How much do general contractors typically charge?

<div>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. </div>

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>

Do general contractors require a down payment for projects?

<div>Yes, most general contractors require a down payment for project completion. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-reasonable-down-payment-contractor.htm">A reasonable down payment for a contractor</a> 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. </div>

Top 10 Best Contractors in Dresden, ME

Customers say: Quick response

37 local quotes requested

29 years of experience

The Leviathan Group is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 35 years of hands on experience, to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

"We had our kitchen completely remodeled by Hutchins and Son. Owner Don is great to work with. He was able to provide us with the exact custom cabinets and custom color we were looking for. I highly recommend Don and his son ."

ANN F on December 2024

The Leviathan Group is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 35 years of hands on experience, to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

"We had our kitchen completely remodeled by Hutchins and Son. Owner Don is great to work with. He was able to provide us with the exact custom cabinets and custom color we were looking for. I highly recommend Don and his son ."

ANN F on December 2024

G.A. Doughty Construction

G.A. Doughty Construction

43 local quotes requested

22 years of experience

G.A. Doughty Construction, we are without a doubt the best at what we do, and it always shows in our work. We take pride in our professionalism; our employees are always timely and dressed professionally. With over 19 years of experience in our trades, you can be confident that you are hiring the best company to provide all of your construction needs. We look forward to earning your business! Call us today for a quote! References available per request.

"We had a great experience working with G.A. Doughty Construction. From the start, their team was communicative, responsive, and collaborative—making sure we were involved and informed at every step. They helped us navigate and recover from a difficult prior experience, stepping in with professionalism and integrity to get the work done right. Their commitment to quality and transparency gave us real peace of mind, and we’re grateful for their expertise and support throughout the project."

Jared A on June 2025

G.A. Doughty Construction, we are without a doubt the best at what we do, and it always shows in our work. We take pride in our professionalism; our employees are always timely and dressed professionally. With over 19 years of experience in our trades, you can be confident that you are hiring the best company to provide all of your construction needs. We look forward to earning your business! Call us today for a quote! References available per request.

"We had a great experience working with G.A. Doughty Construction. From the start, their team was communicative, responsive, and collaborative—making sure we were involved and informed at every step. They helped us navigate and recover from a difficult prior experience, stepping in with professionalism and integrity to get the work done right. Their commitment to quality and transparency gave us real peace of mind, and we’re grateful for their expertise and support throughout the project."

Jared A on June 2025

Midcoast Home Improvement

934 River Road

No reviews

Midcoast Home Improvement

934 River Road

No reviews

Free onsite estimate

My team has years of experience and great at talking out what you might be interested in. we specialize in hardscape, masonry, stonework, carpentry, home repair, and appliance repair. We have free estimates and are fully insured. All work is guaranteed and with contract.

Foundation to Frame is a partnership with over 60 years of combined knowledge of concrete, specializing in residential foundations and slabs. We occasionally will do foundation to complete finish of small additions and secondary dwelling units. All quotes are straight forward and fair.

We can help you with any of your carpentry needs. Framing, flooring, bathroom installation, insulation, decking, sheetrocking and more! 15+ years experience. Fully insured.

The Guy That Fixes Everything

No reviews

The Guy That Fixes Everything

No reviews

22 years of experience

From fixing leaky faucets to tackling big renovation projects, Jimmy does it all. He's your go-to guy for all types of residential jobs, and even takes on some light commercial work. With reasonable prices and a positive attitude, you'll be glad you called the guy that fixes everything. He can't get your brother-in-law to move out, but he can fix nearly everything else.

Emergency services offered

We are a family owned construction business located out of China, ME. We do excavation and general contracting, including land clearing, demolition, culvert installation, ditching, interior remodels, floors, painting, windows/doors, decks, walkways, anything you need to make your property dreams come true. We are a husband and wife duo, and work hard everyday to get jobs done in an efficient and timely manner, while paining close attention to every detail. Please consider us for your home or business needs!

I do handyman services. 24/7 emergency drain clog removal Carpentry, small plumbing jobs, electrical You name it and I can more than likely do it!

Bethel Stone LLC Painting

Bethel Stone LLC Painting

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Transform your home with the expertise of Bethel Stone LLC Painting. Our skilled team specializes in interior and exterior painting, bringing a fresh and vibrant look to your space. With a commitment to quality and attention to detail, we set ourselves apart from the competition. Contact us today to discuss your painting project and let us bring your vision to life!

"bethel stone was awesome to work with. In three days the whole house was primed, painted and all the rotten wood replaced. They arrived when promised and delivered a beautiful finished product."

Irene B on May 2024

Transform your home with the expertise of Bethel Stone LLC Painting. Our skilled team specializes in interior and exterior painting, bringing a fresh and vibrant look to your space. With a commitment to quality and attention to detail, we set ourselves apart from the competition. Contact us today to discuss your painting project and let us bring your vision to life!

"bethel stone was awesome to work with. In three days the whole house was primed, painted and all the rotten wood replaced. They arrived when promised and delivered a beautiful finished product."

Irene B on May 2024