Checklist: how to hire a general contractor in Portland
- Check the CCB license. Search the business name or license number at the Oregon CCB website. Confirm it is active, bonded and insured, and look for complaints.
- Make sure the license fits the job. Residential work needs a residential endorsement.
- Get written, itemized bids. Compare the same scope: materials, labor, demolition, permits, cleanup and timeline.
- Ask who does the work. Find out which parts are done by the contractor’s own crew and which by subcontractors.
- Check reviews and references. Look for recent Portland-area projects similar to yours.
- Ask about permits. A good contractor tells you which permits your project needs and pulls them.
- Get a written contract. In Oregon, residential contracts over $2,000 must be in writing, and contractors must give you required consumer notices.
- Agree on a payment schedule. Tie payments to completed milestones, not dates.
How much does a general contractor cost in Portland?
| Project | Typical 2026 range |
|---|---|
| General contractor fee (management, overhead, profit) | 10% – 20% of project cost |
| Concrete driveway | $9 – $16 per sq ft |
| Concrete patio | $8 – $18 per sq ft |
| Retaining wall | $20 – $55 per face sq ft |
| Wood fence | $30 – $65 per linear ft |
Typical Portland-area ranges. Get written quotes for your exact project.
Questions to ask before you hire
- What is your CCB license number?
- Have you done projects like mine in Portland recently? Can I see photos?
- Who will be on site each day, and who is my main contact?
- Which permits does this project need, and who pulls them?
- What is included in your price, and what would be extra?
- How do you handle change orders and rain delays?
- What warranty do you offer on workmanship?
Red flags when hiring a contractor
- No CCB number, or a license that’s expired or in a different name
- Asking for most of the money up front, or cash only
- No written contract or vague scope
- A bid far lower than others with no explanation
- Pressure to decide immediately, or offers to skip permits
What does a general contractor do?
A general contractor plans the job, schedules crews and subcontractors, orders materials, pulls permits, manages inspections and makes sure the work matches the plans and budget. For outdoor projects that involve several trades, such as grading, concrete, walls, fences and landscaping, one contractor managing everything saves time and reduces mistakes. Read more about hiring a concrete contractor in Portland or see our general contractor services in Portland, OR.
AG General Contractor LLC is licensed with the Oregon CCB (#246953). Call (504) 446-4124 or request a free estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check a contractor’s license in Oregon?
Search the contractor’s business name or license number on the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) website. It shows license status, bond, insurance and complaint history.
How much do general contractors charge in Portland?
Most general contractors add about 10% to 20% of the total project cost to cover project management, overhead and profit. Some charge a fixed fee instead.
Does Oregon require a written contract for home improvement work?
Yes. Oregon requires a written contract for residential construction work over $2,000, and licensed contractors must provide required consumer notices.
How many bids should I get for a home project?
Two to three written bids for the same scope is a good rule. Compare what each includes, not just the total price.
What should a contractor’s estimate include?
A good estimate lists the scope of work, materials, labor, demolition, permits, cleanup, timeline, payment schedule and any exclusions.
Main service: General contractor in Portland, OR
Also serving: Troutdale. Request a free estimate.
AG General Contractor LLC is a licensed Oregon contractor (CCB #246953) based in Portland, OR. We build and repair concrete driveways, patios, fire pits, retaining walls and fences for homeowners across the Portland metro area. About us · Get a free quote · (504) 446-4124