What does a general contractor do?

<div>General contractors are the ones that coordinate home construction projects. They are in charge of the day-to-day oversight of the subcontractors to ensure that the project is completed on time and to resolve problems as they arise. General contractors:<ul><li>Complete pre-construction planning, both with the customer and crew</li><li>Provide realistic cost estimates</li><li>Develop construction timelines</li><li>Ensure deadlines are met</li><li>Acquire permits as needed</li><li>Purchase supplies and materials</li></ul></div>

What questions should I ask a general contractor?

<div>Before hiring a general contractor for your home project, it’s a great idea to write down a list of questions to discuss with each prospect. Some example questions to get you started include:<ul><li>Which types of insurance do you carry?</li><li>Can you provide a list of references?</li><li>What is the expected timeline for this project?</li><li>How will my project be supervised?</li><li>Will you hire subcontractors for the job?</li><li>What is the best way to communicate changes?</li><li>Will you obtain all of the required building permits?</li></ul></div>

Should general contractors be certified or licensed?

<div>While city and state laws vary on general contractor licensing requirements, hiring an unlicensed general contractor could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations. Be sure to check our <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">state licensing tool</a> to review the local general contractor guidelines for your area.As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include: <ul><li>The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check</li><li>Required to have applicable state and local licenses</li><li>Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review</li><li>Paying to advertise their services</li><li>Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi</li></ul>Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.</div>

Top 10 Best Contractors in Lockport, IL

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Verified Reviews for Contractor Service pros in Lockport, IL

*The Angi rating for Contractor Service companies in Lockport, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Contractor Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Contractor Service companies in Lockport, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Contractor Service needs.

Last update on August 11, 2025

Reviewed in January 2024
Van K Carpentry did an excellent job. My kitchen door was replaced quickly and effectively. Their communication skills were outstanding, and the pricing was clear and concise.
Van K Carpentry
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Reviewed in October 2022
So pleased with the work of Jose at JSB Carpentry and HandymanLLC. Very professional, good communication. My work request was restoration of wood deck over 34 years old. Iâ m very pleased with the end result. I highly recommend this company.
JSB Carpentry and Handyman, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2016
The crew was very hard working and conscious to make sure everything went smoothly and always cleaned up after themselves. The carpentry work and tile work was flawless. Was told it would be a two week job and that it was.
RBR Total Home Remodeling
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Reviewed in July 2015
In addition to excellent workmanship, TC Majer Carpentry provided outstanding communication. Kept us up to date on the progress, and we worked together to resolve any "surprises" encountered in construction. Also daily cleanup was wonderful.
TC MAJER CARPENTRY,INC.
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Reviewed in June 2014
The two ladies that came out were wonderful, they worked hard and cleaned. The person that took the order might not have estimated correctly, because they were not able to finish in the time frame. A third of the house was left unfinished.
A1 Polish Services Inc
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Reviewed in February 2014
We are very happy with the work Tammie and her crew did for us. So pleased, in fact, that we are looking to have Armored Floors come back when we are ready to have our now unfinished basement, eventually finished with epoxy coated concrete slab flooring.
ARMORED FLOORS INC
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Reviewed in August 2013
Ron Scherer, owner of RCS Drywall & Construction, is a seasoned journeyman carpenter who understands building construction & carpentry very well. In addition to the major projects above, he has done numerous small repair and remodeling jobs in our home. He gets a great deal done in a short...
RCS Drywall & Construction
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Reviewed in February 2013
As a single woman living alone, I felt very safe with all the workmen. Having Splash Carpentry do such great work in my home I know I?ll be having more work done and will call them when I have work that they do. They were prompt, cheerful, courteous, and kind. Thanks Splash Guys!! Contact...
Splash Carpentry
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Reviewed in August 2011
Midwest Painting was very careful with not damaging our plantings that encircle most of the house. Cleanup after the initial scraping and power washing was great, along with the final cleanup after the project was completed. The carpentry was exceptional when it came to replacing the rotted wood...
Midwest Painting
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Reviewed in April 2011
I would recommend them. Their price is reasonable. They have excellent carpentry skills.
Bison Enterprises
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Contractors in Lockport

Lookswell Painting and Handyman Services

Lookswell Painting and Handyman Services

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 94% of Angi customers

75 local quotes requested

Lookswell Painting has been serving clients as a family owned business since 1963. We are a full service painting contractor specializing in residential painting and decorating, commercial and industrial painting, and cabinet refinishing and restoration. Request a quote, or email us at [email protected] for immediate service. We are a licensed contractor with over 50 years of experience. We understand that quality goes a long way in making your surroundings look fresh and up to date. We use the finest materials when we work on any project resulting in high quality and lasting results.

"The Lookswell team, especially Jim, Omar & Cindy, were exceptionally professional & dedicated to the task. The final work looks great, appreciated the level of experience that allowed them to deal with our old house."

Charles F on January 2021

MTL Group Corporation

MTL Group Corporation

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

118 local quotes requested

MTL Group is a construction company specializing in all carpentry. We provide efficient, affordable, quality work. We have over 20 plus years of experience in carpentry. From building houses to remodeling small kitchens. We will get the job done.

"It went great! Sean figured out the problem and improved the support for the sagging cabinet."

Eileen C on July 2025

"It went great! Sean figured out the problem and improved the support for the sagging cabinet."

