General Contracting Contractors in Des Moines, Iowa
Licensed Establishments
700
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
April through September - construction season driven by weather and homeowner tax refunds
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
3-5 business days for initial contact, 1-2 weeks for detailed estimates
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Kitchen remodel | $15,000 – $45,000 |
| Bathroom remodel | $8,000 – $25,000 |
| Room addition | $25,000 – $80,000 |
| Basement finishing | $12,000 – $35,000 |
| Deck construction | $4,000 – $15,000 |
| Whole house renovation | $50,000 – $200,000 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Iowa requires Class A Contractor license for projects over $2000. Must pass business and law exam, provide financial statement, maintain $10,000 surety bond. Biennial renewal required. Specialty trades may need additional endorsements.
Permit Requirements
Building permits required through Des Moines Building Services Department for structural work, additions, and major renovations. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits required for respective work. Online permitting system available.
Inspection Schedule
Foundation inspection before concrete pour, framing inspection before closing walls, rough-in inspections for electrical/plumbing/mechanical, insulation inspection, final inspection before occupancy
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate. Workers compensation required if employees. Many clients require $1 million coverage.
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Meet eligibility requirements
Must be 18+ years old, have high school diploma or equivalent, and demonstrate 4 years construction experience or equivalent education
- 2
Complete application
Submit Iowa Construction Contractor application with required documentation including financial statement and proof of experience
- 3
Pass examinations
Take and pass both business and law examination and trade-specific examination administered by PSI Services
- 4
Obtain surety bond
Secure $10,000 contractor surety bond from approved bonding company
- 5
Pay fees and receive license
Submit bond, pay licensing fees, and receive Class A Contractor license valid for 2 years
- 6
Maintain license
Renew license every 2 years, maintain insurance and bonding requirements, complete any required continuing education
About This Market
Des Moines general contracting market runs steady with approximately 700 licensed establishments statewide competing for work. Residential remodeling dominates - kitchen and bath updates, basement finishing, room additions. New construction slowed but renovation demand stays strong driven by older housing stock and homeowner equity. Material costs and labor shortages push pricing up 15-20% over pre-2020 levels. Weather dictates scheduling with 6-month productive season. Des Moines contractors need Class A license for anything over $2000 - that means business exam, financial disclosure, and $10,000 bond. City permit process is straightforward but inspections are mandatory and scheduled tight. Peak season books fast so line up crews early. Insurance minimums are reasonable but clients want to see $1 million coverage. Material supply chains still choppy so build buffer time and lock pricing when possible. Local market favors established contractors with good references over low bidders.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
What license do I need for general contracting in Iowa?▾
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Des Moines?▾
Do I need permits for home additions in Des Moines?▾
When is peak season for contractors in Des Moines?▾
What insurance is required for general contractors in Iowa?▾
Contractors in Des Moines
0 general contracting contractors in Des Moines.
No contractors listed yet.
Are you a general contracting contractor in Des Moines?
Get listed on The Board free. Manage your leads, jobs, and follow-ups with The Forge.
Get Listed Free