Last Updated on October 6, 2025 by Admin
Finding the right construction companies Dallas can transform your project from concept to completion—whether you’re building a $200M downtown tower, custom Highland Park home, or industrial warehouse. The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex leads the nation with 262,600 construction jobs and billions in active development. This comprehensive 2025 guide profiles 25 top construction firms serving DFW, from national powerhouses like Turner Construction to specialized local builders. We’ve analyzed ENR rankings, permit data, and verified credentials to help owners, developers, and job seekers navigate Dallas’s booming construction market with confidence.
TL;DR: Quick Takeaways
- 25 verified construction companies across Dallas-Fort Worth covering commercial, residential, industrial, and infrastructure sectors
- Turner Construction and Balfour Beatty lead in scale and permit activity, while Dallas-based Beck Group brings 113+ years of local expertise
- DFW construction employment reached 262,600 jobs in July 2025, up 5,300 jobs year-over-year with robust hiring across all specializations
- Average construction manager salary in Texas: $136,252 annually, with project managers earning $120K-$180K for complex commercial projects
- Verify contractors through TDLR license search, insurance certificates, and City of Dallas building permits
Table of Contents
Dallas Construction Market: Your Complete 2025 Guide
Finding the right construction companies Dallas can make or break your project, whether you’re developing a $200 million mixed-use tower in downtown Dallas, building a custom home in Highland Park, or constructing an industrial warehouse in Fort Worth. The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex ranks among America’s fastest-growing construction markets, with 262,600 construction jobs as of July 2025 and billions in active development across commercial, residential, industrial, and infrastructure sectors.
This comprehensive guide profiles 25 top construction companies in Dallas, TX, from billion-dollar national powerhouses like Turner Construction to specialized local firms with deep DFW roots. We’ve analyzed ENR Texas & Louisiana rankings, Dallas Business Journal data, permit activity, project portfolios, and industry credentials to deliver actionable insights for owners, developers, facilities leaders, and job seekers.
Scope of this guide: We cover the broader Dallas-Fort Worth metro including Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Frisco, Irving, and surrounding cities. Our list spans commercial construction companies Dallas specializing in office towers and mixed-use developments, residential construction firms building custom homes and production subdivisions, industrial contractors managing warehouses and manufacturing facilities, and infrastructure specialists delivering highways, transit, and utilities.
How we chose these companies: Selection criteria emphasized proven Dallas-Fort Worth portfolios, industry recognition through awards and rankings, financial stability and bonding capacity, safety records, and diverse representation across project types and company sizes. See our complete methodology below.
Top 25 Construction Companies Dallas: Complete Profiles
Tier 1: National Powerhouses Operating in DFW
1. Turner Construction Company
ENR #1 nationally with 235+ Dallas employees and landmark DFW projects
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX (8080 Park Lane, Suite 400)
- Services: General Contractor, Construction Manager, Design-Build for commercial, healthcare, education, aviation, sports, and mission-critical facilities
- Notable DFW Projects: KPMG Plaza at Hall Arts ($200M+, 2021), Park District development, DFW Airport Terminal renovations, multiple data centers
- Credentials: #1 ENR Top 400 Contractors nationally, Top 10 green builder, extensive LEED project portfolio, strong safety culture with EMR consistently below 1.0
- Website: Turner Construction
Why they’re on this list: Turner’s unmatched scale, national resources, and proven track record on Dallas’s most complex projects make them the go-to choice for high-rise commercial, healthcare, and mission-critical facilities requiring top-tier expertise and bonding capacity exceeding $10 billion.
2. McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.
100% employee-owned with 25+ years in Richardson serving healthcare, education, and commercial markets
- HQ/Local Office: Richardson, TX (3400 N. Central Expressway, Suite 500)
- Services: General Contractor, Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), Design-Build, Integrated Project Delivery specializing in healthcare, higher education, K-12, and commercial
- Notable DFW Projects: UT Southwestern Medical Center expansions, Dallas College campuses, Presbyterian Hospital developments, numerous corporate offices
- Credentials: ENR Top 10 nationally, Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For 17 consecutive years, 100% employee-owned ESOP structure, industry-leading safety performance
- Website: McCarthy Building Companies
Why they’re on this list: McCarthy’s employee ownership model aligns incentives with quality outcomes, while their healthcare and education specialization makes them ideal for complex institutional projects requiring clinical coordination and occupied facility experience.
