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Best Residential Renovation Contractors in San Francisco (2023)

September 12, 2024 13 Min Read

Our annual ranking of top construction firms highlights the top companies in San Francisco based on their project volume over the past year, with a focus on relevance. This compilation is derived from permit and contractor information sourced from city, county, and state building departments through our partners at BuildZoom. For further information regarding data accuracy, please consult the note at the end of this article.

Construction data has diverse applications across the industry, benefiting various stakeholders like subcontractors, suppliers, and developers. For businesses offering materials and services to general contractors, construction market data on key milestones and trends can help them target the right audience at the right time. By monitoring major events such as the start of significant projects, suppliers can strategically engage with contractors when new resources are most needed, boosting relevance and engagement. Understanding construction activity patterns also enables suppliers and service providers to focus on contractors who are on a growth path. Subcontractors can similarly use this data to identify and reach out to general contractors for potential project collaborations. For real estate developers, property owners, and others seeking reliable partners, construction data offers a way to validate the expertise and quality of contractors and subcontractors, providing crucial insights into their past performance and potential fit for new projects.

Business# Projects (’23)Average Contract Value
Villatoro & M Construction Inc 44 $8K
Avant Garde Construction Enterprise 32 $5K
A W T Construction Group Inc 20 $4K
L Columna General Contractor 13 $4K
Carroll Construction 12 $8K
Deabreu Construction Inc 10 $6K
Cerletti & Kennedy Design-Build 8 $1K
Peter Ellis Construction 6 $7K
Giovacchini Construction 6 $5K

Villatoro & M Construction Inc

Address:
1433 146th Ave., San Leandro, CA 94578

Villatoro & M Construction Inc. has been a distinguished name in the construction industry since its inception in 1998. With over 20 years of dedicated service, the company excels in a broad range of services, including new construction, remodels, painting, roofing, and waterproofing. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship, Villatoro & M Construction Inc. specializes in transforming both residential and commercial spaces, ensuring every project is completed with precision and care. Their commitment to quality is evident in their extensive experience and the lasting relationships they build with clients throughout the Bay Area. The company is fully bonded and insured, providing clients with peace of mind and protection against construction liabilities. From kitchen and bathroom remodels to complex roofing and waterproofing projects, Villatoro & M Construction Inc. consistently exceeds expectations. Their expertise extends to the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), catering to various needs from small jADUs to larger ADUs up to 1,200 square feet. Whether undertaking balcony repairs or tackling intricate painting jobs, the company remains dedicated to efficiency, clear communication, and delivering outstanding results.

The San Francisco Department of Building Inspection data was reviewed by the San Francisco Architects team to identify past projects completed by Villatoro & M Construction Inc. In 2019, the company undertook a 1,169 square foot, two-story addition, which included adding a family room and laundry closet on the first floor and a master bedroom with a walk-in closet on the second floor, totaling $170,000. Additionally, in 2020, Villatoro & M Construction Inc completed a $131,000 interior remodel project.


Avant Garde Construction Enterprise

Address:
1271 Washington Ave., #379, San Leandro, CA 94577

Avant-Garde Construction Enterprise stands as a premier general contracting firm specializing in residential construction across the San Francisco Bay Area. With a legacy of excellence spanning over two decades, Avant-Garde has cultivated enduring relationships with clients, employees, and subcontractors through a foundation of trust and outstanding performance. The company’s expertise encompasses a broad range of services, including new-home construction, remodels, additions, earthquake retrofits, accessory dwelling units, and comprehensive project management. Serving a diverse array of locations from Alameda to Walnut Creek, Avant-Garde is committed to exceeding client expectations with the highest-quality workmanship. The firm’s mission is driven by a solid work ethic, a passion for innovation, and a team of skilled professionals chosen for their craftsmanship and integrity. By maintaining a hands-on approach and ensuring personal involvement in every project, Avant-Garde delivers superior quality and exceptional customer satisfaction. Their dedication to staying current with industry advancements and their robust network of trusted subcontractors reflect a deep commitment to excellence in the field.

Data from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection was analyzed by the San Francisco Architects team to uncover past projects by Avant Garde Construction Enterprise. In 2016, the company worked on an addition to an existing single-family dwelling, a project valued at $125,000. More recently, in 2024, Avant Garde Construction Enterprise completed a residential interior alterations and remodel project, which was valued at $7,650.


