General Contracting Contractors in Memphis, Tennessee
Licensed Establishments
819
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
March through October, with highest demand April-June for major renovations
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
2-5 business days for initial quote, 1-2 weeks for detailed estimates
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Kitchen remodel (mid-range) | $25,000 – $55,000 |
| Bathroom remodel (full) | $15,000 – $35,000 |
| Room addition (200-400 sq ft) | $35,000 – $80,000 |
| Basement finishing | $20,000 – $45,000 |
| Deck construction (composite) | $8,000 – $18,000 |
| Roof replacement (asphalt shingle) | $12,000 – $25,000 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Tennessee requires Contractor License for projects over $25,000 or structural work. Must pass PSI exam, provide financial statements, carry $300,000 aggregate/$100,000 per occurrence liability insurance. Residential Building Contractor license requires 4 years experience or education equivalent. Renewal every 2 years with continuing education.
Permit Requirements
Memphis requires permits for structural changes, additions, electrical/plumbing work over $100, HVAC installation. Commercial projects require separate trade permits. Permit fees range $50-500+ based on project value. Electronic permitting through Memphis Light, Gas & Water.
Inspection Schedule
Foundation/footings, framing, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, insulation, final inspection. Commercial requires additional fire/life safety inspections. Schedule 48 hours in advance through city inspection department.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000 aggregate/$100,000 per occurrence for licensing. Workers compensation required for employees. Many projects require $1M+ coverage.
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Meet experience requirements
Document 4 years construction experience or complete approved education program. Compile work history, references, and project documentation.
- 2
Study for PSI exam
Purchase study materials and prepare for Tennessee contractor examination covering business law, construction law, project management, and trade knowledge.
- 3
Gather financial documentation
Prepare financial statements, bank references, and proof of $25,000 net worth. May require CPA-prepared statements for larger license classifications.
- 4
Obtain required insurance
Secure general liability insurance minimum $300,000 aggregate/$100,000 per occurrence. Get workers compensation if hiring employees.
- 5
Submit application and take exam
Complete Tennessee contractor license application, pay fees, and schedule PSI examination. Pass exam with 70% or higher score.
- 6
Receive license and maintain compliance
Upon approval, receive license certificate. Renew every 2 years with continuing education requirements and maintain insurance coverage.
About This Market
Memphis general contracting runs steady year-round with 819 licensed establishments statewide competing for work. Market splits between historic home renovations in Midtown, suburban remodels in East Memphis and Germantown, and new construction in outlying areas. Labor costs stay competitive compared to Nashville, but material delivery can add time and expense. Insurance claims from storm damage drive consistent roofing and siding work. The $25,000 licensing threshold keeps smaller handymen out of major jobs, but creates price pressure on mid-size projects.
Get your contractor license early — the PSI exam and financial requirements take 6-8 weeks minimum. Memphis permitting moves faster than Nashville if you know the system, but inspectors are thorough on code compliance, especially electrical and structural work. Build relationships with MLG&W for utility connections on additions. Peak season pricing can add 15-20% to materials, so lock in major jobs by February. Storm season brings opportunity but also insurance headaches — document everything and know your liability limits.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a contractor license for all projects in Memphis?▾
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Contractors in Memphis
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