Hiring a general contractor in San Jose is one of the biggest financial decisions a homeowner makes. Here’s everything you need to know to hire confidently.
What Does a General Contractor Do in San Jose?
A general contractor (GC) manages all aspects of your construction project: hiring and supervising subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, framers, tile setters), pulling permits, scheduling inspections, ordering materials, managing the project timeline, and ensuring work meets San Jose building codes. A design-build contractor like Quartz Construction also provides architectural design and engineering services.
General Contractor Costs in San Jose
- GC Markup: 15–25% overhead and profit on subcontractor and material costs
- On a $100,000 project: $15,000–$25,000 goes to GC management, coordination, and profit
- Kitchen remodel: $35,000–$100,000+ total with GC
- ADU construction: $150,000–$400,000 total with GC
- Full home renovation: $150,000–$600,000+ with GC
California Contractor License Laws
California law (Business & Professions Code Section 7028) requires a CSLB license for any project over $500 in labor or materials. Hiring an unlicensed contractor: (1) Exposes you to liability if a worker is injured, (2) Voids your homeowner’s insurance during the project, (3) Makes it harder to get permits, and (4) Gives you no legal recourse if work is poor. Always verify at cslb.ca.gov.
What to Include in Your Contractor Contract
- Detailed scope of work with material specifications
- Start and end dates with milestone schedule
- Payment schedule tied to milestones (never pay more than 10% or $1,000 upfront)
- Change order process and pricing
- Permit responsibilities (who pulls and pays)
- Warranty on labor (typically 1 year) and materials
- Dispute resolution process
- Proof of insurance (general liability + workers’ comp)
Quartz Construction has been serving San Jose homeowners for 15+ years with licensed, professional general contracting services. CSLB #1003436 | BBB A+ | 4.9⭐ (65+ Reviews). Call (650) 749-7436 for a free consultation.
Watch: San Jose Remodeling Projects by Quartz Construction
Watch: Bay Area Remodeling Insights
Expert tips and real project walkthroughs to help you plan your Bay Area home improvement.
What Our Bay Area Clients Say
4.9 ★ average rating across Google, Yelp, and Houzz from 150+ Bay Area homeowners.
"Quartz Construction did an amazing job on our kitchen remodel. The team was professional, on time, and the results exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend to any Bay Area homeowner!"
— Michael T. |
"We hired them for a bathroom remodel in our San Jose home. From permitting to final walkthrough, everything was handled perfectly. The tile work is stunning. 5 stars without hesitation."
— Sarah L. |
"Just finished our ADU garage conversion. The project came in on budget and on schedule — rare in the Bay Area! The rental income already started. Could not be happier with Quartz Construction."
— David R. |
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Licensed Bay Area contractor — CSLB #1003436 — serving San Jose, Fremont, Oakland, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and all Bay Area communities.
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Licensed General Contractor • CSLB Lic#1003436 • Serving San Jose, Santa Clara & Bay Area
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Quartz Construction & Remodeling | CSLB #1003436 | Licensed, Bonded & Insured
Phone: (650) 749-7436
Address: 1777 Hamilton Ave #1080, San Jose, CA 95125
Hours: Mon–Sat 7am–7pm | Free Estimates
Service Area: San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Mountain View, Los Gatos & Bay Area
