General Contractors
Get up to 3 free quotes on your remodeling project from the best general contractors near you
Renovation Process
What is a general contractor?
A general contractor is a construction professional uniquely qualified to oversee a home renovation project. They’ll ensure quality, delegate to other professionals, and coordinate all the moving parts that come with complex building work. While simple home renovations can be accomplished by hiring different types of specialized contractors independently, a residential general contractor is necessary to manage more complex situations that arise during a home improvement project.
Plan ahead
Approach a general contractor with a clearly defined plan for your proposed home renovation. Begin the planning process by using this guide to learn more about home renovations.
Define a realistic budget
Develop a good idea of your home renovation budget before you start. Use our Cost Estimator tool to put a price tag on your desired improvements. Now, you’ll be ready to find a general contractor to help you realize your unique vision.
Compare several contractors
Submit you project to Smart Reno to be connected with general contractors in your area. Remember, the cheapest quote may not get you the best contractor. Be sure to take their professional experience and customer reviews into account.
How much does it cost to hire a general contractor?
The cost of hiring a general contractor depends on your location and the nature of your renovations. Most general contractors, do not charge by the hour; instead, they’ll work with you to agree on a flat rate for the full project, typically between 10% and 20% of the overall project costs. Negotiate with your contractor based on your needs and budget.
| Type of renovation | Predictable budget |
|---|---|
| Economic | <10% |
| Standard | 10-20% |
| High end | 25% |
General contractor costs
Do I need a general contractor?
For a remodelling project involving only one task, hiring a general contractor may not be necessary. The hourly fees for drywall or framing contractors can be lower than a general contractor’s rate; however, these specialized contractors won’t be able to coordinate a building addition or a full bathroom renovation. General contractors charge a higher rate because they can coordinate home improvements with more moving parts, delegating to more specialized subcontractors when necessary.
Tips and tricks
What can a general contractor do?
A general contractor sees that your home renovation construction proceeds in the most efficient and timely manner while staying safe and ensuring conformity to quality standards. They are key to realizing your vision and staying within budget.
Finish your basement
A general contractor can coordinate the process of turning your unfinished basement—exposed hot water pipes, mystery electrical wiring, and all—into a well-insulated space you can use for a studio, guest bedroom, or home gym.
Modernize with a kitchen renovation
Looking to optimize food preparation for your busy family? Upgrade to a luxurious, modern chef’s kitchen with general contractor services.
Fully remodel your bathroom
For one of the smallest rooms in the house, your bathroom hosts the bulk of your home’s plumbing and electrical wiring. Add in a gas water heater, and your general contractor becomes even more indispensable for your bathroom renovation.
Add an extension to your home
If you love your home, but need more space—extend it! A general contractor can oversee all the tasks involved in constructing a home addition, including hiring framers, plumbers, electricians, and drywallers as needed while ensuring that your vision is realized in full.
Tools & Calculators
Find out how much home equity you have to finance your renovation using the RBC Home Value Estimator.
Not sure what your renovation should cost you? Use the Renovation Cost Estimator to find out.
All our contrators
are verified 
Plan your renovation with expert guidance,
and let our vetted contractors compete
to win your project.
License Review
Background Check
Valid Insurance
Client Reviews
See what our clients have to say
Great tool!
Great tool to get in touch with GCs who are actually interested and serious about the work.
Aamer
Calgary, AB
Wholeheartedly recommend for any renovation work
We are very happy and satisfied with the work the contractor and his team have provided us. We appreciate his prompt response and updating us on each renovation job he was assigned. He managed to complete the renos on schedule, and as per the agreed contract. He was also kind enough to give us tips for keeping our new home in good standing. We thank Smart Reno for recommending him to us and we wholeheartedly recommend him for any renovation work.
Ajit
Missisauga, ON
Quality is truly impressive
The contractor and his team are exceptional. From start to finish the project (demolition to final painting) was handled with impeccable care to ensure maximum efficiency and minimal disruption. The quality of the work is truly impressive this can only be exhibited by an expert or master who takes great pride in their work. Highly recommend.
Maria
Mississauga