A W T Construction Group Inc

Address:
4740 East 2nd St., Suite 22, Benicia, CA 94510

AWT Construction Group, Inc. stands out as a leading general contractor in Northern California, renowned for its expertise in multi-family and commercial construction. With over twenty years in the industry, AWT has established a reputation for quality control, efficiency, and comprehensive construction oversight. Specializing in occupied housing, such as apartment buildings and homeowners associations, the company excels in a wide range of services, including roofing, general construction, exterior components, painting, and specialized trades like HVAC, electrical work, and sheet metal fabrication. Under the leadership of James Kint, who has dedicated thirty-five years to the construction field, AWT has expanded its offerings to include a variety of trades and specialized services, ensuring detailed oversight and budget consciousness on every project. James’s legacy, rooted in his family’s spec home building business, is reflected in his commitment to excellence and his drive to mentor the next generation of craftsmen. AWT’s mission is to be a trusted and fair contractor, providing personalized attention to each project while maintaining a high standard of craftsmanship and client satisfaction.

Data from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection was also examined by the San Francisco Architects team to identify previous projects completed by A W T Construction Group Inc. In 2016, the company undertook a $220,000 R-3 dwelling-main-addition project. Additionally, in 2024, A W T Construction Group Inc. handled an $18,888 residential addition-alteration project.


L Columna General Contractor

Address:
5179 Lone Tree Wy., Suite 203, Antioch, CA 94531

L Columna General Contractor is a highly regarded firm with a reputation for delivering outstanding construction management across the Bay Area. With a focus on meeting project needs within budget and on schedule, L Columna has built a strong portfolio working with a wide range of clients, including cities, corporations, small businesses, churches, and residences. The company’s extensive service offerings include commercial remodeling, tenant improvements, ADA compliance, accessory dwelling units, and kitchen remodeling, showcasing their versatility and expertise. Their comprehensive approach encompasses pre-construction planning, design-build services, scheduling, estimating, and budgeting, as well as quality control, safety management, and post-construction support. L Columna prides itself on customizing solutions to fit each project’s unique requirements, resulting in consistently high-quality outcomes. The firm’s commitment to excellence is reflected in their ability to adapt to various client needs and maintain a high level of client satisfaction. With a proven track record and a dedicated team, L Columna stands out as a trusted partner for any construction project.

The San Francisco Architects team examined data from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection to identify past projects by L Columna General Contractor. In 2018, the contractor converted 72 square feet of garage space into conditioned space, remodeling the kitchen, and relocating the bathroom and laundry room—a project valued at $70,000. Additionally, in 2015, L Columna General Contractor completed a $120,000 fire damage repair project focused on the second story of an existing home.


Carroll Construction

Address:
885 Island Dr., # 206, Alameda, CA 94502

Carroll Construction, founded in 2002 by Tom Carroll, is a distinguished award-winning construction company with over 20 years of industry experience. Driven by Tom’s lifelong passion for construction, which began at the age of 17, the company has built a reputation for excellence in foundation replacement, structural building, general construction, and high-end finish carpentry and cabinet installation. Serving the Greater Bay Area from San Francisco to Alameda and Richmond to Castro Valley, Carroll Construction is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to client satisfaction. The company’s commitment to professionalism, honesty, and integrity is reflected in its extensive list of repeat and referencable clients. With a team of experienced professionals who treat every project as their own, Carroll Construction ensures high-quality results with minimal outsourcing. They operate with a unique approach, accepting no payments until work begins and completing projects without interruption. Their efficient, clean, and organized work ethic has earned them a reputation for reliability and excellence in both heavy construction and fine finish work.

The San Francisco Architects team reviewed data from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection to uncover previous projects by Carroll Construction. In 2024, the company undertook a $235,000 renovation of a single-family residence. In 2023, Carroll Construction completed a $280,903 project involving the conversion of 168 square feet of garage space into an ADU, along with a kitchen and bathroom remodel.


Deabreu Construction Inc

Address:
2308 Asilomar Dr., Antioch, CA 94509

DeAbreu Construction, Inc., a trusted name in the industry since 1985, brings over 30 years of expertise to every home improvement, demolition, construction, and remodeling project, with a proven track record of successful renovations and expansions.

The San Francisco Department of Building Inspection’s data was analyzed by the San Francisco Architects team to locate previous projects by Deabreu Construction Inc. In 2019, Deabreu Construction Inc undertook a $174,000 interior remodel of the ground floor, including the addition of a family room, bedroom, and bathroom. Additionally, in 2017, the company completed a project valued at $150,502, which involved adding a 162 sq ft master bedroom and bathroom at the front of the house, along with an extension to the back.


Cerletti & Kennedy Design-Build

Address:
2950 Buskirk Ave., #300, Walnut Creek, CA 94597

Cerletti & Kennedy Design-Build, based in Walnut Creek, boasts over 100 years of combined experience in the construction industry, making them a leading name in comprehensive design and construction services. Specializing in both residential and commercial projects, the company excels in delivering exceptional craftsmanship and personalized solutions. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of services, including kitchen and bathroom remodeling, room additions, and sunroom construction, each tailored to meet the unique needs and visions of their clients. The firm’s design-build approach streamlines the remodeling process, ensuring seamless coordination from initial design through to project completion. Known for their meticulous attention to detail and superior customer service, Cerletti & Kennedy Design-Build prides itself on creating spaces that reflect clients’ styles and functional requirements. Their commitment to integrity and quality is further underscored by their status as Andersen Certified Contractors, offering top-notch window replacement solutions. With a rich heritage of excellence and a focus on customer satisfaction, Cerletti & Kennedy Design-Build stands out as a trusted partner for transforming construction dreams into reality.

