General Contracting contractors in
Greenville, South Carolina.
A public directory of licensed general contracting contractors serving greater Greenville. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
SC requires General Contractor License for projects over $5,000. Class A (unlimited), Class B (up to $300,000), Class C (up to $50,000). Must pass PSI examination, provide financial statements, carry required insurance. 2-year renewal cycle with 8 hours continuing education.
Permit Requirements
City of Greenville requires permits for structural work, additions, major renovations. Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work requires separate trade permits. Submit plans to Building Safety Department, fees range $50-$500+ based on project scope.
Inspection Schedule
Foundation inspection before concrete pour, framing inspection before covering, electrical/plumbing rough-in before closing walls, insulation inspection, final inspection before occupancy. Schedule 24-48 hours in advance.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers' compensation if employees, surety bond $10,000-$20,000 depending on license class. Many clients require $1M+ liability coverage.
How to Get Licensed
Meet Basic Requirements
Must be 18+ years old, have high school diploma or equivalent, and 4+ years construction experience or relevant education. Submit proof of experience through employer verification or project documentation.
Submit Application and Financial Documents
Complete application through SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. Provide audited financial statements, bank references, and credit report. Include $290 application fee and required documentation.
Pass PSI Examination
Schedule and pass the General Contractor examination through PSI. Study business law, construction practices, safety regulations, and SC-specific codes. Exam fee approximately $75.
Obtain Required Insurance and Bond
Secure general liability insurance minimum $300,000 and surety bond ($10,000 Class C, $20,000 Class B/A). Submit proof of coverage with license application.
Receive License and Maintain Compliance
License valid 2 years upon approval. Complete 8 hours continuing education before renewal. Maintain insurance coverage and update license for address or business structure changes.
About This Market
Greenville's general contracting market runs hot with steady residential growth and downtown revitalization driving demand. You've got 886 licensed outfits statewide competing for work, with costs pushed up by material shortages and skilled labor gaps. Kitchen remodels and additions dominate the residential side, while commercial renovation feeds off the city's economic expansion. Permit fees stay reasonable, but inspection schedules can bottleneck projects during peak season.
To work this market, start with your contractor's license - don't touch anything over $5K without it. The PSI exam isn't a joke, and the state checks your financials before approval. Build relationships with Greenville's Building Safety Department early because inspection delays kill schedules. Spring booking starts in January, so line up your crews and material suppliers before the rush. Keep your insurance current and bond ready - clients check, and one lapse tanks your reputation.
- Licensed establishments countUS Census Bureau
- Cost rangesLocal market estimates based on contractor surveys
- Licensing requirementsSC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
- Permit requirementsCity of Greenville Building Safety Department
- Insurance minimumsSC contractor licensing regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
What license do I need for general contracting in Greenville, SC?
SC requires a General Contractor License for projects exceeding $5,000. Choose Class A (unlimited), Class B (up to $300,000), or Class C (up to $50,000) based on your project scope. Source: SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Greenville?
Kitchen remodels typically range $25,000-$75,000 depending on size, materials, and finishes. Mid-range projects average $45,000-$55,000. Costs vary based on cabinet quality, appliance selection, and structural changes required.
What permits are required for home additions in Greenville?
Building permits required for all additions through City of Greenville Building Safety Department. Separate permits needed for electrical, plumbing, HVAC work. Submit plans and expect $200-$800+ in permit fees based on square footage and complexity.
How long does contractor licensing take in South Carolina?
Allow 4-6 weeks for license processing after submitting complete application. Includes PSI exam scheduling, financial review, and background check. Incomplete applications cause delays. Source: SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
What insurance is required for general contractors in SC?
Minimum $300,000 general liability insurance and surety bond $10,000-$20,000 based on license class. Workers' compensation required if you have employees. Most clients demand $1M+ liability coverage for larger projects.
General Contracting contractors in Greenville
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