The Best Commercial Contractors in Phoenix, Arizona

The stakes are incredibly high when undertaking commercial construction projects in Phoenix, Arizona. Getting a good contractor will ensure that each project receives the best materials and artistry for the cost you pay. In a city where the average commercial project can range from $200,000 to $1,1250,000 and even over $1.95 million, choosing the right commercial general contractor is crucial, depending on factors such as size, design intricacy, and material choices. The success of your project hinges on this decision, as it affects not only the financial outcome but also the quality and timeliness of the build. With projects often spanning up to 18 months and facing the usual construction challenges, selecting a skilled and reliable contractor can mean the difference between a seamless process and a costly, prolonged ordeal.

With a population of approximately 1.64 million and a median home value of $430,000, Phoenix has a vibrant economic landscape, fostering a demand for top-tier commercial construction services. Understanding the local market nuances is essential, especially considering the diverse array of projects that flourish in the area. According to permit data sourced from the Phoenix building department, there are 19 contractors specializing in commercial projects, each vying to deliver excellence in their craft.

Over the past two years, the average cost per square foot for commercial projects in Phoenix has stood at $56.8, reflecting the intricate balance between quality and cost efficiency. In this bustling metropolis, finding the right one among the commercial general contractors Phoenix AZ is not merely about completing a project; it’s about forging a partnership rooted in trust, professionalism, and a shared commitment to turning ambitious visions into tangible realities.

Overview: The Best Commercial Contractors in Phoenix, Arizona

See Ranking Methodology at the bottom of this article to learn more.

Caliente Construction

485 W. Vaughn St., Tempe, AZ 85283

Caliente Construction is a commercial general contractor recognized for safety, exceptional service, and community participation. Based in Tempe, AZ, the company delivers projects throughout the Western United States. It offers general contracting solutions through job order contracts, service agreements, and construction management-at-risk (CMAR) services. As one of the leading commercial general contractors in Phoenix AZ, Caliente Construction is also accredited by the Better Business Bureau.

Over 90% of their work comes from repeat business, building lasting relationships with clients and companies. The secret to their success is the exceptional quality of their projects and their cost-conscious approach to construction.

One of their notable projects includes the tenant improvements for Barnone in Gilbert, AZ. The company helped convert a 1950s building into a multi-use facility for this project. The team made structural repairs and added two metal buildings to create eight modern tenant spaces to house locally-owned restaurants and shops. Projects such as these earned the company accreditations. It was named the #1 General Contractor (51-100 staff) by Ranking Arizona for three consecutive years (2017-2019) and the  #1 Tenant Improvement Contractor for two consecutive years (2017-2018). This woman-owned business enterprise has also been certified through the Women Business Enterprise National Council and California Public Utilities Clearinghouse.

MT Builders Companies

8434 North 90th St. Suite 150, Scottsdale, AZ 85258

Based in Scottsdale, AZ, MT Builders Companies offers top-notch general contracting and construction management services for retail, senior living, and industrial projects. Since its founding, the firm has completed over $800 million in construction work. During pre-construction, they provide input on value engineering options and building systems that work well within the client’s budget. They have been working with the same subcontracts for 20 years, meeting with them weekly to ensure the timeline is followed. The firm’s project managers also take a hands-on approach to construction activities for budget monitoring and strict quality control.

One of their notable projects, Pebblecreek Reserve, is a senior living facility with 224 elegantly appointed units and upscale recreational facilities. Projects like these consistently earn MT Builders accreditations, such as the ACE Awards. The firm also made ENR’s Top General Contractors List from 2001 to 2015. Founders and CEOs Michael Tarver and Philip Bell still run the company today.

LGE Design Build

740 N 52nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85008

LGE is a premier construction firm with over 27 years of experience and more than 1,200 projects completed. Its work is synonymous with integrity and quality craftsmanship. The firm has an in-house architecture and interior design firm. It also specializes in entitlements and development partnerships for a comprehensive experience in one place. From conceptualization to project delivery, LGE Design Build works closely with clients to maintain excellent coordination.

One of their most notable industrial projects, The HUB, is a 793,000-square-foot shell with a streamlined aesthetic consistent with its tenant’s brand personality. Projects like these have won the company several industry awards, including the 2019 AZRE Red Awards Best Healthcare Project and the 2014 LEED Certified Project of the Year for Garmin International by NAIOP. It was also nominated for the NAIOP 2018 Tenant Improvement Contractor of the Year Award. The firm has also been featured in the Phoenix Business Journal, Arizona Republic, and AZ Big Media. 

Balfour Beatty

8777 E. Hartford Dr. Ste. 140, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Balfour Beatty is in the business of delivering dreams. As the leading design-build and construction management firm in the Phoenix area, it focuses on the built environment to improve the communities it serves. Aside from general contracting, the firm specializes in leasebacks, public-private partnerships (P3), and rail inspection and maintenance. The company is headed by Balfour Beatty and California Division President Brian Cahill, CCM, LEED AP, who oversees operations in Arizona. The San Diego Daily Transcript named Cahill as a Top Influential. He is also the author of Humanizing the Education Machine. 

