Summary
Operating as a general contractor in Virginia Beach requires both state and local compliance. You must first obtain a Virginia Contractor License through DPOR, which involves meeting experience requirements, passing exams, and maintaining continuing education. The license class (A, B, or C) determines the monetary limits for your projects. Additionally, you need a local Virginia Beach business license and must secure appropriate insurance coverage including general liability and workers' compensation. Most construction projects require permits from Virginia Beach Development Services, with fees based on project value and review times ranging from 10-30 business days depending on complexity. The permit process includes plan review, multiple inspections, and final approval before occupancy. Contractors must maintain all licenses and insurance throughout the project duration and ensure compliance with both Virginia state regulations and Virginia Beach municipal codes.
License Requirements
General contractors in Virginia Beach must obtain a Virginia Contractor's License through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Class A contractors (unlimited monetary limit) require 4 years experience and pass both business law and trade exams. Class B contractors (up to $120,000) require 2 years experience and exams. Class C contractors (up to $10,000) require 1 year experience and business law exam only. All licenses require 16 hours of continuing education every 2 years for renewal. Virginia Beach requires a local business license through the Commissioner of the Revenue's office, costing $30-50 annually based on gross receipts.
Permit Requirements
Building permits are required through Virginia Beach Development Services for most construction projects. Permit applications require approved plans, contractor license verification, and fees ranging from $50-500+ based on project scope. Residential permits typically take 10-15 business days for review. Commercial permits may take 20-30 days. Inspections are required at various stages including foundation, framing, electrical/plumbing rough-in, and final. Permit fees are calculated on construction value: $5.50 per $1,000 for first $100,000, then $4.50 per $1,000 thereafter, with minimum fees of $50-100.
Insurance Requirements
Virginia contractors must carry minimum $500,000 general liability insurance with some projects requiring $1 million coverage. Workers' compensation insurance is mandatory for contractors with 3+ employees or subcontractors. Virginia Beach may require additional liability insurance for public works projects. Surety bonds are required for public projects over $100,000. Insurance certificates must name Virginia Beach as additional insured when required. Some residential projects may require contractor to provide proof of insurance to homeowner before work begins.
Typical Cost Ranges
Virginia Beach general contracting projects typically range: Kitchen remodels $25,000-80,000, bathroom renovations $15,000-35,000, room additions $150-300 per square foot, whole house renovations $100-200 per square foot, new home construction $120-250 per square foot, deck construction $25-50 per square foot, basement finishing $30-60 per square foot. Commercial projects vary widely but typically $80-150 per square foot for office build-outs, $100-200 per square foot for retail construction.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain Virginia Contractor License (Class A, B, or C) through DPOR
- ✓Register for Virginia Beach business license with Commissioner of Revenue
- ✓Secure required insurance coverage and obtain certificates
- ✓Apply for specific project permits through Development Services
- ✓Submit approved construction plans with permit applications
- ✓Schedule and pass all required inspections during construction phases
- ✓Maintain current contractor license with continuing education requirements
- ✓Keep insurance certificates current and provide to clients when required