General Contracting contractors in
Albuquerque, New Mexico.
A public directory of licensed general contracting contractors serving greater Albuquerque. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
New Mexico requires GB-98 General Contracting license for projects over $7,200. Must pass business law and trade examinations, provide financial statements, maintain $50,000 net worth minimum. License renewed annually with 6 hours continuing education. Residential-only contractors need RR-98 license for projects under $500,000.
Permit Requirements
City of Albuquerque requires building permits for structural work, additions, and renovations. Permit fees range $150-$2,500 based on project value. Trade permits needed for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. Plan review required for projects over $25,000.
Inspection Schedule
Foundation inspection before concrete pour, framing inspection before covering, insulation/drywall inspection, mechanical rough-in inspections, and final inspection. Minimum 24-48 hour notice required for scheduling.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000 per occurrence, workers compensation required for employees, commercial auto coverage for business vehicles. Many clients require $1 million liability coverage.
How to Get Licensed
Meet Financial Requirements
Establish minimum $50,000 net worth and gather financial statements, bank statements, and credit reports. Submit CRS-1 financial statement form.
Submit Application
Complete CID-4 application with Construction Industries Division, provide work history, three character references, and pay $300 application fee.
Schedule Examinations
Register for business law exam and general contracting trade exam through PSI Services. Study materials available from Construction Industries Division.
Pass Required Exams
Pass both business law and trade examinations with 70% minimum score. Exams cover NM construction law, safety regulations, and trade knowledge.
Submit Insurance Proof
Provide certificates of insurance showing general liability and workers compensation coverage meeting state minimums.
Complete License Issuance
Pay $200 license fee and $35 transaction fee upon approval. License valid for one year, renewable annually with continuing education requirements.
About This Market
Albuquerque's general contracting market serves a metro population of 560,000 with steady residential growth in the foothills and west side. Competition is moderate among the state's 365 licensed establishments, with demand driven by home additions, kitchen/bath remodels, and new custom builds. Adobe and southwestern architecture influence material costs, and the high desert climate creates year-round building opportunities. Labor costs stay reasonable compared to Denver or Phoenix markets. Getting licensed in New Mexico means navigating the Construction Industries Division bureaucracy and meeting net worth requirements that weed out weekend warriors. The GB-98 license opens doors to commercial work, but most money is in residential. Plan for the permit process in Bernalillo County and City of Albuquerque - inspectors know their codes and don't mess around. Build relationships with reliable subs early since good electrical and plumbing contractors book up fast. Winter work is possible but plan around occasional snow delays in higher elevations.
- Licensed establishments countUS Census Bureau Economic Census
- Licensing requirementsNew Mexico Construction Industries Division
- Permit fees and processesCity of Albuquerque Planning Department
- Insurance requirementsNew Mexico Construction Industries Division regulations
- Cost estimatesLocal market analysis and contractor estimates
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between GB-98 and RR-98 contractor licenses in New Mexico?
GB-98 is the unlimited general contracting license for any project size including commercial work. RR-98 is residential-only, limited to projects under $500,000. Both require exams and financial qualifications through the Construction Industries Division.
How long does it take to get a contractor license in New Mexico?
Plan 6-12 weeks minimum. Includes application processing, background check, exam scheduling, and final license issuance. The Construction Industries Division processes applications monthly, so timing matters.
What's the average cost for a kitchen remodel in Albuquerque?
Full kitchen remodels run $18,000-$45,000 depending on size and finishes. Mid-range remodels average $28,000. Costs include cabinets, countertops, appliances, flooring, and labor. High-end projects with custom features can exceed $60,000.
Do I need separate permits for electrical and plumbing work in Albuquerque?
Yes, the City of Albuquerque requires separate trade permits for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work in addition to the general building permit. Each trade must be performed by properly licensed contractors.
What insurance coverage do general contractors need in New Mexico?
Minimum $300,000 general liability required by law, plus workers compensation for employees. Most residential clients require $1 million liability. Commercial projects often require $2 million coverage and additional umbrella policies.
General Contracting contractors in Albuquerque
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