Eileen C on July 2025

Creative Custom Cabinet & Bookcase LLC

Creative Custom Cabinet & Bookcase LLC

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 94% of Angi customers

177 local quotes requested

My Name is John Mix owner an operator of Creative Custom Cabinet & BookCase LLC. Licenced and Bonded. I build custom cabinet .install flooring, remodel kitchen , built deck, painting . I am a small business owner fulfilling my dream.

"Great! I had to be very patient, but he did an excellent job. The shelves are good quality and beautiful!!"

Brenda B on August 2025

"Great! I had to be very patient, but he did an excellent job. The shelves are good quality and beautiful!!"

Brenda B on August 2025

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

13 local quotes requested

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from the start to the completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"I wanted to share how happy we are with the work MJ and Lincoln Renovations did on our home. They completely transformed our space with a new laundry room, a beautiful bathroom, and a gorgeous new fireplace. We're so impressed with their/his attention to detail and how dedicated they were to getting things right. While we did run into a few small issues along the way, they were quick to fix them and kept us in the loop the whole time. We'd recommend them to anyone looking for a skilled, honest, and hardworking contractor."

Joseph A on March 2025

Go Easy Construction

25w 150 Fairmeadow Lane

25w 150 Fairmeadow Lane

Customers say: Quick response

10 local quotes requested

1 years of experience

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Chris did a coffered ceiling and crown molding with wainscoting. He did an amazing job. Very professional, detailed, timely and respectful. I could not be happier with his work and can definitely recommend him. Five stars!"

Dana P on March 2025

A New Look Construction, LLC

A New Look Construction, LLC

Customers say: Quick response

5 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

I pride myself on my professionalism, as well as my ability to complete every job to the homeowner's total satisfaction. I never leave a job unfinished, or a homeowner not 100% satisfied with my level of service - Call today!

"5 stars!! Could not have been happier with the work performed in my house. Jason went beyond all of my expectations. All of the work was completed on time and professionally. Jason discussed the entire project, in detail, with me before we began. I could not find a fault with any portion of the work. I highly recommend A New Look Construction for any carpentry. "

Daniel O on June 2025

All Service Calls, LLC

All Service Calls, LLC

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

22 years of experience

Here at All Service Calls LLC, we pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity and quality work. We strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all of our projects, no matter how big or small. We are experts in our trade and will always keep you educated on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Timely and professional. Responsive and completed the job faster than expected with cleanup. "

Collin C on January 2025

"Timely and professional. Responsive and completed the job faster than expected with cleanup. "

Collin C on January 2025

Supreme Drywall and Painting, LLC

Supreme Drywall and Painting, LLC

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

14 years of experience

Supreme Drywall & Painting is a third-generation family-owned construction company that serves the greater Chicagoland area. Supreme Drywall & Painting is much more than drywall and painting: we are here for your complete residential or commercial indoor/outdoor remodeling needs! With 30 years of experience, Supreme Drywall & Painting is dedicated to ensuring that our customer satisfaction is our top priority. Supreme Drywall & Painting will always finish the job, no matter what, and we are a company you can trust!

"Responsive, did the work when he said he would."

Suzanne D on September 2021

"Responsive, did the work when he said he would."

Suzanne D on September 2021

Daniel Henry Builders, Inc.

Daniel Henry Builders, Inc.

Customers say: Quality work

28 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

At Daniel Henry Builders, Inc., we are a family owned and operated business. We started this business in 1997 and our company's specialties range from building to additions to remodeling. We are an experienced custom home builder, modular home builder as well and we offer everything you may need for your kitchen, bath, or basement remodel, from simple installation to detailed design. Please give us a call and thank you for doing so.

"No comments."

Jamie L on April 2020

"No comments."

Jamie L on April 2020

Tait and Tait General Construction

Tait and Tait General Construction

Customers say: Quick response

40 local quotes requested

20 years of experience

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"I hired Tait and Tait General Construction to do multiple jobs in the last six months. He put new soffits and gutters. He also put new siding on my garage. He did an excellent job and I would recommend him to do remodeling or any sort of construction for your home!"

Logan W on July 2025

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Logan W on July 2025

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FAQs for contractor service projects in Lockport, IL

Generally, general contractors charge between $50 and $150 hourly, though not every contractor charges by the hour. If charging based on the project, you can expect a markup of 10% to 20% of the construction cost. You can expect to pay between $300 and $500 daily if charged by the day.

General contractors are the ones that coordinate home construction projects. They are in charge of the day-to-day oversight of the subcontractors to ensure that the project is completed on time and to resolve problems as they arise. General contractors:

Complete pre-construction planning, both with the customer and crew
Provide realistic cost estimates
Develop construction timelines
Ensure deadlines are met
Acquire permits as needed
Purchase supplies and materials

Before hiring a general contractor for your home project, it’s a great idea to write down a list of questions to discuss with each prospect. Some example questions to get you started include:

Which types of insurance do you carry?
Can you provide a list of references?
What is the expected timeline for this project?
How will my project be supervised?
Will you hire subcontractors for the job?
What is the best way to communicate changes?
Will you obtain all of the required building permits?

While city and state laws vary on general contractor licensing requirements, hiring an unlicensed general contractor could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations. Be sure to check our state licensing tool to review the local general contractor guidelines for your area.

As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include:

The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check
Required to have applicable state and local licenses
Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review
Paying to advertise their services
Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi

Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.

Yes, most general contractors require a down payment for project completion. A reasonable down payment for a contractor is 10% to 25% of the total project cost, though that will vary based on project size and location. The down payment helps cover the upfront costs of materials and permits and helps ensure payment for the project at hand.