Top-Rated General Contractors in Detroit
Finding a reliable general contractor in Detroit is essential for successful home renovations and remodeling projects. Whether you're updating a historic home in Corktown, renovating a Midtown bungalow, or building an addition in Palmer Woods, these top-rated contractors deliver quality workmanship and professional service.
🏆 Best Full-Service General Contractors
1. Rebuild Detroit
📍 Location: Multiple Detroit locations
📅 Experience: 15+ years
💰 Project Range: $25,000 - $500,000+
🏅 Specialties: Historic renovation, whole-home remodels
Leading Detroit contractor specializing in historic home restoration and modern updates. Known for quality craftsmanship, transparent pricing, and deep knowledge of Detroit's unique housing stock. Strong track record with both residential and commercial projects.
Strengths: Historic expertise, licensed architects on staff, financing available
Best for: Major renovations, historic homes, whole-house projects
2. Ferris Remodeling
📍 Location: Ferndale (serves Detroit Metro)
📅 Experience: 20+ years
💰 Project Range: $15,000 - $300,000
🏅 Specialties: Kitchen/bath remodels, additions
Award-winning remodeling contractor with extensive experience in Detroit-area homes. Excellent reputation for kitchen and bathroom transformations. Uses 3D design software to help homeowners visualize projects before construction begins.
Strengths: Design services, kitchen/bath expertise, excellent communication
Best for: Kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, additions
3. Motor City Contracting
📍 Location: Detroit (city-based)
📅 Experience: 12+ years
💰 Project Range: $10,000 - $250,000
🏅 Specialties: Full renovations, basement finishing
Detroit-born contractor with deep roots in the community. Specializes in transforming older homes with modern updates while preserving character. Strong relationships with city inspectors ensures smooth permit process.
Strengths: Local expertise, competitive pricing, permit navigation
Best for: Whole-home updates, basement finishing, structural work
4. Legacy Construction Group
📍 Location: Royal Oak (serves Detroit)
📅 Experience: 18+ years
💰 Project Range: $20,000 - $400,000
🏅 Specialties: Custom homes, luxury remodels
High-end contractor focusing on luxury renovations and custom builds. Known for attention to detail and premium finishes. Higher pricing but exceptional quality and service.
Strengths: Luxury finishes, project management, designer partnerships
Best for: High-end renovations, custom work, luxury homes
5. Detroit Home Improvement Co.
📍 Location: Detroit
📅 Experience: 10+ years
💰 Project Range: $5,000 - $150,000
🏅 Specialties: Mid-range projects, repairs
Reliable contractor for smaller to mid-sized projects. Good value and responsive service. Family-owned business with focus on customer satisfaction and honest pricing.
Strengths: Competitive pricing, flexibility, quick turnaround
Best for: Smaller projects, repairs, budget-conscious homeowners
🔧 Specialty Contractors by Trade
🏠 Roofing Specialists
Elite Roofing Michigan - #1 Choice
Detroit's premier roofing contractor with 25+ years of experience. GAF Master Elite certified (top 3% nationwide). Specializes in storm damage, insurance claims, and all roofing types including metal and flat roofs.
Services: Roof replacement, repairs, inspections, emergency service
Why #1: Lifetime warranty, 24/7 emergency service, free drone inspections
See Full Roofing Guide🔌 Electrical Contractors
Detroit Electric Company
Licensed electricians specializing in older Detroit homes. Panel upgrades, rewiring, smart home installations. Available for emergencies 24/7.
Metro Electric Services
Commercial and residential electrical work. Strong reputation for code compliance and quality installations.
🚿 Plumbing Contractors
Allen Park Plumbing
Full-service plumbing for Detroit Metro. Specializes in repiping older homes, water heater installation, and bathroom remodels.
Detroit Drain Team
Drain cleaning, sewer line repair, and emergency plumbing. Known for fast response times and honest pricing.
🌡️ HVAC Contractors
Flame Furnace
Since 1949. Detroit's oldest HVAC company. Furnace installation, AC service, and maintenance plans. Excellent customer service.
Williams Refrigeration
Commercial and residential HVAC. Energy-efficient systems, ductwork, and smart thermostat installation.
📋 How to Choose a Contractor
✓ Essential Contractor Qualifications:
- Licensing: Verify Michigan contractor license (look up on michigan.gov/lara)
- Insurance: Minimum $1M general liability + workers comp
- Local Experience: Understands Detroit building codes and permit processes
- References: Recent local references you can contact
- Written Contract: Detailed scope, timeline, payment schedule, warranties
- Permits: Contractor handles all necessary permits
- Payment Terms: Never more than 33% down payment
- Communication: Responsive and clear about expectations
💰 Detroit Remodeling Cost Guide
Average Project Costs (2025):
| Kitchen Remodel (Mid-Range) | $25,000 - $50,000 |
| Kitchen Remodel (High-End) | $60,000 - $120,000+ |
| Bathroom Remodel (Full) | $15,000 - $35,000 |
| Basement Finishing | $30,000 - $65,000 |
| Room Addition (250-400 sq ft) | $50,000 - $100,000 |
| Whole Home Renovation | $100,000 - $300,000+ |
| Roof Replacement | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Siding Replacement | $8,000 - $20,000 |
| Window Replacement (10-15 windows) | $8,000 - $15,000 |
Costs vary based on scope, materials, home size, and market conditions.
