Choosing the right general contractor in Los Angeles can make or break your renovation, addition, or custom build. With thousands of licensed contractors across LA County, finding one that combines quality craftsmanship, transparent pricing, and reliable communication isn’t easy. We evaluated dozens of Los Angeles-based general contractors based on years in business, verified customer reviews, licensing status, service breadth, and pricing transparency to bring you this curated list.
Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel in Beverly Hills or building an ADU in Sherman Oaks, this guide helps you identify the contractor that best fits your project needs and budget.
Quick Comparison Table
| Company | Best For | Rating | Service Area | Phone |
| Joel & Co. Construction | High-end custom builds & remodels | 4.9/5 (Google) | Los Angeles County | (310) 728-6181 |
| Shecter Design & Build | Kitchen & bath remodels | 5.0/5 (Google) | Woodland Hills area | (310) 945-2387 |
| Cavalier Builders Inc. | ADU construction & conversions | 4.9/5 (Yelp) | Southern California | (800) 749-5765 |
| EcoSmart Development | Eco-friendly builds & fire rebuilds | 4.8/5 (Google) | LA & surrounding areas | (877) 690-0333 |
| Platinum Home Builders | Full-service remodeling | 5/5 (Google) | LA & Orange County | (877) 350-4519 |
| We The People Construction | 3D project visualization | 4.8/5 (Google) | LA, San Fernando, OC | (818) 740-4687 |
| Ground Up Builders | Ahead-of-schedule delivery | 4.9/5 (Google) | Los Angeles County | (844) 247-6863 |
Joel & Co. Construction
Location: 11693 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Service Area: Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Culver City, Encino, Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Tarzana, West Hollywood, Northridge, Woodland Hills
Phone: (310) 728-6181
Rating: 4.9/5 (Google)
Pricing: Available on request
Website: https://losangelesgeneralcontractor.com
Founded in the 1980s, Joel & Co. Construction brings over 40 years of experience to the Los Angeles market. The company has built its reputation on a client-first philosophy centered around integrity, honesty, and transparency. They specialize in delivering refined, well-built homes through collaborative partnerships with architects, engineers, and designers.
Key Services:
- General contracting
- Custom home building
- Kitchen and bathroom remodeling
- ADU and room additions
- Commercial construction
Pros:
- Exceptional responsiveness via calls, texts, and emails
- Crews maintain clean, organized work areas daily
- Over 7,000 completed projects since the 1980s
Cons:
- Premium pricing may not suit budget-conscious projects
With a 4.9-star Google rating and four decades of local experience, Joel & Co. Construction excels at high-end residential projects where quality and communication matter most. Their deep knowledge of Los Angeles building codes and zoning regulations helps navigate complex permitting processes.
Shecter Design & Build
Location: 21243 Ventura Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Service Area: Woodland Hills and surrounding areas
Phone: (310) 945-2387
Rating: 5.0/5 (Google)
Pricing: Available on request
Website: https://shecterdnb.com/
Shecter Design & Build is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor (Lic #1080682) that specializes in residential remodeling. The company works closely with architects and designers to create functional, beautiful spaces while maintaining expert knowledge of zoning laws and building codes.
Key Services:
- Kitchen remodeling
- Bathroom remodeling
- Room additions and ADU conversions
- General remodeling
- Deck construction
Pros:
- Perfect 5.0 rating across multiple platforms
- Unwavering attention to detail in workmanship
- Strong knowledge of local zoning and code requirements
Cons:
- Limited public project portfolio available online
Shecter Design & Build is ideal for homeowners in the Woodland Hills area seeking top-tier craftsmanship on kitchen and bathroom projects. Their perfect review scores reflect consistent delivery on quality and customer expectations.
Cavalier Builders Inc.
Location: 20121 Ventura Blvd #208, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Service Area: Southern California, including Agoura Hills, Burbank, Calabasas, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks
Phone: (800) 749-5765
Rating: 4.9/5 (Yelp)
Pricing: Available on request (BuildZoom project ranges: under $5k to $50k+)
Website: https://www.cavalierbuildersinc.com/
Established in 1999, Cavalier Builders Inc. is a third-generation, family-owned remodeling company serving Southern California. With 25 years of experience, they’ve earned recognition, including a BBB A+ rating, Best of Houzz awards, and a consistent “People Love Us on Yelp” status. The company emphasizes transparent contracts and professional, considerate service.
