Key takeaways
- Every contractor in Las Vegas must hold a state license
- Check for fines, not just complaints
- Trust reviews from paying customers
- Since the pandemic subs are harder to book and some left the state
By law every contractor and general contractor in Las Vegas must be licensed by the Nevada Contractors Board. That is the floor. The real question is what makes one general contractor better than another.
Some people say check for complaints. Others say do not worry about complaints as much as fines. A contractor who has been fined for bad work is a different matter from one who had a dispute.
Reviews help, but read them carefully. A review from a paying customer tells you what the work was like. A review from an outsider who did not like how the phone was answered tells you little. Two contractors can differ wildly on finishing touches and follow up, and only a customer sees that.
If you have information that would help other readers, send it to lasvegasgeneralcontractor@gmail.com.
What problems are Las Vegas general contractors running into?
Since the pandemic, general contractors in Las Vegas have had trouble getting subcontractors to show up on time. Many blame the early unemployment payments, which paid some people around $4,000 a month to stay home. Even workers making $5,000 a month or more had that option. One general contractor fell so far behind that he stopped answering his phone because he could barely handle the work he already had.
Some contractors have simply moved to other states such as Texas and Florida. Those states have no income tax, like Nevada, plus more skilled workers, a larger population, and a contractor board that allows unlimited project budgets.
For most, being a contractor in Las Vegas has still been good. Some just want to see something new.
Seven reasons to be a Las Vegas general contractor
- Great weather most of the year.
- The city is still growing.
- There is plenty of land.
- Las Vegas is affordable compared with many places.
- Nevada has no income tax.
- There is always something to do.
- It is one of the best cities to retire in.
If you are a licensed Las Vegas contractor looking to work for other general contractors, reach out. HR Builders is looking for licensed contractors in painting, stucco, concrete, flooring, bathrooms, kitchens and more.