General Contracting Contractors in Savannah, Georgia
Licensed Establishments
1,777
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
March through November, with highest demand April-June and September-October
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
2-5 business days for initial quotes, longer during peak hurricane season
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Kitchen remodel | $25,000 – $85,000 |
| Bathroom renovation | $15,000 – $45,000 |
| Room addition | $35,000 – $120,000 |
| Roof replacement | $12,000 – $28,000 |
| Deck construction | $8,000 – $25,000 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Georgia requires Residential Basic Contractor License for projects under $25,000 or Residential Light Commercial Contractor License for larger projects. Must pass state examination, provide financial statements, carry required insurance, and renew every 2 years with 6 hours continuing education
Permit Requirements
Building permits required through City of Savannah Building Inspections Department for most structural work, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Historic District projects require additional approvals from Historic Preservation Commission
Inspection Schedule
Foundation, framing, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, mechanical rough-in, insulation, and final inspections typically required. Must schedule 24 hours in advance with city
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers compensation as required by Georgia law if employees present, surety bond requirements vary by license class
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Determine license class
Choose between Residential Basic (under $25,000 projects) or Residential Light Commercial based on intended project scope
- 2
Meet prerequisites
Obtain 2 years documented construction experience or complete approved education program
- 3
Gather documentation
Collect financial statements, credit report, work experience verification, and character references
- 4
Obtain insurance
Secure required general liability insurance and surety bond before application
- 5
Submit application
Complete application through Georgia Secretary of State with required fees and documentation
- 6
Pass examination
Schedule and pass the state contractor examination covering business law, construction methods, and safety
- 7
Maintain license
Renew every 2 years with 6 hours continuing education and updated insurance certificates
About This Market
Savannah's general contracting market runs hot with steady demand from historic home renovations, coastal property maintenance, and new construction in expanding suburbs. Competition is fierce among the established players, but there's room for quality contractors who understand the unique challenges of working in a historic coastal city where hurricane damage, moisture issues, and strict preservation rules drive up costs. Material costs run 10-15% higher than state average due to coastal location and specialty requirements for historic properties.
To work this market, get your licensing squared away first - Georgia doesn't mess around with unlicensed contractors. Learn the Historic District rules inside and out if you want the premium renovation work downtown. Hurricane season creates a feast-or-famine cycle, so build relationships with insurance restoration companies and maintain cash reserves for the slow periods. The coastal environment eats materials and equipment faster than inland work, so factor that into your pricing and maintenance schedules.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
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