South Carolina Contractors: Top 5 Most Trusted in 2024
Introduction
When looking for the best South Carolina contractors, it helps to know where to start. Here’s a quick list of top contractors if you’re in a hurry:
- Harper General Contractors – Trusted for 73 years.
- Mashburn Construction – Specializes in commercial and industrial projects.
- Hood Construction – Known for diverse and sustainable projects.
- M. B. Kahn Construction – Experts in large-scale and educational builds.
- Trehel Corporation – Offers design-build services for residential and commercial projects.
The construction industry in South Carolina is vibrant and growing. Whether you’re planning a small home renovation or a large commercial project, finding the right contractor is crucial. With proper licensing and expertise, these contractors ensure that every project meets high standards of safety and quality.
Hi, I’m Haiko de Poel Jr., with experience in marketing and digital transformation within the construction and surety bonds sector. At Palmetto Surety Corporation, we understand the importance of choosing a reliable contractor for your projects. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through some of the best contractors in South Carolina.

1. Harper General Contractors
Harper General Contractors stands out as a pillar of trust and community in the South Carolina construction industry. With 73 years of experience, they have built a reputation for reliability and excellence.
Trust and Community
Harper’s commitment to trust and community is evident in their long-standing relationships with clients across the Carolinas. Their president, David Wise, emphasizes integrity and responsibility as core values. This dedication to ethical practices ensures that clients feel secure and valued throughout the project lifecycle.
“Treating others the way I want to be treated is a simple principle or value that guides me in my interactions with all people – internal and external,” says David Wise. This philosophy fosters strong, collaborative relationships with clients and partners alike.
73 Years of Experience
Founded in 1950, Harper has grown into a respected name in the construction sector. Their extensive experience allows them to handle a wide range of projects, from schools and healthcare centers to government buildings and community centers. Their portfolio showcases numerous LEED and Green Globe-certified projects, underlining their commitment to sustainable building practices.
300 Employees
Harper’s team consists of 300 dedicated employees. This robust workforce enables them to manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Their team’s expertise spans various disciplines, ensuring comprehensive solutions for complex construction challenges.
Harper’s focus on sustainability and community-centric projects has earned them numerous accolades and repeat business from satisfied clients. Their ability to balance technical proficiency with ethical practices makes them a top choice among South Carolina contractors.
2. Mashburn Construction
Columbia
Located in Columbia, Mashburn Construction is a prominent name in the South Carolina construction industry. Known for their commitment to excellence, they have been serving the community with top-notch construction services for several decades.
Commercial Projects
Mashburn Construction specializes in commercial projects. They have a proven track record of delivering high-quality office buildings, retail spaces, and hospitality venues. One notable project is the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, a state-of-the-art facility that has become a hub for events and conferences in the region.
Industrial Projects
In addition to commercial work, Mashburn excels in industrial projects. They have constructed numerous manufacturing plants, warehouses, and distribution centers. Their expertise ensures these facilities meet the stringent requirements for safety and efficiency. For example, their work on the Boeing South Carolina manufacturing site showcases their ability to handle large-scale, complex industrial projects.
Diverse Portfolio
Mashburn’s diverse portfolio highlights their versatility and ability to adapt to different project needs. From healthcare facilities to educational institutions, their comprehensive approach ensures that every project is executed with precision and attention to detail.
Sustainable Practices
Mashburn is also committed to sustainable building practices. They incorporate green building techniques and materials to minimize environmental impact. Their projects often aim for LEED certification, reflecting their dedication to sustainability.
Community Impact
Mashburn Construction is deeply rooted in the Columbia community. They actively participate in local events and support various charitable organizations, reinforcing their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the construction site.
Mashburn Construction’s blend of experience, versatility, and community involvement makes them a standout choice for anyone seeking reliable and skilled South Carolina contractors.
3. Hood Construction
Hood Construction is a prominent name among South Carolina contractors, especially in Columbia. With a diverse portfolio and a strong commitment to sustainable building practices, they stand out in the construction industry.
Diverse Portfolio
Hood Construction has a rich and varied portfolio. They handle a wide range of projects, from healthcare facilities to educational institutions and commercial buildings. Their ability to adapt to different project requirements and deliver high-quality results has earned them a solid reputation.
Example Projects:
– Healthcare: Hood Construction has worked on numerous healthcare projects, ensuring that facilities meet stringent standards and provide safe environments for patients and staff.
– Education: They have contributed to the development of several educational institutions, creating spaces that enhance learning and community engagement.
Sustainable Building Practices
Sustainability is a core value at Hood Construction. They incorporate eco-friendly materials and green building techniques into their projects. By aiming for LEED certification, they demonstrate a commitment to minimizing environmental impact and promoting energy efficiency.
Sustainable Features:
– Energy Efficiency: Hood Construction uses advanced systems to reduce energy consumption in buildings.
– Material Selection: They prioritize the use of sustainable and recycled materials to lessen environmental impact.
– Water Conservation: Implementing water-saving technologies is a standard practice in their projects.
Community Engagement
Hood Construction is deeply integrated into the Columbia community. They support local initiatives and participate in community events, showing that their commitment goes beyond construction. By fostering strong relationships with clients and community members, they ensure that their projects benefit everyone involved.
Hood Construction’s dedication to diversity in their projects and sustainable practices makes them a top choice for those seeking experienced and eco-conscious South Carolina contractors.