Key Services:
- ADU construction
- Bathroom and kitchen remodeling
- Room additions and garage conversions
- Painting and roofing
Pros:
- Excellent communication and timeliness
- BBB A+ rating and multiple Houzz awards
- Transparent, detailed contracts
Cons:
- Project scope primarily focuses on residential remodeling rather than new builds
Cavalier Builders Inc. stands out for clients who value communication and efficiency. Their family-operated approach and stellar reputation make them particularly reliable for ADU projects and garage conversions throughout LA County.
EcoSmart Development & Construction Inc.
Location: 5000 Parkway Calabasas, Suite 114, Calabasas, CA 91302
Service Area: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Burbank, Culver City, Pasadena, Long Beach, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills
Phone: (877) 690-0333, (818) 338-6447
Rating: 4.8/5 (Google)
Pricing: Available on request
Website: https://ecosmartbuilders.com/
EcoSmart Development & Construction differentiates itself through a commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable building practices. The company integrates green building techniques and materials throughout its projects to reduce environmental impact and promote energy efficiency. They specialize in both new construction and renovation work.
Key Services:
- Home expansions
- Fire rebuilds
- ADU construction
- Custom homes
- Home extensions
Pros:
- Strong focus on sustainable, eco-friendly building
- Praised for professionalism and reliability
- Specialized expertise in fire rebuild projects
Cons:
- Years in business and specific credentials not publicly confirmed
- Fewer online reviews compared to some competitors
EcoSmart is the right choice for environmentally conscious homeowners who want to minimize their carbon footprint without compromising on quality. Their fire rebuild expertise also makes them valuable for disaster recovery projects across Los Angeles.
Platinum Home Builders & Design Inc.
Location: 5170 Sepulveda Blvd # 280, Sherman Oaks, CA 91430
Service Area: Los Angeles and Orange County
Phone: 888-920-0793
Rating: 5/5 (Google)
Pricing: Available on request
Website: https://platinum-homebuilders.com/
With 20+ years of experience, Platinum Home Builders & Design Inc. is a family-owned and operated company emphasizing customer service and quality craftsmanship. They aim to make the remodeling process hassle-free by guiding clients through every step of their project requirements.
Key Services:
- Full-service home remodeling
- Roofing (installation, repair, replacement, cleaning)
- Kitchen and bathroom remodeling
- Custom craftsmanship
Pros:
- Exceptional customer service and responsiveness
- Over 20 years of family-operated experience
- Strong guidance through project planning and execution
Cons:
- The official website experienced technical issues (500 error) during research, limiting access to portfolio details
Platinum Home Builders is well-suited for clients who prioritize customer service and want experienced guidance through complex remodeling decisions. Their strong Thumbtack rating (4.9 stars) reflects consistent satisfaction with both communication and finished work.
We The People Construction
Location: 958 N Western Ave, Suite 10076, Hollywood, CA 90029
Service Area: LA County, San Fernando Valley, Orange County, Ventura County
Phone: (818) 740-4687
Rating: 4.8/5 (Google)
Pricing: Available on request
Website: https://wtpconstruction.com/
We The People Construction sets itself apart through radical transparency and advanced project visualization. They offer 3D modeling of projects before construction begins, allowing clients to visualize outcomes before committing. The company provides upfront breakdowns of materials, scope, and budget with no hidden fees, and they’re fully licensed (#1076924).
Key Services:
- Kitchen and bathroom remodeling
- ADU and home additions
- Roofing services
- Hardscaping
Pros:
- 3D modeling for pre-construction visualization
- Transparent pricing with detailed material and scope breakdowns
- Strong ratings across multiple review platforms
Cons:
- One reported negative customer experience on Reddit, alleging service quality issues
- Mixed reviews suggest occasional communication or delivery inconsistencies
While We The People Construction offers innovative visualization tools and generally strong reviews, potential clients should conduct thorough due diligence. The 3D modeling feature is particularly valuable for complex remodels where visualizing spatial changes matters most.
