Liam AndersonA couple years ago, I decided to renovate my kitchen. I found this “reliable” general contractor online for a good deal and barrelled forward eagerly.
Fast forward a month, though, and my kitchen looked like a tornado hit it. I was surviving on microwave dinners, and the only thing my contractor excelled at was ghosting me.
After that disaster, I decided to do my homework and track down the top general contractors in Vancouver. After observing a few contractors in action and speaking to their former clients, I ended up with a best-of list and made my second choice (which worked out better!) from those.
Anyway, since the Waterview team was privy to my contract catastrophe, they knew about it and asked me to turn my picks into an article. That’s what I’ll share with you today!
| How much does it cost to hire a general contractor in Vancouver? In Vancouver, expect to spend at least $50 per hour for most general contractors’ services. Others may charge at least a 10% fee of the overall construction project cost along with a fixed hourly rate. This price is just an estimate and will vary depending on the general contractor. |
How We Chose
1. Level One Construction
Address: 1314 Graveley St, Vancouver, BC V5L 4Y2, Canada
Contact Details: +16046471718
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
Website: Level One Construction
A friend of mine hired Level One for their home renovation, and apparently, it was one of the decisions they made.
From what I saw, the builders from Level One absolutely crushed it—beautiful and functional. My friend was aiming for a mix of modern and vintage, and Level One totally delivered.
What really impressed my friend (he said) was how open and communicative the whole team was. From day one, they kept my friend in the loop at every stage.
This seems to happen in a lot of Level One’s projects, actually. Most of the other past clients I talked to said the same thing and praised how “in-control” it made them feel.
However, from what I was told, they also occasionally hit delays due to supply chain issues. On the bright side, the clients who reported this issue said the company still kept them updated even then, which kept them from getting too upset.
Anyway, it’s hard to find bad things to say about this one. Perhaps the only other thing I’d note is that because they’re in high demand, it can be tricky to get on their schedule.
Pros
- Beautiful, functional work
- Open, communicative team
- Quick issue resolution
- Transparent process
Cons
- Occasional supply chain delays
- Difficult to book due to high demand
Customer Reviews
Incredibly professional and would be welcome back anytime
We had Level One in to do a major renovation, which included structural changes and we couldn’t be happier with the work they did (all while we lived here). From the initial meeting with Alex Dumitru on budgeting to the fantastic work Alex Popov and crew did, then Alex Robinson managing the show, we were in his hands. The level of care and detail the entire crew put in was awesome. From everyone at Level One, to each trade they brought in were incredibly professional and would be welcome back anytime. Thanks for the fantastic work, we couldn’t be happier.
– Steve Watsons, Google Reviews
Level one is the gold standard for renovation in Vancouver
“Level one is the gold standard for renovation in Vancouver. If you’re looking to do a renovation, look no further. Level one provided me with precise budgeting, materials and a defined timeframe. More importantly, they delivered on everything that they said they would do. The project was managed skillfully, trades showed up on time, and the quality of finishing was top tier. I had high expectations when I agreed to our renovation. Alex D, Wayne and everyone involved in our project absolutely delivered in every aspect. Contractors that are honest and care about the quality of work that they deliver are very hard to come by. Level one is the real deal. Would absolutely recommend Level One to anyone looking for a quality renovation.”
– Tom James, Google Reviews
2. 21 Renovations
Address: 1080 Pacific St, Vancouver, BC V6E 4C2, Canada
Contact Details: +17789384304
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 6 PM
Website: 21 Renovations
I recently had the chance to check out 21 Renovations and chat with a friend who used their services. Her glowing review of them piqued my curiosity. From what I’ve observed and heard, they’re definitely one of the go-to choices for home remodelling.
First off, they really know how to transform kitchens into dream spaces. You can tell they bring a lot of skill and care to each project just by looking at their work (think super-finished edges and details).
Anyway, my friend raved about their communication, mentioning how great it was to stay in the loop throughout her remodel, which made the whole process way less stressful.
Contacting their other clients also revealed that they tend to stick to their timelines, so you’re not left hanging forever, waiting to enjoy your new space.
On the downside, they’re a bit expensive and pretty popular (so, hard to book). Plus, they tend to take on large projects, so if you’re thinking of just a small update, they might not be the best choice.
Pros
- Skilled and experienced team
- Excellent communication
- Stick to timelines
- High-quality work
Cons
- Expensive
- High demand/long wait times
- Focus on large projects
Customer Reviews
Our project manager (Juan) was fantastic and did a great job heading up the project
“We used 21 Renos for a major home renovation and are very pleased with the results. After dealing with multiple other shady contractors prior to finding them, we were pleased that Sasha provided an exact timeline and quote for the work. He was honest and up front about all costs. The work was finished on time, and without added costs beyond what was initially quoted. They are not cheap, but you get what you pay for in quality. Given the experiences I had with other companies, I would most definitely recommend 21 renos. Our project manager (Juan) was fantastic and did a great job heading up the project.”
– Evan O Connor, Google Reviews
Everyone was so hard working, professional and pleasant
“I cannot begin to express what a great job these guys did. My apartment is pretty old and there were some challenging surprises (like my horribly uneven and cracked floors) but Dejan and the crew got things done one time and within the expected budget (I still don’t know how they managed to work their magic the way they did). Everyone was so hard working, professional and pleasant to have around. They made the whole experience so enjoyable I kind of miss having them around :). Oh yeah, and the kitchen and bathroom look really great!!! Thank you so much, Sasha and Dejan and every one else (especially the tile guys who worked late!). You guys are awesome!”
