A remodel is likely to be one of the largest checks you write for your home. This guide explains how to scope a project, compare general contractors in your area and keep the job on budget.
Typical general contracting costs
National ballpark ranges for planning only — not quotes. What you pay depends on scope, materials, access and your local market, so always compare written estimates.
| Service | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Bathroom remodel | $8,000 – $30,000 |
| Kitchen remodel | $15,000 – $60,000+ |
| Room addition | $80 – $200+ per sq ft |
| Basement finishing | $20 – $50 per sq ft |
| Contractor management fee | Often 10% – 20% of project cost |
How general contracting needs vary by region
Climate changes what matters most, what fails first and when to book. Find your region below.
| Region | What changes |
|---|---|
| Hot & humid South AL, AR, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX | Moisture control, ventilation and storm-resistant construction matter for remodels in this region. Ask how the contractor manages permits and inspections. |
| Hot & dry Southwest AZ, NM, NV | Heat affects scheduling and materials in this region; ask how the crew plans exterior work during extreme temperatures. |
| Mixed / four-season DC, DE, KS, KY, MD, MO, NC, OK, TN, VA, WV | Remodeling in this region typically involves local permits and inspections. Ask the contractor to pull permits in their own name. |
| Cold North & Mountain AK, CO, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SD, UT, VT, WI, WY | Construction seasons in this region are shaped by winter. Ask how weather delays are handled in the contract. |
| Mild West Coast CA, OR, WA | Permit and inspection timelines in this region vary by city. Ask how long permits currently take before you set a schedule. |
How to hire the right general contractor
- Define the scope and budget, including a contingency of 10–20% for surprises.
- Collect three or more detailed bids with itemized costs and clear allowances.
- Check license, insurance, references and recent project photos.
- Confirm who pulls permits, and the schedule for inspections.
- Use a written contract with a payment schedule tied to completed work, not dates.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Are you licensed in your state and insured?
- Who is on site day-to-day, and how often will you update me?
- What is included in each allowance, and how are overages handled?
- How are change orders priced and approved?
- Will you provide lien waivers as you are paid?
Red flags to watch for
- A large up-front payment far beyond a modest deposit.
- No written contract or vague scope.
- No permits for work that requires them.
- Reluctance to provide references or insurance.
Licensing and verification
Contractor licensing is handled at the state level in many states and locally in others, and permits are generally required for structural, electrical and plumbing work. Verify with your state's licensing authority and your local building department.
When to schedule
Good contractors book out weeks or months. Start planning and collecting bids well before you want work to begin.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I put down?
What is a change order?
Do I need permits?
General Contracting by city
Local notes for 155 cities — licensing bodies, climate and seasonal timing.
Other guides
AllCityPros is an independent information resource. We do not endorse, rate or vouch for any specific business, and nothing here is professional advice. Cost ranges are national ballparks and are not quotes. Always verify licences, insurance and references yourself.