General Contracting Contractors in Dearborn, Michigan

Licensed Establishments

1,364

U.S. Census Bureau

Peak Season

April through October

Estimate

Avg. Response Time

3-7 business days

Estimate

Common Job Costs

Service	Cost Range
Kitchen remodel (mid-range)	$25,000 – $55,000
Bathroom remodel (full)	$15,000 – $35,000
Home addition (per sq ft)	$180 – $280
Roof replacement (asphalt shingles)	$8,000 – $16,000
Basement finishing	$20,000 – $40,000
Whole house renovation	$100,000 – $300,000

Licensing Requirements

Michigan requires Residential Builder License for projects over $600. Must pass PSI exam covering building codes, safety, business law. 60 hours continuing education every 3 years. Maintenance and Alteration Contractor License for smaller projects under $600. Both require $25,000 surety bond.

Permit Requirements

City of Dearborn requires building permits for structural work, additions, major renovations. Electrical and plumbing permits required for respective trades. Permit fees range $50-500 based on project scope. Submit plans for review before starting work.

Inspection Schedule

Foundation inspection before concrete pour, framing inspection before drywall, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, insulation inspection, final inspection before occupancy. Schedule 48 hours in advance with Dearborn Building Department.

Insurance Minimums

General liability $1 million per occurrence, workers compensation if employees, commercial auto if using vehicles. Many clients require $2 million coverage. Errors and omissions recommended for design-build projects.

How to Get Licensed

1
Complete pre-licensing education
Complete required pre-licensing education hours through approved provider. Michigan requires specific coursework covering building codes, safety regulations, and business practices before taking the exam.
2
Submit license application
Submit completed application to Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs with required documentation, background check, and application fees. Include proof of insurance and bonding.
3
Pass PSI contractor exam
Schedule and pass the PSI contractor examination covering Michigan building codes, safety regulations, business law, and trade practices. Exam covers both general business knowledge and technical construction knowledge.
4
Obtain surety bond
Secure required $25,000 surety bond through licensed bonding company. Bond protects consumers and must remain active throughout license period.
5
Maintain license compliance
Complete 60 hours continuing education every 3 years, maintain insurance coverage, and renew license by expiration date. Keep current with code changes and safety regulations.

About This Market

Dearborn's general contracting market runs hot with steady demand from the city's aging housing stock and industrial workforce with disposable income. You've got competition from Detroit metro contractors, but local relationships matter here. Kitchen and bath remodels dominate, followed by basement finishing and roofing. Material costs hit hard in 2022-2024, pushing mid-range kitchen remodels past $40K. Proximity to Detroit means higher labor costs but clients who can pay. The second paragraph: Get your Michigan Residential Builder License sorted first - that PSI exam trips up half the applicants on code questions. Dearborn's building department moves slow, so factor permit delays into your timeline. Peak season runs April to October when homeowners can handle construction disruption. Build relationships with local suppliers - delivery delays kill margins. Stay current on energy efficiency rebates through DTE Energy; clients ask about them. Work clean, respect the neighbors, and remember half your clients work for Ford - they know quality when they see it.

Data Sources:

Licensed establishments count: U.S. Census BureauLicensing requirements: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory AffairsCost estimates: Local market analysis (estimates)Permit requirements: City of Dearborn Building DepartmentInsurance requirements: Michigan contractor licensing regulations

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need to work as a general contractor in Dearborn, MI?▾

Michigan requires a Residential Builder License for projects over $600, which involves passing the PSI exam and maintaining a $25,000 surety bond. Projects under $600 require a Maintenance and Alteration Contractor License, per Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

How much does a typical kitchen remodel cost in Dearborn?▾

Mid-range kitchen remodels in Dearborn typically run $25,000-$55,000, with costs driven by material selection, layout changes, and local labor rates. High-end projects can exceed $75,000 depending on appliances and custom work.

How long does it take to get building permits in Dearborn?▾

Dearborn Building Department typically processes standard residential permits in 2-4 weeks. Complex projects requiring plan review can take 4-6 weeks. Submit complete plans and documentation to avoid delays, according to city building department guidelines.

When is the best time to schedule construction projects in Dearborn?▾

Peak construction season runs April through October when weather permits outdoor work and material delivery. Schedule major projects for spring start to avoid weather delays and higher winter labor costs.

What insurance coverage do general contractors need in Michigan?▾

Michigan contractors must carry general liability insurance, typically $1-2 million per occurrence, plus workers compensation if employing others. Many clients and municipalities require proof of coverage before project start, per state contractor licensing requirements.

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