3. Balfour Beatty Construction
#1 in Dallas permit activity with 66 permits valued at $168M in recent rankings
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX (3100 McKinnon St., 7th Floor)
- Services: General Contractor, Construction Management, Design-Build, Public-Private Partnerships (P3) for commercial, multifamily, aviation, healthcare, and infrastructure
- Notable DFW Projects: The Union Dallas (60-story mixed-use), DFW Airport Terminal D gates, multiple multifamily high-rises, healthcare facilities
- Credentials: ENR Top 20 nationally, leading Dallas permit volume demonstrates market dominance, P3 expertise for complex financing, global resources from UK parent company
- Website: Balfour Beatty US
Why they’re on this list: Balfour Beatty’s #1 Dallas permit ranking reflects sustained market leadership, while their P3 capabilities and multifamily expertise position them uniquely for mixed-use developments and alternative delivery projects.
4. The Beck Group
Dallas-based since 1912, family-owned integrated design-build firm with 113+ years of local expertise
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX (1601 Elm St., Suite 2800)
- Services: Integrated Design-Build (architecture + construction under one roof), General Contracting, CMAR, specializing in corporate, healthcare, education, hospitality, sports, and mixed-use
- Notable DFW Projects: Toyota headquarters in Plano, AT&T Stadium renovations, The Star in Frisco, Dallas Cowboys facilities, American Airlines Center improvements, corporate campuses
- Credentials: Over a century of Dallas presence, family-owned providing continuity, integrated design-build eliminates coordination gaps, ENR Top 50, extensive sustainability expertise
- Website: The Beck Group
Why they’re on this list: Beck’s integrated design-build model streamlines delivery, while 113 years of Dallas-Fort Worth experience provides unmatched understanding of local conditions, permitting, and market dynamics that out-of-state firms cannot replicate.
5. DPR Construction
Mission-critical and data center specialist with advanced technology integration and self-perform capabilities
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX office serving Southwest region
- Services: General Contractor, Design-Build, CMAR, self-performing concrete and interiors, specializing in data centers, healthcare, life sciences, higher education, and commercial
- Notable DFW Projects: Multiple hyperscale data centers (confidential clients), corporate headquarters, university research facilities, medical centers
- Credentials: ENR Top 50, employee-owned, industry leader in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and construction technology, data center expertise drives premium projects
- Website: DPR Construction
Why they’re on this list: DPR’s data center specialization positions them perfectly for DFW’s booming tech infrastructure needs, while self-perform capabilities and BIM expertise deliver superior quality control on complex, fast-tracked projects.
6. Brasfield & Gorrie
Healthcare and education specialist with extensive Texas portfolio and self-perform capabilities
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas office serving North Texas (Birmingham, AL headquarters)
- Services: General Contractor, Construction Manager, Design-Build, self-performing concrete, specializing in healthcare, higher education, K-12, commercial, and mission-critical
- Notable DFW Projects: Medical City Dallas expansions, Baylor Scott & White facilities, university buildings, corporate offices, data centers
- Credentials: ENR Top 30, family-owned since 1964, self-perform concrete for schedule/quality control, strong healthcare credentials including complex renovation and expansion work
- Website: Brasfield & Gorrie
Why they’re on this list: Brasfield & Gorrie’s healthcare specialization and self-perform concrete capabilities make them ideal for medical facilities requiring infection control, phased construction in occupied spaces, and accelerated schedules.
