9 Tips to Finding a Good General Contractor in Sacramento

As General Contractors ourselves, we’ve heard many horror stories from our customers about their bad experiences with other companies. Believe us, we know that there are a lot of shady, unprofessional, and downright dishonest contractors around Sacramento that have caused huge problems for many homeowners. At the same time, there are great contractors out here with the experience, expertise, and integrity to make your renovation projects effortless! If you’re ready to start a remodel, whether it's a kitchen overhaul, a bathroom upgrade, or exterior work like siding, windows, or an outdoor space, everything will rest on which contractor you decide to hire. Your choice of contractor will either make your dreams come true or throw you into a living nightmare. So here’s a quick list of nine things you should consider when searching for a good general contractor.

1. Are They Licensed and Insured?

A good contractor will be properly licensed and insured. No ifs, ands, or buts. Licensing shows that the contractor meets the qualifications required by the state and is legally permitted to complete the work you're contracting them for. Insurance will protect everyone involved in case of any accidents or property damage.

Ask for proof of licensing and insurance before hiring anyone. A good contractor will provide the necessary documents without hesitation to ensure that you won’t be held responsible for unexpected issues during the project.

2. How Experienced is the Contractor?

Experience matters. Contractors who have been in business for a long time have likely seen and handled a wide variety of projects. They are better equipped to handle challenges and can give you valuable advice about design, materials, construction, and maintenance.

Ask for examples of their past work. A contractor with experience in the specific type of renovation you’re planning is more likely to deliver high-quality results with a streamlined process.

3. What is Their Reputation?

Online reviews and references from past clients will tell you everything you need to know about a contractor. Reviews on trusted websites like Google and Yelp can’t be deleted by the business owner, so there’s no hiding from the truth. You can get a great feel for a contractor from what others had to say about them before ever having to communicate with them yourself.

If possible, take the extra step and ask the contractor for references so you can reach out to previous clients. When checking their Google reviews, use the People Often Mention feature to spot any recurring positives or negatives that their customers address. This will give you a better idea of what to expect in terms of their communication, professionalism, and the quality of their work.

4. Is the Contractor Local?

Hiring a contractor who is based in your area is always a good idea. A longtime local is an added bonus! Local contractors are more likely to know the building codes, weather conditions, and styles that work best in your region.

If your home is in a neighborhood with a homeowners association (HOA), it’s especially important to hire a contractor who understands HOA rules and is willing to abide by them. They should know how to follow local guidelines for materials, colors, and any other requirements that will ensure your project gets approved without any issues.

5. How is Their Communication?

General Contracting is all about communication. A good contractor will listen well, be detail-oriented, and keep you informed at every step of the project. From the first consultation to the final walkthrough, they should be able and willing to answer your questions, explain the process, and provide regular updates.

Pay attention to how they communicate when you first reach out. Do they respond quickly? Are they clear and helpful? Is their communication thorough and professional? You should be able to tell a lot from a single phone call.

6. Compare Multiple Estimates

It’s important to get several estimates before you make a decision, but don’t just pick the lowest bid. Cheaper isn’t always better, especially when it comes to your home. Some contractors cut corners to save costs, which often leads to problems down the road that end up costing you more.

Look for a contractor who offers a fair price while exhibiting quality materials and workmanship. A detailed written estimate that breaks down costs for labor, materials, and other expenses will help you make an informed choice.

7. Is the Contractor Trustworthy and Patient?

Skill is only one side of the coin. A great contractor should also be someone you can trust. One of the best tells for a contractor’s integrity is their patience. A reliable contractor understands that renovations can be an overwhelming endeavor for many homeowners. They’ll be willing to take the time to listen to your ideas, answer your questions, and explain their processes clearly. If you feel like they’re rushing you into making decisions or are placing you on the backburner, it could be a red flag that they’re prioritizing money or other clients over you.

When meeting with contractors, pay attention to how they interact with you. Are they respectful and attentive? Do they seem genuinely interested in understanding your needs? A trustworthy contractor will work hard to build a relationship based on honesty and mutual respect.

8. Support Local Small Businesses

Hiring a locally-owned contractor over a large corporation means you’ll be benefitting your community and likely receive a more personalized service. Small businesses tend to take extra pride in their work and are often more motivated to maintain their reputation within the local area. The very real benefit for your community is supported by an economic study done in Portland, Maine that discovered that local services generate 90% more money for the local economy than large service corporations. Opting for a local contractor will recirculate your money into the community and benefit your neighbors.

9. Review the Contract

Before starting the project, make sure you have a detailed written contract that outlines everything, from the timeline to payment schedules, materials, and warranties. A clear contract helps avoid misunderstandings and sets expectations for both you and the contractor. If there’s any hesitancy or incompetence on the contractor's side in providing this documentation, you should look elsewhere.

Why Central Builders is Sacramento’s Top Choice

For homeowners in the Sacramento region, Central Builders stands out as a trusted, reliable, and skilled option for all types of remodeling needs. Here’s how we check every box:

• Fully Licensed and Insured
  Central Builders is fully licensed and insured, so you know your project is in safe hands. We follow all state rules and building codes, so you can trust that your investment is secure when you work with us.

• Years of Experience
  With years of experience working on kitchens, bathrooms, decking, and more, we’ve handled all types of home improvement projects. Whether it’s a small upgrade or a big renovation, our team has seen it before. You can count on high-quality results with us every time.

• 5-Star Reputation
  Homeowners in Sacramento love Central Builders. Our glowing reviews and 5-star rating is our pride and joy! We’re grateful to have earned the trust of our community with hard work and a dedication to customer care.

• Locally-Owned
  As Sacramento natives, Central Builders have built their home and small business in this community. We know the local building codes and specific climate considerations that can affect your project. We understand HOA communities and always make sure to closely follow any neighborhood rules and regulations.

• Clear Communication
  Poor communication is never a problem with Central Builders. We keep you updated throughout the entire process, answer your questions quickly, and explain everything in a way that’s easy to understand. As a small business, we’re able to take the time and energy to care for you on a personal level.

• Premium Quality
  Central Builders is known for their excellent craftsmanship. We use high-quality materials and pay close attention to the small details. Our focus on premium craftmanship means your home will not only look better but also function better for years to come.

Ready to start your project? Contact us today for a free estimate and see why so many Sacramento homeowners trust us for their renovations.