– Veronika Smolik, Google Reviews
3. Heilman Renovations
Address: 173 Forester St #105, North Vancouver, BC V7H 0A6, Canada
Contact Details: +17788937818
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Website: Heilman Renovations
Heilman Renovations is among the most-often-recommended contractors in the area for a reason. According to their clients, Joe Heilman and his team are fantastic from the get-go, guiding clients smoothly through every step and really listening to their ideas.
Plus, from what I’ve seen of their work quality, it’s top-notch. The finished work I saw displayed major attention to detail—like the custom cabinetry and high-end finishes.
Talking to their customers also told me that they make the experience stress-free by handling everything in-house. However, they do seem to be on the pricier end of things. Still, the quality and final look may make the cost worth it.
Pros
- Excellent communication
- High-quality workmanship
- Stress-free experience
Cons
- Potential for higher overall costs
Customer Reviews
Joe is very experienced, and also works with a highly skilled team
“We were super happy with the whole process of this renovation. Joe is very experienced, and also works with a highly skilled team (the electrical and tiling were great). He had excellent suggestions (get the bidet seat!) but also worked collaboratively with our ideas. Here are a few Before/During/After photos of the bathroom which we are LOVING. Thank you!”
– Maria Watson, Google Reviews
I witnessed firsthand the exceptional quality of work they deliver
“I had the opportunity to work with Joe and his company, Heilman Renovations, for some time, and during that period, I witnessed firsthand the exceptional quality of work they deliver, which is arguably the best in Vancouver. Before working with Heilman Renovations, I had experience with several other construction companies, but none were as organized and client-focused as Heilman Renovations. Joe is incredibly detail-oriented, leaving nothing to chance. Moreover, he is a genuinely good person and very friendly. He is one of those individuals for whom perfection is a given. As a carpenter and Contractor myself, I can guarantee that engaging Heilman Renovations for your project will be one of the best decisions you make. I wholeheartedly recommend Joe and his company.”
– Radovan Milojevic, Google Reviews
4. Hallmark Projects Ltd
Address: 997 Seymour St #250, Vancouver, BC V6B 3M1, Canada
Contact Details: +17783205413
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
Website: Hallmark Projects Ltd
I recently checked out the work of Hallmark Projects Ltd for an office renovation. From what I’ve seen, I have to say they have an eye for detail and quality materials.
Based on what I was told, right from the start, their team showed a lot of professionalism. They took care of everything—from planning the layout to nailing the final touches.
What really stood out to their former clients, though, was the open communication. They kept everyone updated at every phase, making sure everyone was happy with each move before proceeding. Again, that’s something I look for in contractors, so it won them points in my book!
However, some also told me that their projects took a bit longer than they originally estimated. And there were moments when they had to remind them about certain design elements that were previously discussed.
Pros
- Professional and comprehensive service
- Open communication
- Attention to detail and quality materials
Cons
- Project timeline exceeded original estimate
- Occasional need for design reminders
Customer Reviews
Did a fantastic job with their client’s kitchen renovation
“We worked with Taylor at Hallmark Construction on a recent project. Taylor was very professional and caring. They did a fantastic job with their client’s kitchen renovation. Looking forward to working with them again. Zoltan P. – Metro Glass”
– Zoltan P, Google Review
Hallmark was very attentive to my restoration project
“Hallmark was very attentive to my restoration project. The job was done quickly and they were quick to come back to fix up any deficiencies. Would highly recommend to others.”
– Alex Lam, Google Reviews
5. HomeJoy Construction
Address: 1499 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2T1, Canada
Contact Details:+17787078777
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Website: HomeJoy Construction
I got to check out two kitchens completely remodelled by HomeJoy, and the transformation was nothing short of amazing. One homeowner even showed me a “before” photo and it was incredible how different the “after” looked.
From what I’ve heard, this contractor is known for output like that. Plus, their creativity and out-of-the-box thinking really stands out, so clients say they often have clever solutions for every challenge that pops up.
As a bonus, they’re big on sustainability. They used eco-friendly materials and the latest power tools in the two sites I actually visited, so it’s a remodel the homeowners felt good about in more ways than one.
Just a heads-up, though: these guys are pretty popular (of course!). The people I talked to made it clear that there was even a bit of a wait to get started in both their cases since they didn’t book early enough.
Pros
- Stunning transformation
- Creative and innovative solutions
- Eco-conscious approach
Cons
- Potential wait times
Customer Reviews
Their team maintained professionalism, cleanliness, and punctuality
“I recently worked with Homejoy Construction for my kitchen and bathroom renovation, and the experience was outstanding. Their team maintained professionalism, cleanliness, and punctuality throughout, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. Their commitment to cleanliness minimized disruption, and they completed the project on time. Despite their top-notch service, their pricing was competitive. I highly recommend Homejoy Construction for anyone seeking quality renovation work. They exceeded my expectations, transforming my home into a space I adore.”
– Armin K, Google Reviews
The Homejoy designer went above and beyond
“The Homejoy team completely transformed my shower by removing the bathtub and creating a custom standing shower. The Homejoy designer went above and beyond, especially with the selection of the standing shower walls in blue. Thanks to their efforts, my bathroom is now truly the best and I love it.”
– Hannah Goharjoo, Google Review