4. M. B. Kahn Construction
M. B. Kahn Construction is a cornerstone of the Columbia construction scene, renowned for its large-scale projects and expertise in educational facilities.
Large-Scale Projects
Founded in 1927, M. B. Kahn has a long history of managing substantial projects across South Carolina. They specialize in large-scale endeavors that require meticulous planning and execution. From industrial complexes to healthcare facilities, their portfolio showcases a wide range of impressive structures.
Educational Facilities
One of M. B. Kahn’s standout specialties is educational facilities. They have constructed numerous schools, universities, and academic buildings throughout the state. Their work includes everything from elementary schools to advanced research facilities. This focus on education underscores their commitment to building environments that foster learning and growth.
Community Impact
M. B. Kahn is not just about building structures; they are about building communities. They actively engage with local organizations and support various community initiatives. Their projects often include elements that benefit the broader community, such as public spaces and recreational areas.
Sustainability Efforts
Sustainability is a key component of M. B. Kahn’s approach. They integrate green building practices and technologies to minimize environmental impact. This includes energy-efficient designs, waste reduction strategies, and the use of sustainable materials.
M. B. Kahn Construction’s expertise in handling large-scale projects and their dedication to educational facilities make them a leading choice among South Carolina contractors.
5. Trehel Corporation
Located in Greenville, Trehel Corporation stands out for its comprehensive design-build services. This approach means they handle both the design and construction phases, ensuring a seamless experience for clients. This method reduces costs and speeds up project completion, making it highly efficient.
Residential and Commercial Expertise
Trehel Corporation excels in both residential and commercial projects. Whether it’s building a custom home or developing a commercial complex, they bring the same level of dedication and expertise. Their portfolio includes everything from upscale residences to intricate commercial spaces, showcasing their versatility.
Design-Build Services
Trehel’s design-build model is a game-changer. By integrating design and construction, they streamline communication and coordination. This approach minimizes errors, reduces costs, and accelerates timelines. Clients appreciate the single point of responsibility, which simplifies the entire process.
Notable Projects
Trehel has a range of impressive projects under its belt. From luxurious homes in Greenville to commercial buildings that serve various industries, their work speaks volumes about their capabilities. Their projects often feature innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship, earning them a solid reputation.
Community Engagement
Trehel Corporation is also known for its community involvement. They participate in local initiatives and support various causes, contributing to the wellbeing of the Greenville area. This commitment to community service enhances their standing as a trusted local contractor.
Trehel Corporation’s blend of design-build services and expertise in both residential and commercial projects makes them a top contender among South Carolina contractors.
Frequently Asked Questions about South Carolina Contractors
Do Contractors Have to Be Licensed in South Carolina?
Yes, most contractors need to be licensed to work in South Carolina. The state requires licenses for general contractors, residential home builders, and residential specialty contractors.
General contractors must have a license for commercial and industrial projects valued over $5,000. This license also allows them to work on residential jobs.
Residential home builders and residential specialty contractors must also be licensed to perform their specific types of work. The South Carolina Contractor License Board (SCCLB) oversees these licenses, ensuring contractors meet strict standards, including passing exams and proving work experience.
What States Have Reciprocity with South Carolina Contractors’ License?
South Carolina has reciprocity agreements with several states, making it easier for licensed contractors to work across state lines. These states include:
- Alabama
- Georgia
- North Carolina
Reciprocity means that if you hold a valid contractor’s license in one of these states, you may be able to obtain a South Carolina license without taking additional exams. However, you still need to meet South Carolina’s application and fee requirements.
How to Find Out if a Contractor is Licensed in South Carolina?
To verify if a contractor is licensed in South Carolina, you can use the online tools provided by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCLLR).
- Visit the SCLLR Licensee Lookup page.
- Enter the contractor’s name or license number.
- Review the results to ensure the contractor is licensed and in good standing.
This verification helps you ensure that the contractor you hire is qualified and meets state standards.
Conclusion
When it comes to securing the right contractor for your project in South Carolina, knowing they are properly licensed and bonded is crucial. This is where Palmetto Surety Corporation steps in.
Palmetto Surety Corporation offers a wide range of surety bonds tailored to meet the unique needs of contractors in South Carolina. Whether you’re a general contractor, residential home builder, or a residential specialty contractor, we provide the surety bonds necessary to comply with state regulations and protect your financial interests.
Quick Approval Process
One of the standout features of Palmetto Surety Corporation is our quick approval process. We understand that time is of the essence in the construction industry. Our streamlined process ensures that you can get your surety bonds approved and issued swiftly, allowing you to focus on your projects without unnecessary delays.
Why Choose Palmetto Surety Corporation?
- Exemplary Customer Support: Our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist you with any questions or concerns.
- Advanced Technology: We use cutting-edge technology to simplify the process of obtaining surety bonds, making it easy for you to purchase, print, and manage your bonds.
- Expertise: With over twenty years of experience in the surety bond industry, we bring a wealth of knowledge and a vast network of insurance agents to help you navigate your bonding needs.
For all your surety bond requirements in South Carolina, trust Palmetto Surety Corporation to provide reliable, quick, and efficient service.
Ready to get started? Reach out to us at Palmetto Surety Corporation or call (866) 372-0827 for a free quote today.

