General Contracting contractors in
St Louis, Missouri.
A public directory of licensed general contracting contractors serving greater St Louis. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Missouri requires Residential Contractor License for projects over $3,000. Must pass written exam, provide proof of insurance, submit $20,000 surety bond. Commercial projects require additional Commercial General Contractor License. Renewal every 2 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
St Louis requires building permits for structural work, electrical, plumbing, HVAC modifications. Permit fees range $50-$500 depending on project scope. All permits require approved contractor license verification.
Inspection Schedule
Foundation inspection before concrete pour, framing inspection before drywall, mechanical/electrical rough-in inspection, final inspection before certificate of occupancy
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate. Workers compensation required if employees. Professional liability recommended for design-build projects.
How to Get Licensed
Meet Prerequisites
Verify you meet minimum requirements: 18+ years old, high school diploma or equivalent, and either 2 years construction experience or completion of approved construction program.
Complete Application
Submit contractor license application to Missouri Division of Professional Registration with required documentation, experience verification, and $75 application fee.
Pass Written Exam
Schedule and pass the Missouri contractor examination covering building codes, business law, and construction practices. Exam fee is $50.
Obtain Surety Bond
Purchase $20,000 surety bond from approved bonding company. Bond cost typically ranges $200-$600 annually depending on credit score.
Submit Insurance Proof
Provide certificate of insurance showing general liability coverage minimum $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate.
Pay License Fee
Submit final license fee of $100 and receive contractor license valid for 2 years. Begin work only after license is active.
About This Market
St Louis general contracting market is steady with strong residential renovation demand driven by the city's older housing stock and growing suburbs. Competition is moderate with approximately 827 licensed establishments statewide, but quality contractors stay busy year-round. Historic home renovations, kitchen/bath remodels, and additions dominate the work mix. Material costs and labor shortages are the main cost drivers, especially for skilled trades. Getting licensed in Missouri is straightforward but the $20,000 bond requirement weeds out casual operators. St Louis building department moves efficiently but they're sticklers for code compliance, especially on historic properties. Peak season runs April through September when weather cooperates and homeowners want outdoor work done. Smart contractors line up winter interior work to smooth out seasonal fluctuations. Insurance requirements aren't excessive but workers comp audits are thorough - keep your classifications clean.
- Licensed establishmentsUS Census Bureau - 827 establishments in Missouri
- Cost rangesLocal market estimates based on St Louis contractor surveys
- Licensing requirementsMissouri Division of Professional Registration
- Permit requirementsSt Louis Building Division
- Insurance minimumsMissouri Department of Commerce and Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
What license do I need for general contracting in St Louis, MO?
Missouri requires a Residential Contractor License for projects over $3,000, obtained through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. You must pass a written exam and post a $20,000 surety bond.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in St Louis?
Kitchen remodels in St Louis typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 depending on size, materials, and finishes. High-end projects in areas like Clayton or Ladue can exceed $100,000.
When is the best time to schedule construction work in St Louis?
April through September is peak construction season due to favorable weather. Interior projects can be scheduled year-round, often with better pricing and availability during winter months.
What permits are required for home additions in St Louis?
Home additions require building permits from St Louis Building Division, plus separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits as needed. Permit fees typically range from $200-$500 for residential additions.
How long does it take to get construction permits in St Louis?
Standard residential permits take 2-3 weeks for approval in St Louis. Complex projects or those in historic districts may take 4-6 weeks due to additional review requirements.
General Contracting contractors in St Louis
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