my project?"
  • "How long will my project take from start to completion?"
  • "Will you be working on other projects simultaneously?"
  • "What's your daily/weekly schedule?"

Why it matters: Top contractors book 2-6 weeks out. Be suspicious of contractors who can "start tomorrow"; they may be struggling for work.


5. Pricing and Payment Terms


Questions to ask:


  • "Do you charge hourly, per project, or a percentage of costs?"
  • "What's your payment schedule?"
  • "How much deposit do you require?"
  • "What's included vs. excluded from your quote?"
  • "How do you handle change orders?"

Why it matters: Payment schedules protect both parties. Never pay more than 10-33% upfront (state laws vary).


6. Permits and Inspections


Questions to ask:


  • "Will this project require permits?"
  • "Who pulls the permits, you or me?"
  • "Are permit costs included in your quote?"
  • "How do you handle inspection failures?"

Why it matters: Unpermitted work causes problems selling your home, insurance claim denials, and code violations. Always require permits for structural, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.


7. Subcontractors and Team


Questions to ask:


  • "Do you use subcontractors for any portion of this work?"
  • "Are your subcontractors licensed and insured?"
  • "Who will be on-site daily?"
  • "How do you ensure subcontractor quality?"

Why it matters: General contractors often subcontract specialty trades. Ensure subs are licensed and insured like the general contractor.


8. Warranty and Guarantee


Questions to ask:


  • "What warranty do you offer on your work?"
  • "What's covered under the warranty and for how long?"
  • "Do you provide warranties on materials separately from labor?"
  • "How do you handle callbacks and warranty work?"

Why it matters: Standard contractor warranties: 1-2 years on labor, manufacturer warranties on materials. Get warranty terms in writing.


Red Flags When You Find Contractors Near Me


Walk away immediately if:


  • Refuses to provide license number
  • Can't provide proof of insurance
  • Demands 50%+ upfront payment
  • Only accepts cash
  • No written contract or detailed estimate
  • Pressures you to sign immediately
  • Can't provide references
  • Claims permits "aren't necessary"
  • Significantly lower bid than other contractors (40%+ below)
  • No physical business address

Find more contractor red flags


1. Unbiased Rankings (Not Paid Ads)


Other platforms: Contractors pay $30-$100 per lead. Top results are highest payers, not best qualified.


Kukun: Contractors can't pay for placement. Rankings based purely on:


  • License and insurance verification
  • Years in business
  • Number of completed projects
  • Building permit records
  • Customer satisfaction ratings
  • BBB status

Result: You see the best contractors, not the ones with the biggest advertising budgets.


2. See Real Work Through Building Permits


Exclusive Kukun feature: View building permit records for every contractor.


When you find general contractors near me on Kukun:


  • See actual project addresses in your neighborhood
  • View project types (kitchen, bathroom, addition, etc.)
  • Check project values (scope and budget)
  • Confirm permits passed inspection (quality verification)
  • Review completion dates (project duration patterns)

Why this matters: Contractors can claim anything on their websites. Building permits are public records proving actual completed work.


3. Comprehensive Contractor Profiles


Every contractor profile includes:


Credentials Section:


  • License number and type
  • License status (active, expired, suspended)
  • License expiration date
  • Insurance coverage details
  • Bonding information

Experience Section:


  • Years in business
  • Number of completed projects
  • Project types and specializations
  • Geographic service area

Work History Section:


  • Building permits pulled (last 5 years)
  • Project addresses and types
  • Permit values (project budgets)
  • Inspection results

Reputation Section:


  • Kukun Reliability Rating
  • Customer reviews and ratings
  • BBB rating and accreditation
  • Complaint history and resolution

Company Information:


  • Physical business address
  • Contact information
  • Website and social media
  • Business hours and availability

4. Compare Multiple Contractors Side-by-Side


Search results show:

  • Reliability ratings (compare at a glance)
  • Years in business
  • Number of completed projects
  • Customer ratings
  • License status
  • Specializations

Filter and sort by:

  • Distance from your location
  • Reliability rating (highest first)
  • Customer reviews (best rated first)
  • Project type specialization
  • Availability (soonest start date)

5. Direct Contractor Contact (No Lead Fees)


Other platforms charge contractors $30-$100 every time you contact them. Those costs get passed to you in higher prices.


