General Contracting contractors in
Hampton, Virginia.
A public directory of licensed general contracting contractors serving greater Hampton. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Virginia Class A Contractor License required for projects over $120,000, Class B for projects $7,500-$120,000, Class C for specialty work under $10,000. Must pass PSI examination, provide financial statements, carry required insurance, and complete 16 hours continuing education every 2 years. License renewed biennially.
Permit Requirements
Building permits required through Hampton Building Department for structural work, additions, electrical/plumbing modifications. Permit fees range $100-$2,000+ based on project scope. Trade permits may be pulled by licensed subcontractors.
Inspection Schedule
Footing/foundation, framing, mechanical rough-in, insulation, and final inspections required. Schedule inspections 24 hours in advance through Hampton Building Department. Re-inspection fees apply for failed inspections.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000 per occurrence for Class A license, $50,000 for Class B/C. Workers compensation required if employing others. Surety bond requirements: Class A $50,000, Class B $10,000, Class C $2,500.
How to Get Licensed
Meet Prerequisites
Verify 3+ years construction experience or relevant education. Gather financial statements showing minimum net worth: $45,000 for Class A, $3,000 for Class B, $1,000 for Class C.
Complete Pre-Licensing Education
Take 8-hour pre-licensing course from approved provider. Course covers Virginia construction law, safety regulations, and business practices.
Pass PSI Examination
Schedule and pass contractor examination through PSI. Business law and trade knowledge sections required. 70% passing score needed.
Obtain Required Insurance
Purchase general liability insurance meeting state minimums and workers compensation if applicable. Obtain surety bond: $50,000 Class A, $10,000 Class B, $2,500 Class C.
Submit Application
Complete DPOR application with exam results, financial statements, insurance certificates, and fees. Class A $330, Class B $165, Class C $90.
Maintain License
Complete 16 hours continuing education every 2 years. Renew license biennially and maintain insurance coverage throughout license period.
About This Market
Hampton's general contracting market runs steady thanks to military housing turnover, aging housing stock from the 1950s-70s, and coastal property maintenance needs. Competition's moderate with about 85-90 active contractors serving the area. Kitchen and bathroom remodels dominate residential work, while storm damage repairs spike after hurricane season. Material costs and permit delays are your biggest cost drivers here. Getting licensed in Virginia isn't a joke - the PSI exam has a 65% pass rate and the financial requirements weed out the weekend warriors. Hampton's building department moves efficiently but follows code to the letter. Storm season keeps you busy with insurance work, but the military PCS cycles in summer create competition for interior jobs. Know your hurricane building codes and keep your insurance current - coastal work demands it.
- Median hourly wage $58.88/hr ($122,470/yr)Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics
- Approximately 1316 licensed establishments in VAU.S. Census Bureau County Business Patterns
- License requirements and feesVirginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
- Permit requirements and inspection schedulesHampton Building Department
- Insurance minimums and bond requirementsVirginia Contractor Licensing Laws Section 54.1-1100
Frequently Asked Questions
What license do I need for general contracting work in Hampton, VA?
You need a Virginia contractor license through DPOR: Class A for jobs over $120,000, Class B for $7,500-$120,000, or Class C for specialty work under $10,000. Each requires passing a PSI exam and meeting financial requirements.
How much do general contractors make in Hampton, VA?
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, median hourly wage is $58.88/hour or $122,470 annually. Actual earnings vary based on project volume, overhead costs, and specialization areas.
What permits do I need from Hampton for construction projects?
Building permits required through Hampton Building Department for structural work, additions, and major renovations. Permit fees range $100-$2,000+ depending on project scope. Electrical and plumbing permits may be required separately.
How long does it take to get a contractor license in Virginia?
Typically 4-8 weeks after submitting complete application with exam results, financial statements, and insurance documentation. DPOR processes applications in order received, with additional time needed if documentation is incomplete.
What insurance do I need as a general contractor in Hampton?
Minimum general liability: $300,000 per occurrence for Class A, $50,000 for Class B/C licenses. Workers compensation required if you have employees. Consider higher limits for coastal work due to storm exposure risks.
General Contracting contractors in Hampton
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