Under their leadership, the firm portfolio has grown to include some of the most distinctive commercial developments in the hospitality and industrial sectors. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Ballroom Expansion Project is a fine example of their work. The firm added over 60,000 square feet of space with tech bi-folding glass doors, breakout meeting rooms, and a bridge to connect the conference center to the expansion. The project is valued at between $10 to $15 million.

A subsidiary of London-based Balfour Beatty PLC, the company is the recipient of the 2017 AGC in the Community Award and 2017  W.I.N.T.E.R. Company of the Year. It has also been featured in Construction Equipment Guide, LA Business Journal, and Roads & Bridges Magazine.

W.E. O’Neil

4511 E. Kerby Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85040

Communication is the cornerstone of any successful project. W.E. O’Neil takes a proactive approach to communication and project management, working closely with clients to ensure a successful build. As a result, nearly 80% of their business comes from repeat clients, making professional relationships tremendously valuable to the company. As an employee and family-owned firm, it has delivered multiple projects exceeding 1,000,000 square feet. Its expertise in special projects and green and sustainable building makes it a nationally ranked contractor. Phoenix and Tucson President Bryan Dunn heads the firm, holding a degree in Construction Management from Colorado State University. He has over 20 years of experience in similar leadership roles.

W.E. O’Neil provides construction management and design-build services to clients in the pharmaceuticals, higher education, and energy sectors. Notable projects include the Tesla Sales and Service Center in Colorado. The company provided the shell and core construction for the 2.3-acre site. The work involved site development, paving, and landscaping. The firm’s team includes over 80 LEED-accredited professionals who have worked on over four million square feet of LEED projects. This enables the company to build environmentally conscious facilities with sustainable design. It follows LEED’s best practices to minimize waste, reduce operating costs, and conserve natural resources with each project.

PWI Construction

5725 North Scottsdale Rd. Suite C-135, Scottsdale, AZ 85250

For this general contractor, construction is a customer service business. It takes a client-focused approach to commercial construction, fostering a collaborative environment where clients can openly discuss their ideas. No matter the project requirements, the company will bring your blueprint to life while maintaining high standards. Founded by president Jeff Price, the company has delivered more than 1,800 projects across 23 states. To preserve the quality of the firm’s work, the company also invests in ongoing employee training and education.

Among their notable projects is the Viceroy Santa Monica Public Space Renovation, which involved a complete overhaul of the resort’s common areas for a modern poolside experience. The team renovated the lobby, restaurant, and outdoor patio extensively. The work included the installation of specialty bomanite flooring and new wooden beams. With projects like these, PWI has received the 2021 Marketing Communications (MarCom) Gold and Vegas Chamber Business Excellence awards. The company is also a member of the Retail Contractors Association and the National Association of Women in Construction. Their projects have been featured in Conde Nast Traveler and the Andaz Scottsdale/Phoenix Business Journal.

Willmeng Construction

2048 N. 44th St. Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85008

Willmeng Construction was built on relationships. As one of the most trusted contractors in the Phoenix Metro Area, the firm believes in altruistic service and hiring skilled tradespersons and project managers of great character. The company specializes in ground-up construction, tenant improvements, and build-to-suit services. It also assists clients with prelease transactions and remodels. With over 43 years in business, the firm is behind some of the most distinctive commercial developments. Its projects include the Arizona Spine and Joint Hospital, a 4,600-square-foot healthcare facility that required specialty equipment installation. CEO and Principal James Murphy was included in the Phoenix Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, recognizing his altruistic quality as a true leader. He supports charitable organizations such as Andre House and the Arizona Humane Society.

Willmeng Construction has won the National Association for Industrial and Office Parks (NAIOP) General Contractor of the Year and the NAIOP Redevelopment Project of the Year in 2017.  The company has been featured in the Phoenix Business Journal and Arizona Business Magazine.

Layton Construction Company, LLC

2355 E. Camelback Rd. Suite 800, Phoenix, AZ 85016

Since then, it has grown to 11 offices, operating in over 40 states. It received the ENR Southwest “Best of” Awards and AZRE Real Estate & Development (RED) Awards in 2019. As a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified contractor and one of the top construction companies in Phoenix AZ it specializes in energy-efficient features like low-use lights, solar panels, and more. It makes sustainability a goal in every project, finding ways to incorporate green building techniques wherever possible.

An experienced commercial general contractor and construction management firm, this firm prioritizes the well-being of tenants and employees. From sourcing and life cycle cost analysis to reporting and measurement, the firm offers a wide range of services to ensure the timely completion of each project. The firm is behind some of the most high-profile healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing developments. The firm’s wide-ranging portfolio includes full-service hospitals, mega distribution hubs, and Class A offices with award-winning designs. These projects include the Central Admixture Pharmacy facility and Element Hotel, both located in Arizona. Both are fine examples of the firm’s skill and thoroughness.