7. Austin Commercial
Texas-based since 1918 with deep DFW roots in commercial, industrial, and healthcare construction
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX (1700 Pacific Ave., Suite 1600)
- Services: General Contractor, CMAR, Design-Build, preconstruction services, specializing in commercial offices, healthcare, industrial, manufacturing, and aviation
- Notable DFW Projects: Commercial office towers, industrial facilities, healthcare expansions, distribution centers, corporate headquarters
- Credentials: 107+ years in Texas, ENR Texas & Louisiana Top Contractors, strong industrial and manufacturing expertise, relationships with major DFW corporations
- Website: Austin Commercial
Why they’re on this list: Over a century of Texas experience provides Austin Commercial with deep market knowledge, established subcontractor relationships, and proven ability to navigate DFW’s unique permitting and regulatory environment.
8. Kiewit Corporation
Infrastructure megaproject specialist delivering highways, transit, and utilities across North Texas
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas office (Omaha, NE headquarters)
- Services: Heavy civil construction, design-build, construction management for transportation, water/wastewater, power, and industrial infrastructure
- Notable DFW Projects: DFW Connector ($1.5B highway project), Dallas Horseshoe Project (I-30/I-35E interchange), TxDOT Dallas District highway work, major water infrastructure
- Credentials: ENR Top 10 nationally, Fortune 500 company, employee-owned, bonding capacity for billion-dollar projects, extensive heavy civil self-perform capabilities
- Website: Kiewit Corporation
Why they’re on this list: Kiewit’s infrastructure expertise and massive bonding capacity make them the only choice for DFW’s largest highway, transit, and utility megaprojects requiring specialized heavy civil capabilities and complex phasing.
9. Moss Construction
Multifamily and mixed-use specialist with extensive DFW high-rise residential portfolio
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas office serving Texas markets
- Services: General Contractor, Construction Management for multifamily, mixed-use, hospitality, student housing, and senior living
- Notable DFW Projects: Uptown Dallas high-rise apartments, mixed-use developments, student housing near universities, luxury multifamily communities
- Credentials: National multifamily specialist, extensive high-rise experience, relationships with major apartment developers, proven track record on occupied site construction
- Website: Moss Construction
Why they’re on this list: Moss’s multifamily specialization and high-rise residential expertise position them perfectly for DFW’s booming apartment market, particularly urban infill and mixed-use developments requiring sophisticated coordination.
10. Skiles Group
Dallas-based healthcare construction specialist serving medical facilities across Texas
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX
- Services: General Contractor, CMAR, Design-Build specializing exclusively in healthcare: hospitals, medical office buildings, surgery centers, imaging centers, cancer centers
- Notable DFW Projects: Medical City Dallas projects, Baylor Scott & White facilities, Texas Health Resources buildings, numerous MOB and outpatient centers
- Credentials: Healthcare-exclusive focus provides deep clinical expertise, infection control specialists, experience with complex MEP systems, occupied facility renovation mastery
- Website: Skiles Group
Why they’re on this list: Skiles Group’s exclusive healthcare focus delivers unmatched expertise in clinical coordination, infection control protocols, and the complex regulatory requirements unique to medical construction.
Tier 2: Regional Specialists with Strong DFW Presence
11. MYCON General Contractors
Dallas-based serving education, municipal, and commercial sectors with proven K-12 expertise
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX
- Services: General Contractor, CMAR for K-12 schools, municipal buildings, commercial offices, and industrial facilities
- Notable DFW Projects: Multiple Dallas ISD schools, municipal facilities, commercial buildings, warehouse projects
- Credentials: Established Dallas presence, K-12 specialization includes occupied school experience, strong municipal relationships
- Website: MYCON General Contractors
Why they’re on this list: MYCON’s K-12 and municipal expertise makes them ideal for public sector projects requiring competitive bidding, prevailing wage compliance, and occupied facility construction minimizing disruption to students.
12. Joeris General Contractors
Texas-based with Fort Worth office specializing in education, healthcare, and commercial construction
- HQ/Local Office: Fort Worth office (San Antonio headquarters)
- Services: General Contractor, CMAR, Design-Build for K-12, higher education, healthcare, commercial, and industrial
- Notable DFW Projects: Fort Worth ISD schools, university buildings, healthcare facilities, commercial offices
- Credentials: Texas-based providing regional expertise, strong education portfolio, CMAR expertise for public projects
- Website: Joeris General Contractors
Why they’re on this list: Joeris combines Texas market knowledge with education specialization, making them well-suited for school districts and universities requiring experience with Texas Education Code compliance and state funding mechanisms.