Kukun: Free for homeowners, free for contractors. No lead fees means:


  • Contractors aren't incentivized to pressure you
  • Lower overhead = more competitive pricing
  • Contractors respond to serious inquiries only
  • No spam from contractors who paid for your contact info

How it works:

  • 1 Find contractors near me that meet your needs
  • 2 Review their profiles and credentials
  • 3 Click "Contact" to send a message directly
  • 4 Contractor responds with availability and quote
  • 5 No obligations, no lead fees, no pressure

Phase 1: Planning (Before You Search)


Step 1: Define Your Project Scope


Before you search for contractors near me:


  • Write a detailed project description
  • Measure your space (square footage)
  • Collect inspiration photos (Pinterest, Houzz)
  • Set a realistic budget (get preliminary cost estimate)
  • Determine timeline and flexibility
  • List must-haves vs. nice-to-haves

Why this matters: A clear project scope gets accurate quotes. Vague projects lead to "surprise" costs during construction.


Step 2: Get Cost Estimates First


Use Kukun's Cost Estimator before contacting contractors:


  • Know what your project should cost
  • Identify budget-busting items early
  • Make value-engineering decisions upfront
  • Spot unrealistic contractor bids (too high or too low)

Get Free Cost Estimate

Step 3: Determine Contractor Type Needed


Do you need a general contractor or specialty trades?


Hire general contractors near me for:


  • Projects requiring multiple trades
  • Projects requiring permits and coordination
  • Major renovations or additions
  • New construction
  • When you want a single point of contact

Hire specialty contractors directly for:


  • Single-trade projects (electrical only, plumbing only)
  • Smaller projects under $5,000
  • When you can manage the project yourself
  • Emergency repairs (burst pipe, electrical failure)

Phase 2: Searching for Contractors


Step 4: Search Kukun's Contractor Database


Enter your location and select project type:


  • 1 Zip code or city
  • 2 Project type (kitchen remodel, roof replacement, etc.)
  • 3 lick "Find Contractors Near Me"

Review search results:


  • Sort by Reliability Rating (highest first recommended)
  • Review contractor profiles
  • Note license status and insurance
  • Check years in business
  • Read customer reviews

Step 5: Create a Shortlist of 5-7 Contractors


Select contractors based on:


  • High Reliability Rating (4+ stars)
  • Active license and insurance
  • Experience in your project type
  • Completed projects in your area
  • Positive customer reviews
  • Reasonable availability (2-6 weeks out is normal)

Step 6: Review Building Permit History


For each shortlisted contractor:


  • Click "View Building Permits" in the profile
  • Review project types (match your project?)
  • Check project locations (your neighborhood?)
  • Review project values (similar budget?)
  • Confirm permits passed inspection

Red flag: Contractors with no building permits may not pull permits (illegal for most work).


Phase 3: Contacting and Vetting


Step 7: Request Initial Information


Contact all 5-7 shortlisted contractors with:


Subject: "Quote Request - [Project Type] - [Your City]"


Message template: "Hello [Contractor Name],


I'm planning a [project type] at my home in [city]. Project scope includes: [brief description].


Before scheduling a consultation, please confirm:


  • Are you available for new projects starting [timeframe]?
  • Can you provide your contractor license number?
  • Do you carry liability and workers' compensation insurance?
  • Do you have experience with [specific project type]?
  • Can you provide 3 recent references for similar projects?

If you're interested and available, I'd like to schedule an on-site consultation.


Thank you, [Your Name] [Your Phone]™


Step 8: Verify Credentials Before Site Visits


For contractors who respond:


  • 1 Verify license number (use Kukun or state licensing board)
  • 2 Confirm the license is active and the correct type
  • 3 Request certificate of insurance (call to verify)
  • 4 Check BBB rating
  • 5 Look up online reviews (Google, Yelp, Facebook)

Only schedule site visits with verified, licensed contractors.


Step 9: Schedule On-Site Consultations


Schedule 3-5 in-person consultations:


  • Allow 1-2 hours per contractor
  • Schedule the same week if possible (fresh comparison)
  • Prepare your scope document and inspiration photos
  • List questions to ask each contractor
  • Take notes during each meeting

During consultation, observe:


  • Punctuality (did they show on time?)
  • Professionalism (appearance, communication)
  • Listening skills (do they understand your vision?)
  • Expertise (do they offer valuable suggestions?)
  • Transparency (do they answer questions directly?)

