Not sure which contractor to call? Start with the work you need done. Use this guide to choose a trade, understand where scopes overlap and ask for an estimate that covers the whole project.
Already know the trade? Browse the main contractor directory.
Match the project to a contractor type
A new deck, deck replacement or loose stairs and railings
Start with a deck contractor. Ask who evaluates the framing, footings, connections and any reused structure. A surface replacement and a structural rebuild need different scopes.
A detached garage, workshop or garage addition
Start with a garage builder. Confirm who coordinates design, sitework, foundation, utilities, permits and finish work. Living space above a garage adds design and approval questions.
Standing water, a wet yard or runoff near the house
Start with a drainage contractor to evaluate the water source, elevations and discharge options. If walls or foundations are affected, also review waterproofing or foundation-repair expertise. Ask for a diagnosis before choosing a system.
A driveway, patio or concrete slab
Compare driveway contractors, patio contractors or concrete contractors for the intended surface. Make base preparation, drainage, vehicle loads, removal and restoration part of the same written scope.
A new swimming pool or an unwanted pool
For installation or renovation, research pool contractors. For removal, compare the removal capabilities of demolition and excavation contractors. Confirm removal method, utilities, disposal, fill and the planned use of the land.
A wooded lot, site access, trenching or earthwork
Use a land-clearing contractor for vegetation removal and an excavation contractor for earthwork. Ask whether grading, drainage, material hauling and the next construction phase are included or separately assigned.
A roof leak, damaged siding or overflowing gutters
Choose among roofing, siding and gutter contractors after the source is evaluated. Ask who handles flashing and repairs behind the visible surface when more than one exterior system is involved.
A kitchen, bathroom, addition or several trades in one renovation
Start with a remodeling contractor when the work needs coordinated demolition, finishes and multiple trades. A focused plumber, electrical contractor or HVAC contractor may fit a defined system repair.
A fence, gate or pool barrier
Research fence contractors. Identify the material, layout, gates, property-line information and purpose. Pool barriers require scope-specific planning rather than a standard privacy-fence assumption.
When more than one trade is involved
Ask who is responsible for the entire sequence. A garage may need clearing, concrete, framing and electrical work; drainage may affect a driveway or patio. The proposal should name the lead contractor, assigned subcontractors, exclusions and the handoff between phases.
Give each bidder the same project description. Include the address or city, photos, approximate dimensions, intended use, access constraints and timing. Compare inclusions and assumptions before comparing the final price.
Research guides and available project review
ServiceGoat’s national categories are hiring guides. Direct project review is currently focused on Hampton Roads and depends on the service, location and contractor route. A guide does not guarantee local contractor availability.
Browse Hampton Roads service coverage, research by city or request a project review. ServiceGoat reviews the request before confirming a contractor route.
Questions about choosing a contractor type
What if I do not know which trade I need?
Describe the problem and the result you want, rather than guessing the repair. Share photos and the location. Ask the contractor to explain the diagnosis, scope and whether another specialist is needed.
Do I need one contractor or several?
A defined repair may fit one trade. A project with multiple systems or construction phases needs clear coordination. Ask who manages the other trades, permits, inspections, schedule and final restoration.
Does every category have a local ServiceGoat match?
No. National research coverage and direct matching are different. ServiceGoat checks the service, location and routing availability before confirming a contractor route.
Can I compare other contractors after requesting a match?
Yes. The optional one-contractor route does not replace your hiring decision or prevent additional estimates. Compare the same written scope, relevant project evidence and current credentials.