Ground Up Builders
Location: 14520 Erwin St, Van Nuys, CA 91411
Service Area: Los Angeles County
Phone: (844) 247-6863
Rating: 4.9 stars (Google), 4.7 stars (Yelp)
Pricing: Available on request
Website: https://groundupbuilders.com/
Ground Up Builders is a licensed (CSLB Lic 911849), insured, family-owned business with over 16 years of experience. The company has earned Best of Houzz recognition in 2012, 2022, and 2024, along with IICRC and D-U-N-S registration. They’re known for exceptional project management and frequently completing work ahead of schedule.
Key Services:
- General contracting
- ADU construction and garage conversions
- Home remodeling (kitchen, bathroom, additions)
- Roofing and energy-efficient upgrades
Pros:
- Consistently delivers projects ahead of schedule
- Excellent communication and project management
- Multiple Best of Houzz awards and IICRC certification
Cons:
- Projects may experience delays due to the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) permit processes beyond the contractor’s control
Ground Up Builders excels for clients who value timeliness and clear communication. Their track record of early completions and strong customer relationships makes them reliable for both small remodels and larger ADU projects across LA County.
How to Choose the Right Los Angeles General Contractor for Your Project
The best general contractor for your Los Angeles project depends on your specific needs. Joel & Co. Construction and Platinum Home Builders excel at comprehensive full-service remodeling with strong customer support. Cavalier Builders Inc. and Ground Up Builders lead in ADU construction and timely delivery. Shecter Design & Build and EcoSmart Development serve niche markets, design-build integration, and sustainable building, respectively. We The People Construction offers innovative visualization tools, though review history warrants careful vetting.
For high-end custom work with established track records, Joel & Co.’s 40+ years of experience delivers proven results. Budget-conscious clients focusing on smaller projects should consider Cavalier Builders or Ground Up Builders, both of which offer transparent pricing and strong communication. Eco-minded homeowners will find EcoSmart’s sustainable approach aligned with green building goals. Always obtain multiple bids, verify licensing and insurance, check references, and ensure detailed written contracts before committing to any contractor.
Reach out to your preferred contractors to discuss your project goals, request a detailed estimate, and determine which team best fits your timeline, budget, and vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a general contractor cost in Los Angeles?
General contractor costs in Los Angeles vary widely based on project scope, materials, and complexity. Small remodels may start under $5,000, while kitchen and bathroom renovations typically range from $20,000 to $100,000+. ADU construction often runs $150,000 to $400,000, depending on size and finishes. Custom home builds can exceed $500,000. Most contractors charge either a percentage of total project cost (10-20%) or a fixed fee. Always obtain multiple detailed bids and clarify whether pricing includes permits, materials, and labor.
What should I look for when hiring a general contractor in Los Angeles?
Verify active California contractor licensing (CSLB), adequate insurance (general liability and workers’ compensation), and bonding. Check references and review portfolios of completed work similar to your project. Assess communication style during initial consultations. Ensure detailed written contracts that specify scope, timeline, payment schedule, materials, and change order processes. Confirm knowledge of local building codes and permit requirements. Review online ratings across multiple platforms (Yelp, Google, Thumbtack, BBB) for consistent feedback patterns.
Do I need permits for my Los Angeles renovation project?
Most structural work, room additions, ADUs, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC modifications require permits from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). Minor cosmetic updates like painting or cabinet replacements typically don’t require permits. Your general contractor should handle permit applications, though permit fees are usually separate from contractor costs. Unpermitted work can result in fines, difficulty selling your property, and safety issues. Always confirm permit requirements with your contractor and local building department before starting work.
How long does a typical remodeling project take in Los Angeles?
Kitchen remodels typically take 6-12 weeks, bathroom remodels 4-8 weeks, and room additions 3-6 months. ADU construction generally requires 6-12 months, including permitting. Custom home builds often take 12-18+ months. Los Angeles permit processing can add weeks or months to timelines. Project complexity, material availability, weather, and contractor scheduling all impact duration. Reputable contractors provide realistic timelines with milestone dates in their contracts.
What’s the difference between a general contractor and a design-build firm?
General contractors execute construction based on plans provided by architects or designers you hire separately. Design-build firms provide both design and construction services under one contract, streamlining communication and potentially reducing costs and timeline. Design-build works well for clients who want a single point of responsibility. Separate architect and contractor relationships offer more design control and competitive bidding options. Companies like Shecter Design & Build and Platinum Home Builders offer design-build services, while others focus purely on construction execution.