Phase 4: Comparing Quotes


Step 10: Request Detailed Written Estimates


Every estimate should include:


  • Detailed scope of work (line by line)
  • Materials specified (brands, models, quality levels)
  • Labor costs (broken out from materials)
  • Permit costs (who obtains and pays)
  • Timeline (start date and completion date)
  • Payment schedule (deposit and milestone payments)
  • Warranty information (labor and materials)
  • Change order process (how extras are handled)

Red flags in estimates:


  • Single lump sum (no breakdown)
  • Vague descriptions ("install new kitchen")
  • No timeline specified
  • Large upfront deposit (over 33%)
  • No warranty information
  • Materials not specified ("contractor's choice")

Step 11: Compare Quotes Apples-to-Apples


Create a comparison spreadsheet:


Item Contractor A Contractor B Contractor C
Total cost $X $X $X
Materials quality Brand names Generic Mix
Timeline X weeks X weeks X weeks
Payment terms 10/40/40/10 33/33/34 50/50
Warranty 2 years 1 year 2 years
License verified
Insurance verified
References checked
Communication style Excellent Good Fair

Don't automatically choose the lowest bid. Consider:


  • Quality of materials specified
  • Contractor's experience and reputation
  • Communication and professionalism
  • Warranty coverage
  • Timeline realism

Step 12: Check References


For your top 2-3 choices, call references.


Questions to ask references:


  • 1 "What was the project and when was it completed?"
  • 2 "Did the contractor stay on schedule?"
  • 3 "Did the project stay within budget?"
  • 4 "How was communication throughout the project?"
  • 5 "Were there any surprises or issues?"
  • 6 "How were problems handled?"
  • 7 "What was the quality of work?"
  • 8 "Would you hire this contractor again?"
  • 9 "Any advice for working with this contractor?"
  • 10 "Any concerns or warnings?"

Red flags from references:


  • Went over budget significantly
  • Took much longer than promised
  • Poor communication or unresponsiveness
  • Quality issues or callbacks needed
  • Wouldn't hire again

Phase 5: Hiring and Contract


Step 13: Negotiate Final Terms


After selecting your contractor:


  • Review the contract line by line
  • Negotiate any concerns (materials, timeline, payment)
  • Clarify the change order process
  • Confirm warranty terms
  • Verify permit plan
  • Establish communication expectations

Step 14: Sign Detailed Written Contract


Contract must include:


  • Complete scope of work (detailed)
  • Materials specified (brands, models, colors)
  • Total project cost (broken down)
  • Payment schedule (tied to milestones)
  • Start and completion dates
  • Permit responsibility (who pulls and pays)
  • Change order process (written approval required)
  • Warranty terms (length and coverage)
  • Cleanup and disposal responsibilities
  • Contractor and homeowner responsibilities
  • Dispute resolution process
  • Termination clause (for both parties)

Never start work without a signed written contract.


Step 15: Verify Permits Were Pulled


After the project starts:


  • Request a copy of the building permit
  • Verify permit posted on property
  • Confirm inspections scheduled
  • Check permit status online (most cities offer a lookup)

If the contractor didn't pull the permit:


  • Stop work immediately
  • Demand a permit before continuing
  • Consider terminating the contract if they refuse

Phase 6: During Construction


Step 16: Monitor Project Progress


Weekly check-ins:


  • Walk the project with the contractor
  • Review completed work
  • Discuss any issues or concerns
  • Confirm upcoming milestones
  • Verify material deliveries

Step 17: Document Everything


Take photos/videos:


  • Before construction begins
  • Daily or weekly progress
  • Completed work (before walls close)
  • Any damage or concerns
  • Final completed project

Keep records:


  • All contractor communications (texts, emails)
  • Payment receipts
  • Material invoices
  • Change orders (written and signed)
  • Inspection reports
  • Warranty documentation

Step 18: Handle Changes Properly


If you want changes during construction:


  • 1 Discuss with the contractor
  • 2 Get a written change order with cost and timeline impact
  • 3 Sign the change order before work proceeds
  • 4 Update project budget tracker

If the contractor suggests changes:


  • 1 Ask why (unforeseen issue vs. upgrade suggestion)
  • 2 Get a written explanation and cost impact
  • 3 Consider carefully (don't rush a decision)
  • 4 Only approve via a signed change order

Phase 7: Project Completion


Step 19: Final Walkthrough


Before final payment:


  • Complete walkthrough with the contractor
  • Create a punch list of incomplete items
  • Test all systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
  • Verify cleanup complete
  • Request warranty documentation
  • Request lien releases from subcontractors

Step 20: Verify Final Inspection


For permitted work:


  • Confirm final inspection passed
  • Request a copy of the inspection report
  • Verify certificate of occupancy (if required)
  • Keep permit documentation with home records

Step 21: Make Final Payment


Only pay in full when:


  • All work completed per contract
  • Punch list items finished
  • Final inspection passed
  • Cleanup complete
  • Lien releases received
  • Warranty documentation provided

Withhold 5-10% until the punch list complete (standard practice).


Step 22: Leave Review


Help other homeowners find great contractors:


  • Return to the contractor's Kukun profile
  • Leave an honest, detailed review
  • Rate communication, quality, timeline, and value
  • Include photos of completed project (if allowed)

Your review helps others searching for contractors near me make informed decisions.