13. Cadence McShane Construction
Dallas-based multifamily specialist delivering apartment communities across the metroplex
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX
- Services: General Contractor specializing in multifamily garden-style and mid-rise apartments, student housing, senior living
- Notable DFW Projects: Numerous apartment communities in Dallas suburbs, Frisco, Plano, McKinney, student housing developments
- Credentials: Multifamily-focused expertise, relationships with major apartment developers, efficient delivery on 200-400 unit communities
- Website: Cadence McShane Construction
Why they’re on this list: Cadence McShane’s multifamily specialization and proven track record on garden-style apartments positions them perfectly for DFW’s suburban apartment boom driven by population growth and corporate relocations.
14. KWA Construction
#12 Dallas Business Journal Fast 50 with 59.7% three-year revenue growth, multifamily specialist
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX
- Services: General Contractor for multifamily, mixed-use, student housing, and commercial
- Notable DFW Projects: Multiple Class A multifamily high-rises, mixed-use developments, student housing near universities
- Credentials: Dallas Business Journal Fast 50 #12 ranking demonstrates rapid growth, multifamily expertise, strong developer relationships
- Website: KWA Construction
Why they’re on this list: KWA’s explosive growth trajectory and multifamily specialization reflect strong execution and market positioning, making them a rising force in DFW’s competitive apartment construction market.
15. Alston Construction
Commercial general contractor serving corporate, retail, and industrial sectors across DFW
- HQ/Local Office: Irving, TX
- Services: General Contractor, Design-Build for commercial offices, retail, industrial, and tenant improvements
- Notable DFW Projects: Corporate offices, retail centers, warehouse facilities, tenant improvement projects
- Credentials: Established DFW presence, diverse commercial portfolio, tenant improvement expertise
- Website: Alston Construction
Why they’re on this list: Alston’s broad commercial capabilities and tenant improvement expertise serve the needs of mid-market projects requiring responsive service and proven delivery without the premium pricing of national firms.
16. Crossland Construction
Retail and commercial specialist with Kansas City roots and growing Dallas presence
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas office (Kansas City headquarters)
- Services: General Contractor, Design-Build specializing in retail, restaurant, commercial, and healthcare
- Notable DFW Projects: Retail centers, restaurant prototypes, commercial buildings, medical offices
- Credentials: Retail construction expertise, national reach with local execution, proven track record on prototype builds
- Website: Crossland Construction
Why they’re on this list: Crossland’s retail and restaurant specialization serves chains and franchises requiring consistent execution across multiple DFW locations with tight schedules and standardized specifications.
17. Hill & Wilkinson
General contractor serving commercial, education, and municipal sectors across North Texas
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas area
- Services: General Contractor, CMAR for commercial, education, municipal, and industrial projects
- Notable DFW Projects: Commercial buildings, school facilities, municipal projects, industrial warehouses
- Credentials: Established North Texas presence, diverse market sector experience, competitive pricing
- Website: Hill & Wilkinson
Why they’re on this list: Hill & Wilkinson’s broad capabilities across commercial, education, and municipal sectors provide versatility for owners with diverse portfolios requiring a single trusted partner.
18. Structure Tone Southwest
Corporate interiors and tenant improvement specialist serving Class A office market
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas office (New York headquarters)
- Services: General Contractor specializing in corporate interiors, tenant improvements, office renovations, and occupied space construction
- Notable DFW Projects: Corporate headquarters fit-outs, Class A office tenant improvements, financial services offices, law firm build-outs
- Credentials: Global interiors expertise, occupied space construction minimizing business disruption, fast-track project delivery
- Website: Structure Tone
Why they’re on this list: Structure Tone’s corporate interiors specialization and occupied space expertise make them ideal for Class A office tenant improvements requiring minimal disruption to surrounding tenants and accelerated schedules.