Data from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection was reviewed by the San Francisco Architects team to identify previous projects completed by Cerletti & Kennedy Design-Build. In 2023, the company carried out a project involving the addition of a new 300 sq. ft. bedroom and bathroom, with a total cost of $100,000. Earlier, in 2022, Cerletti & Kennedy Design-Build undertook another $100,000 project, which included adding a 223 sq. ft. attached ADU and an 84 sq. ft. primary bathroom.


Peter Ellis Construction

Address:
545 Cattail Dr., American Canyon, CA 94503

Peter Ellis Construction, founded in 1985 by industry veteran Peter Ellis, is an esteemed independent general contracting firm renowned for its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. With over 40 years of experience, including 15 years as a building inspector, Peter Ellis has built a legacy of high-quality craftsmanship and innovation. The company specializes in both construction and electrical services, focusing on creating eco-friendly, sustainable spaces that enhance the lives of clients while contributing positively to the environment. Holding multiple licenses, including A, B, and C-10, Peter Ellis Construction integrates advanced techniques and high-quality materials into every project, ensuring superior results. The firm’s mission, “We build for you,” underscores its dedication to delivering exceptional quality and personalized service. Peter Ellis Construction prides itself on its meticulous attention to detail, from tackling complex electrical projects to revitalizing commercial spaces and building dream homes. The company’s values of respect, integrity, and lasting relationships set it apart, making it a trusted partner for clients seeking both innovation and reliability in their construction ventures.

The San Francisco Architects team reviewed records from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection to uncover previous projects by Peter Ellis Construction. In 2024, Peter Ellis Construction completed a $450,000 project involving the new construction of a wine room and roof deck. Additionally, in 2023, the company worked on a $65,000 project that converted an existing building of 500 sq. ft. or less into an ADU.


Giovacchini Construction

Address:
1370 Industrial Ave., Suite G, Petaluma, CA 94952

Giovacchini Construction, established in 1999, has built a solid reputation over its 21 years in the industry for delivering high-quality craftsmanship with reliability and cost efficiency. Based in Marin, Napa, and Sonoma Counties, the company excels in a diverse range of projects, including residential, commercial, and healthcare construction. Led by President and CEO Vince Giovacchini, who brings over four decades of experience, Giovacchini Construction is known for its commitment to integrity, quality, and safety. The company’s team, with a combined experience of nearly 100 years, is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and craftsmanship. They emphasize building strong client relationships and maintaining a clean, safe, and drug-free work environment. Giovacchini Construction is fully licensed and insured, offering a broad array of services and leveraging state-of-the-art tools and equipment. Their focus on client satisfaction and their track record of successful, referral-based projects highlight their standing as a trusted and competent general contractor in the region.

The San Francisco Architects team examined data from the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection to track previous projects by Giovacchini Construction. In 2022, Giovacchini Construction completed a $250,000 project for a detached ADU featuring 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and 738 sq. ft. Earlier, in 2019, the company carried out a $68,000 residential addition and alteration project.


Note: The data used to compile this list may not be complete based on the availability of permit data – collecting and consolidating this data is a time-intensive and difficult task. It may not be complete in all areas due to jurisdictional reporting requirements and the availability of data. Job values and permit fees should be taken as estimates rather than exact values, based on the most complete permit and contractor data available. Additionally, number of projects and typical job size may be updated per contractor request.

The time period for the data used for this ranking was the past 365 days, plus an additional 45 days to account for the average timeline of a building permit. If you have any suggestions on the data or see any corrections that you’d like to give feedback on, please fill out this form. For more insights on construction data outside that are not directly related to contractors, there are other resources available as well.

Author

  • Alex Mericle

    Alex Mericle is the Chief Editor at San Francisco Architects with five years of experience in the construction space. Alex has always had a strong interest in residential and commercial construction and architecture, and he has built up technical experience with building permit data, subcontractor operations, and materials procurement over the years. On top of his experience at San Francisco Architects, he has prior experience at BuildZoom. His analytical skillset, honed through a degree in Business Analytics from Creighton University and from his work experience, allows him to transform complex construction data into actionable insights and useful, captivating content. Expertise: Residential and Commercial Construction, Building Permit Data, Home Design and Build, Architecture, Subcontractor Operations, Material Procurement Key Highlights: Over 5 years of experience writing and editing in the construction space, Chief Editor at San Francisco Architects, Previous experience at BuildZoom Education: Creighton University, Degree in Business Analytics

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