General Contracting Contractors in Tempe, Arizona
Licensed Establishments
905
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
October through April - prime building season when temperatures are manageable
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
2-5 business days for initial quotes, longer during peak season
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Kitchen remodel | $15,000 – $45,000 |
| Bathroom remodel | $8,000 – $25,000 |
| Home addition | $25,000 – $80,000 |
| Roof replacement | $8,000 – $18,000 |
| Whole house renovation | $50,000 – $150,000 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) license required. Must pass business management exam and trade knowledge exam. Class A license for unlimited value projects, Class B for projects under $1M. 4 years experience required. Renewal every 2 years with continuing education.
Permit Requirements
Building permits required through City of Tempe Development Services for structural work, additions, major renovations. Electrical and plumbing permits needed for related trades. Plan review required for most projects.
Inspection Schedule
Foundation inspection before pour, framing inspection before covering, rough mechanical/electrical/plumbing inspections, insulation inspection, final inspection. Schedule 24-48 hours in advance through City of Tempe.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $100,000 per occurrence, $300,000 aggregate. Workers compensation required if employees. Bonding requirements vary by license classification - $5,000 to $100,000.
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Meet experience requirements
Document 4 years of construction experience in the trade classification you're applying for. Employment records, tax returns, or sworn affidavits from previous employers required.
- 2
Complete pre-license education
Take 16-hour business management course from ROC-approved provider covering Arizona construction law, lien rights, and business practices.
- 3
Pass required examinations
Pass both business management exam and trade-specific knowledge exam administered by PSI Services. Schedule online at psiexams.com.
- 4
Submit license application
File application with Arizona ROC including experience verification, exam certificates, financial statements, and applicable fees ranging from $330-$630.
- 5
Obtain required bonds and insurance
Secure surety bond ($5,000-$100,000 based on classification) and general liability insurance before license activation. Provide certificates to ROC.
- 6
Complete background check
Submit to fingerprint-based background check through Arizona Department of Public Safety. Any felony convictions require additional review.
About This Market
Tempe's general contracting market runs hot with steady residential remodeling demand and new construction in established neighborhoods. Competition is fierce with approximately 905 licensed establishments statewide, but quality contractors stay booked solid. Desert climate drives costs up for materials and scheduling - concrete work happens early morning, roofing is seasonal, and monsoon delays are built into every timeline. Kitchen and bathroom remodels dominate the residential side, while commercial work centers around ASU area developments.
Get your ROC license sorted first - the state doesn't mess around with unlicensed work. Tempe's building department moves efficiently but expects professional submittals. Plan around the heat - May through September means early starts and premium labor costs. Build relationships with reliable subs because good crews are gold in this market. Insurance requirements are non-negotiable, and the city will pull permits on unpermitted work. Smart contractors schedule heavy work during cooler months and use summer for planning and interior projects.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a general contractor license in Arizona?▾
What's the difference between Class A and Class B contractor licenses in Arizona?▾
Do I need separate permits for electrical and plumbing work in Tempe?▾
What insurance is required for general contractors in Arizona?▾
When is the best time to schedule major construction projects in Tempe?▾
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