How do I find a good contractor near me?


To find good contractors near me, use Kukun's contractor database to search licensed professionals in your area. Verify their license status, check building permit records showing actual completed work, read customer reviews, compare Reliability Ratings, and contact 3-5 contractors to compare quotes. Always verify licenses and insurance before hiring.


How much do contractors near me cost?


Contractor costs vary by project type and location. General contractors charge 10-20% of project cost or $50-$150/hour. Electricians: $50-$130/hour. Plumbers: $45-$200/hour. HVAC: $75-$150/hour. Roofers: $5,500-$12,000 for full replacement. Use Kukun's Cost Estimator for project-specific pricing in your area before hiring contractors near me.


How do I verify a contractor's license?


Verify contractor licenses through your state's licensing board website or use Kukun's contractor database which automatically verifies license status. Ask contractors for their license number and check: (1) license is active, (2) correct license type for your project, (3) no suspensions or violations, (4) current insurance coverage.


What questions should I ask contractors near me?


Essential questions: (1) What's your license number? (2) Do you carry liability and workers' comp insurance? (3) Can you provide 3-5 recent references? (4) How many similar projects have you completed? (5) What's your timeline? (6) What's your payment schedule? (7) Who pulls permits? (8) What warranty do you offer? (9) Do you use subcontractors? (10) What's your process for change orders?


How do I find licensed general contractors near me?


Search Kukun's database by entering your zip code and selecting "General Contractors." Filter results by Reliability Rating and verify license status for each contractor. Review building permit records to see actual completed projects. Check customer reviews and BBB ratings. Contact 3-5 licensed general contractors to compare qualifications and quotes.


What's the difference between general contractors and specialty contractors?


General contractors manage entire construction projects, including permits, subcontractors, scheduling, and quality control, best for multi-trade projects. Specialty contractors (electricians, plumbers, HVAC, roofers) focus on specific trades, best for single-trade projects. General contractors typically subcontract specialty trades on larger projects.


How long should it take to find a contractor?


Allow 2-4 weeks to find and hire the right contractor. Week 1: Research and create a shortlist (3-5 contractors). Week 2: Schedule consultations and request quotes. Week 3: Compare quotes, check references, verify credentials. Week 4: Negotiate contract and sign. Quality contractors book 2-6 weeks out, so factor in their availability.


Should I hire the lowest-priced contractor?


No. Bids 40%+ below competitors are red flags for: unlicensed contractors, inferior materials, skipped steps, or contractors who will demand extras later. Choose contractors based on: verified license and insurance, relevant experience, strong references, detailed estimates, reasonable pricing (within 20% of average), and good communication.


Do I need a written contract with my contractor?


Yes, always require detailed written contracts before any work begins. Contracts should specify: complete scope of work, materials (brands/models), total cost breakdown, payment schedule, start/completion dates, permit responsibilities, change order process, warranty terms, and dispute resolution. Never accept handshake deals or verbal agreements.


What if my contractor does bad work?


If contractors near me perform poor quality work: (1) Document issues with photos, (2) Notify contractor in writing giving opportunity to correct, (3) Withhold final payment until corrected, (4) File complaint with state licensing board, (5) Leave honest review on Kukun, (6) File BBB complaint, (7) Consider legal action if contractor refuses to fix. Licensed contractors' bonds and insurance provide recourse.


How do I find emergency contractors near me?


For emergency repairs (burst pipes, electrical fires, roof leaks), search Kukun for contractors offering 24/7 emergency service. Filter by specialty (plumber, electrician, roofer) and call directly. Many specialty contractors offer emergency rates ($150-$300 service call) with immediate response. Keep emergency contractor contacts saved before you need them.


Can contractors near me give estimates without seeing my home?


Rough estimates are possible, but accurate quotes require on-site inspections. Contractors need to see: existing conditions, access challenges, hidden issues, and actual dimensions. Estimates without site visits often lead to significant "surprise" costs during construction. Always require in-person consultations before accepting quotes.


Verified Data You Can Trust


1 Million+ Licensed Contractors: Every contractor in our database is verified for active license status, insurance coverage, and business registration. We continuously update license status to ensure accuracy.


100 Million+ Building Permits: See actual completed work through public building permit records. Verify project types, locations, costs, and inspection results. No other platform shows real building permit history.


Unbiased Rankings: Contractors cannot pay for placement. Rankings based purely on data: years in business, project volume, license status, customer satisfaction, and BBB ratings.


No Lead Fees: Kukun is free for homeowners and contractors. No lead fees means lower overhead for contractors = more competitive pricing for you.


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Last Updated: January 2026 Database Size: 1,000,000+ licensed contractors | 100,000,000+ building permits

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