DPR Construction

222 North 44th St., Phoenix, AZ 85008

DPR Construction takes a results-driven approach to commercial construction and renovations. Because of the high quality of their work, the firm has consistently ranked among the top 50 general contractors in the United States over the past decade. Doug Woods, Peter Nosler, and Ron Davidowski founded the company in 1990. Under their leadership, the company has ranked #10 in the Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 400 Contractors List for 2021. The firm was also named one of the 100 Best Places to Live and Work in 2021 by AZBigMedia. One of the renowned construction companies in Phoenix AZ it was also recognized as One of America’s Best Employers by Forbes.

DPR Construction, Inc., an industry leader in green building, had more LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) than any other contractor in the U.S. in 2004. Their roster includes 128 LEED-APs and over 300 professionals with significant training in sustainable construction. The firm has also been an active U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) member since 1999.

One of their most notable projects, the new Main building at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, is one of five new hospitals to receive a LEED Platinum certification from the USGBC. The project includes an enclosure to help reduce solar heat gain and facilitate low-energy systems.

Sletten Companies

2501 East University, Phoenix, AZ 85034

As a full-service regional contractor, Sletten Companies has the labor force and financial strength of a larger construction company without sacrificing personalized service. As a result, 85% of their business comes from repeat customers. Sletten Companies develops strategic partnerships with permitting offices, subcontractors, and suppliers. Since its founding, the company has completed over $1 billion in Construction Management-At-Risk (CMAR) and alternate delivery projects. It also specializes in green building, virtual construction, and MEP coordination. Licensed in 16 states, the company operates out of eight office locations in the Western United States. It has been 100% employee-owned since 2004, with about 215 employee-owners in their ranks.

Their most notable projects include the SSP Commissary at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and various Walmart expansions and remodels. The team has also delivered projects for clients in the healthcare, higher education, and energy sectors. Its vast range of successful projects has earned the company the 2019 National Design-Build Institute of America’s (DBIA) Design-Build Project Team Award and landed a coveted spot in the Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 100 Green Contractors List in 2009. The company has also been featured in AZ Big Media.

The Weitz Company

2111 E. Highland Ave. Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85016

The Weitz Company has been in business for over a century. Their philosophy is the secret to their longevity: “Build a better way.” This guiding principle has spurred the company to refine its construction techniques and processes. President and CEO Kevin McClain has prior experience as a project engineer,  field superintendent, and project manager. Under his leadership, the company has been a NAIOP and LEED-certified firm and a member of the Arizona Builders Alliance and Greater Phoenix Economic Council. It works with charity organizations like Bridge House. 

As an industry-leading general contractor, design-builder, and construction management firm, it serves all 50 states out of nine permanent offices across the U.S. It provides access to a nationwide staff with unparalleled construction expertise on commercial, industrial, and supply chain projects. This allows them to deliver distinctive and high-quality projects as scheduled. Their complex projects range from airport terminals and distribution hubs to convention centers and recreational facilities.

One of their most notable projects includes the Sky Crossing Recreation Center in Phoenix, a 14,000-square-foot clubhouse with a fitness room, conference room, and several swimming pools. Using various management tools and weekly plans, the team delivered the project on time.

Ranking Methodology

To evaluate the performance of contractors, our methodology employs a systematic approach that considers various factors contributing to customer experience and satisfaction. We focused on assessing the commercial contractors in the Phoenix, Arizona area. The methodology involves assigning weightings to specific categories based on their significance in determining customer service quality. Here’s the breakdown of the categories and their respective weightings:

• Average Customer Satisfaction (35%): This metric represents the average rating given by customers across the same review platforms as the Average Customer Satisfaction Score. A higher average rating indicates greater overall satisfaction with the service provided.
• Service Rating Score (25%): We analyze the ratio of high (4-5 stars) to low (1-2 stars) ratings for each business across multiple review platforms: Google, Houzz, and Yelp. A higher percentage of positive reviews contributes to a higher score, reflecting better customer satisfaction.
• Complaint Percentage (25%): We analyze the ratio of complaints to total reviews for each business. A lower complaints ratio indicates better service quality and results in a higher score.
• Business Hours and Availability (10%): The operating hours of each business are assessed to gauge accessibility. Companies with extended operating hours are awarded a higher score, as they offer greater convenience to customers.
• License Status (5%): We verify the licensing status of each contractor with their local licensing board to ensure legal compliance. Companies with valid licenses receive a higher score, reflecting professionalism and adherence to regulations.
• Total Score: We determined the overall rating for every contractor by calculating a weighted average, with the category weight determining the amount the subscore contributed to the total score 

Additional Note: Service Rating Score, Average Customer Satisfaction, and Complaint Percentage are calculated with a Bayesian estimate to account for if the contractor has a low number of total reviews. A Bayesian average is a statistical method used to calculate the average of a set of data points while taking into account prior information or beliefs about the distribution of the data. It combines the observed data with a prior distribution to generate a more accurate estimate of the true average.