General Contracting Contractors in Houston, Texas
Licensed Establishments
4,333
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
March through October - spring starts heavy with hurricane prep and renovation projects, summer construction peaks, fall finishes before winter
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
48-72 hours for initial response, 7-14 days for detailed estimates
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Home Addition (500-1000 sq ft) | $75,000 – $200,000 |
| Kitchen Remodel (mid-range) | $35,000 – $85,000 |
| Bathroom Remodel (full) | $15,000 – $45,000 |
| Whole House Renovation | $150,000 – $500,000 |
| New Construction (custom home) | $250,000 – $750,000 |
| Commercial Build-out (per sq ft) | $50 – $150 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Texas requires Residential Construction License for projects over $20,000. Must pass PSI exam covering business law, construction standards, and safety. Commercial work over $500,000 requires additional endorsements. License renewal every 2 years with 8 hours continuing education. No state-level general contractor license for smaller residential work.
Permit Requirements
Houston requires permits for structural changes, electrical, plumbing, HVAC work. Residential permits $50-500 depending on scope. Commercial permits calculated on project valuation. Electronic permit system through Houston Permitting Center. Plan review required for projects over $25,000.
Inspection Schedule
Foundation inspection before concrete pour, framing inspection before drywall, mechanical/electrical rough-in before walls closed, final inspection before occupancy. Houston inspectors typically schedule 24-48 hours out.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000 per occurrence for residential work, $1M for commercial. Workers comp required if employees. Contractor must provide certificate of insurance for permit applications in Houston.
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Determine License Requirements
Identify if your work requires Residential Construction License (projects over $20,000) or specialty trade licenses through Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
- 2
Meet Experience Requirements
Document 4 years construction experience or equivalent education/training. Submit verification forms from previous employers or clients to TDLR
- 3
Complete Pre-License Education
Take approved 16-hour construction law course covering Texas regulations, business practices, and safety requirements from TDLR-approved provider
- 4
Submit Application and Fees
File online application with TDLR including background check authorization, experience documentation, and $287 application fee
- 5
Pass PSI Examination
Schedule and pass state exam covering construction standards, business law, safety regulations, and Texas-specific requirements. Exam fee $68
- 6
Obtain Insurance and Bond
Secure general liability insurance and any required bonding before license activation. Submit proof of coverage to TDLR
- 7
Maintain License
Renew every 2 years with 8 hours continuing education and $140 renewal fee. Keep insurance and bond current throughout license period
About This Market
Houston's general contracting market is red-hot with steady population growth, hurricane recovery work, and energy sector money driving demand. Competition is fierce among the 4,333 licensed establishments statewide, but skilled contractors stay booked solid. Residential remodels and additions dominate the market, with commercial build-outs in energy corridors commanding premium rates. Costs run 10-15% above national average due to material transport costs, skilled labor shortage, and Houston's building complexity requirements for flood zones and hurricane standards. Weather delays and foundation issues from clay soil drive up project timelines and costs. Getting established here means navigating Texas's licensing maze and Houston's permit bureaucracy, but the payoff is worth it. Residential Construction License is mandatory for bigger jobs, and Houston's electronic permit system moves faster than most cities if you know the process. Hurricane season June through November can shut down exterior work for days, so smart contractors front-load outdoor work in spring. The key is building relationships with Houston inspectors and understanding flood zone requirements - FEMA compliance isn't optional here. Keep your insurance current and your bond ready, because commercial clients in the energy sector will check both before signing contracts.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license for general contracting work in Houston?▾
What's the typical cost for a kitchen remodel in Houston?▾
How long do Houston building permits take to approve?▾
What insurance do general contractors need in Houston?▾
When is peak construction season in Houston?▾
Contractors in Houston
0 general contracting contractors in Houston.
No contractors listed yet.
Are you a general contracting contractor in Houston?
Get listed on The Board free. Manage your leads, jobs, and follow-ups with The Forge.
Get Listed Free