General Contracting Contractors in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Licensed Establishments
1,316
U.S. Census Bureau
Peak Season
April through September - construction season driven by weather and hurricane preparation deadlines
Estimate
Avg. Response Time
3-5 business days for quotes, longer during peak season
Estimate
Common Job Costs
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Kitchen remodel (full) | $25,000 – $75,000 |
| Bathroom remodel (full) | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Home addition (per sq ft) | $150 – $300 |
| Deck construction (per sq ft) | $25 – $65 |
| Roof replacement (per sq ft) | $8 – $18 |
| Basement finishing (per sq ft) | $35 – $85 |
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Virginia Class A Contractor License required for projects over $120,000, Class B for projects $10,000-$120,000, Class C for specialty work under $10,000. Must pass PSI exam, show financial responsibility, provide references. 16 hours continuing education required every 2 years for renewal.
Permit Requirements
Building permits required through Virginia Beach Building Department for structural work, additions, major renovations. Electrical and plumbing permits required for respective work. Permit fees range $50-$500+ based on project scope.
Inspection Schedule
Inspections required at foundation, framing, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, insulation, and final stages. 24-48 hour notice required for scheduling inspections through Virginia Beach Building Department.
Insurance Minimums
General liability minimum $300,000, workers' compensation required if employees, surety bond requirements vary by license class - Class A requires $50,000 bond, Class B requires $10,000 bond
How to Get Licensed
- 1
Meet experience requirements
Document 3+ years construction experience or complete approved education program. Compile work history and references from previous employers or clients.
- 2
Choose license classification
Determine Class A (over $120,000 projects), Class B ($10,000-$120,000), or Class C (specialty under $10,000) based on intended project scope.
- 3
Complete application
Submit application through Virginia DPOR with required documentation, experience verification, and character references. Include financial statements showing liquidity requirements.
- 4
Pass PSI examination
Schedule and pass trade knowledge and Virginia law examination through PSI Services. Study guides available through Virginia Board for Contractors.
- 5
Obtain surety bond
Secure required surety bond - $50,000 for Class A, $10,000 for Class B, $5,000 for Class C. Bond must be maintained throughout license period.
- 6
Pay fees and receive license
Pay licensing fees (approximately $265-$365 depending on classification) and receive license certificate. License valid for 2 years with continuing education requirements.
About This Market
Virginia Beach general contracting market stays busy year-round with steady residential renovation demand and new construction. You've got Navy families rotating through, retirees upgrading homes, and coastal property maintenance driving consistent work. Competition is moderate with about 1,316 licensed establishments statewide, but quality contractors stay booked. Coastal environment means premium pricing for hurricane-resistant construction and materials that handle salt air. Hurricane season creates surge demand for emergency repairs and pre-storm prep work.
To work this market, get your Virginia contractor license sorted first - Class B covers most residential jobs under $120,000. Virginia Beach building department runs tight inspections, so know the codes and schedule inspections early. Peak season April through September books solid, so line up crews and materials ahead of time. Storm season brings good money but requires fast response capability. Salt air eats materials, so spec accordingly and educate clients on maintenance. Military clientele appreciates straight talk and reliable scheduling.
Data Sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
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