The Board
ENES

General Contracting Contractors in Spokane, Washington

Licensed Establishments

2,894

U.S. Census Bureau

Peak Season

April through September - optimal weather for exterior work and additions

Estimate

Avg. Response Time

3-7 business days for estimates, 2-8 weeks to start work depending on project scope

Estimate

Common Job Costs

ServiceCost Range
Kitchen remodel (mid-range)$25,000 – $65,000
Bathroom remodel (full)$15,000 – $35,000
Room addition (per sq ft)$150 – $300
Basement finishing$20,000 – $50,000
Deck construction (composite)$8,000 – $18,000
Roof replacement (asphalt)$12,000 – $25,000

Licensing Requirements

Licensing Requirements

Washington State Contractor License required. Must pass business law exam and trade-specific exam. Minimum 4 years experience or equivalent education. $85 application fee plus $35 exam fee. Renew every 2 years with 8 hours continuing education.

Permit Requirements

Building permits required through City of Spokane Building Services for structural work, additions, major remodels. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits needed for respective trades. Permit fees range $100-$2000+ based on project valuation.

Inspection Schedule

Foundation inspection before concrete pour, framing inspection before insulation, rough electrical/plumbing/mechanical before drywall, final inspection before occupancy. Schedule 24-48 hours in advance through Spokane Building Services.

Insurance Minimums

General liability minimum $50,000 per occurrence, $100,000 aggregate. Many contractors carry $1-2 million. Workers compensation required if employees. Bond amount varies by project value, minimum $12,000 for state license.

How to Get Licensed

  1. 1

    Meet experience requirements

    Document 4 years construction experience in supervisory role or equivalent education. Gather employment records, contracts, and reference letters.

  2. 2

    Complete application

    Submit contractor license application to Washington State Department of Labor & Industries with $85 fee. Include experience documentation and business formation documents.

  3. 3

    Pass required exams

    Schedule and pass business law exam and general contractor trade exam. Study materials available through L&I. $35 exam fee per test.

  4. 4

    Obtain bond and insurance

    Secure contractor bond (minimum $12,000) and general liability insurance before license approval. Submit proof to L&I.

  5. 5

    Receive license

    L&I issues contractor license upon successful completion of all requirements. License valid for 2 years with continuing education requirements for renewal.

About This Market

Spokane's general contracting market runs steady year-round with 2,894 licensed establishments statewide competing for work. Kitchen and bathroom remodels dominate the residential sector, while commercial tenant improvements drive the business side. Costs stay 10-15% below Seattle metro due to lower labor and material transport costs. Competition is moderate - enough work to go around but you better know your numbers and deliver quality. The market favors contractors who can handle permitting efficiently and maintain relationships with local subs.

To work Spokane effectively, get your Washington contractor license sorted first - the state doesn't mess around with unlicensed work. Learn the City of Spokane permit process inside and out; their building department runs tight ship but fair. Peak season April through September means line up your major projects early. Winter months focus on interior work and maintenance contracts. Keep your liability insurance current and maintain good standing with L&I. Local building inspectors know their stuff - come prepared and don't try to cut corners.

Data Sources:

Licensed establishments count: US Census Bureau, County Business PatternsLicensing requirements: Washington State Department of Labor & IndustriesPermit requirements: City of Spokane Building Services DepartmentInsurance requirements: Washington State Department of Labor & IndustriesCost estimates: Regional contractor estimates

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a general contractor license in Washington?▾
4-8 weeks after submitting complete application with required experience documentation. Must pass business law exam and trade exam. Washington State Department of Labor & Industries processes applications.
What permits do I need for a kitchen remodel in Spokane?▾
Building permit for structural changes, electrical permit for new circuits, plumbing permit for water line changes, mechanical permit for ventilation. Apply through City of Spokane Building Services Department.
How much does general contractor insurance cost in Spokane?▾
General liability insurance typically costs $1,200-$3,000 annually for $1-2 million coverage, depending on revenue and claims history. Workers compensation rates vary by payroll classification through Washington State Fund.
What experience counts toward Washington contractor license requirements?▾
4 years documented construction experience in supervisory capacity, or combination of experience and construction-related education. Military construction experience and apprenticeship programs count toward requirement.
Can I pull my own permits as a homeowner in Spokane?▾
Yes, homeowners can pull permits for their primary residence work. However, electrical and plumbing work may require licensed contractor depending on scope. Check with City of Spokane Building Services for specific requirements.

Contractors in Spokane

0 general contracting contractors in Spokane.

No contractors listed yet.

List your services

Are you a general contracting contractor in Spokane?

Get listed on The Board free. Manage your leads, jobs, and follow-ups with The Forge.

Get Listed Free