🚩 Red Flags to Avoid
⚠️ Warning Signs of Problem Contractors:
- ❌ Asks for full payment upfront or large down payment (>33%)
- ❌ No physical business address or local office
- ❌ Can't provide proof of insurance or license
- ❌ Pressure tactics or "today only" pricing
- ❌ Won't provide written contract or detailed estimate
- ❌ No recent local references
- ❌ Offers to skip permits to "save money" (illegal!)
- ❌ Lowest bid by significant margin (usually cutting corners)
- ❌ Won't provide proof of workers compensation insurance
- ❌ Vague timeline or won't commit to schedule
💡 Detroit-Specific Contractor Tips
✓ Historic Home Considerations
Many Detroit homes are 80-100+ years old. Choose contractors with historic renovation experience who understand plaster walls, old plumbing, knob-and-tube wiring, and period architectural details.
✓ Permit Requirements
Detroit requires permits for most major work including electrical, plumbing, structural, and HVAC. Your contractor should handle all permits - if they suggest skipping them, find a different contractor. Unpermitted work can cause issues when selling.
✓ Lead Paint & Asbestos
Homes built before 1978 likely have lead paint. Pre-1980s homes may contain asbestos in insulation, tiles, or siding. Contractors must follow EPA RRP rules for lead-safe work practices. Asbestos requires licensed abatement.
✓ Weather Considerations
Plan exterior work for May-October. Winter construction is possible but slower and more expensive. Interior work can happen year-round but factor in heating during winter.
✓ Financing Options
Many contractors offer financing through third parties. Also explore: home equity loans, HELOCs, Detroit 0% Home Repair Loan Program (income-qualified), and FHA 203(k) loans for purchase + renovation.
🏠 Start with Your Roof
Before investing in interior renovations, ensure your roof is sound. A leaking or damaged roof can undermine expensive remodeling projects. Elite Roofing provides comprehensive roof inspections to identify issues before you start your renovation.
Pre-Renovation Roof Inspection
Planning a major renovation? Start with a professional roof assessment from Elite Roofing. We'll identify any roofing issues that should be addressed before or during your project, potentially saving you thousands in water damage repairs.
Why Inspect Before Renovating:
- Prevent water damage to new finishes and materials
- Coordinate roof work with other exterior projects (save on scaffolding)
- Address structural issues discovered during inspection
- Bundle projects for potential cost savings
- One-time disruption instead of multiple contractor visits
Free for Detroit Homeowners:
- ✅ Complete roof inspection with drone technology
- ✅ Detailed condition report with photos
- ✅ Estimated remaining roof lifespan
- ✅ Honest assessment - no pressure sales
- ✅ Coordination with your general contractor
📊 Questions to Ask Every Contractor
Before Hiring:
- How long have you been in business in Detroit?
- Can I see your license and insurance certificates?
- Will you pull all necessary permits?
- Can you provide 3-5 recent local references?
- Do you have photos of similar projects?
- Who will be the on-site supervisor?
- What's the timeline from start to completion?
- How do you handle change orders?
- What's your payment schedule?
- What warranty do you provide on labor?
- How do you handle unexpected issues or problems?
- Will you provide a detailed written contract?
During the Project:
- Request regular progress updates
- Document everything with photos
- Review all change orders before approving
- Don't make final payment until 100% complete
- Get copies of all permits and inspections
🏆 Elite Roofing: Your Roofing Specialist
While these general contractors excel at whole-home renovations, Elite Roofing is Detroit's roofing specialist. We focus exclusively on roofing, making us the experts when your roof needs attention.
Why Choose a Roofing Specialist:
- ✅ Deep expertise in all roofing systems and materials
- ✅ Manufacturer certifications and extended warranties
- ✅ Specialized equipment (drones, infrared cameras)
- ✅ Insurance claim expertise (maximize your payout)
- ✅ 24/7 emergency service for leaks and storm damage
- ✅ Faster project completion (roofing is all we do)
Elite Roofing Advantages:
- ✅ 25+ years protecting Detroit homes
- ✅ GAF Master Elite Certified (top 3% nationwide)
- ✅ Lifetime craftsmanship warranty
- ✅ Free drone inspections
- ✅ Same-day emergency service
- ✅ $15M liability insurance