19. Parkway Construction & Architecture
Integrated design-build firm serving commercial, healthcare, and education markets
- HQ/Local Office: Fort Worth, TX
- Services: Integrated Design-Build, General Contractor, architecture services for commercial, healthcare, education, and municipal
- Notable DFW Projects: Medical office buildings, commercial offices, educational facilities, municipal buildings
- Credentials: Design-build integration, Fort Worth-based providing local expertise, diverse market sector experience
- Website: Parkway Construction
Why they’re on this list: Parkway’s integrated design-build model streamlines coordination while Fort Worth roots provide deep understanding of Tarrant County permitting, relationships, and market conditions.
20. Peinado Construction
Commercial and industrial contractor with established Dallas presence
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas, TX
- Services: General Contractor for commercial, industrial, retail, and tenant improvements
- Notable DFW Projects: Industrial warehouses, commercial buildings, retail facilities, office renovations
- Credentials: Dallas-based, industrial construction expertise, competitive pricing on mid-market projects
- Website: Peinado Construction
Why they’re on this list: Peinado’s industrial expertise and competitive pricing serve the needs of warehouse, distribution, and light manufacturing projects in DFW’s growing logistics sector.
Tier 3: Boutique Firms & Emerging Players
21. ANDRES Construction Services
Specialty contractor serving commercial and industrial sectors
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas area
- Services: General Contractor, specialty construction for commercial and industrial projects
- Notable DFW Projects: Commercial facilities, industrial projects, renovation work
- Credentials: Specialty construction expertise, competitive pricing, responsive service
- Website: ANDRES Construction
Why they’re on this list: ANDRES provides specialized capabilities for unique project requirements where boutique expertise and responsive service outweigh the need for massive scale.
22. ELITE Construction
Fast-growing multifamily specialist serving Dallas apartment market
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas area
- Services: General Contractor specializing in multifamily construction
- Notable DFW Projects: Garden-style apartment communities, multifamily renovations
- Credentials: Multifamily focus, competitive pricing, efficient delivery on 100-300 unit communities
- Website: Contact through industry directories
Why they’re on this list: ELITE’s multifamily specialization and competitive positioning serve developers seeking value-oriented delivery on suburban garden-style apartment communities.
23. Specialty Contractors Inc.
Niche construction services for specialized project requirements
- HQ/Local Office: Dallas-Fort Worth area
- Services: Specialty contracting, renovation, and tenant improvement work
- Notable DFW Projects: Specialized commercial projects, renovation work, unique construction requirements
- Credentials: Specialty expertise, flexible approach, competitive pricing
- Website: Contact through industry referrals
Why they’re on this list: Specialty contractors fill important niches for unique project requirements where standard general contractors lack specific expertise or capabilities.
24. RJM Contractors
Fort Worth-based commercial and industrial contractor with Tarrant County expertise
- HQ/Local Office: Fort Worth, TX
- Services: General Contractor for commercial, industrial, and municipal projects
- Notable DFW Projects: Fort Worth commercial buildings, industrial facilities, municipal work
- Credentials: Fort Worth roots provide Tarrant County relationships and permitting expertise
- Website: RJM Contractors
Why they’re on this list: RJM’s Fort Worth focus and local relationships provide advantages on Tarrant County projects where established community ties and permitting knowledge accelerate approvals.
25. PRIM Construction
Fort Worth general contractor serving commercial and institutional markets
- HQ/Local Office: Fort Worth, TX
- Services: General Contractor for commercial, institutional, and industrial projects
- Notable DFW Projects: Commercial buildings, institutional facilities, industrial warehouses
- Credentials: Fort Worth-based, diverse market sector experience, competitive pricing
- Website: PRIM Construction
Why they’re on this list: PRIM’s Fort Worth presence and broad commercial capabilities serve owners seeking local expertise and responsive service on mid-market projects throughout Tarrant County.
Best-Fit Comparison: Choosing the Right Dallas Construction Company
Use this quick-reference table to identify the construction companies in Dallas best suited for your specific project type. Match your project needs to the company specialties to create an initial shortlist for further evaluation.
Company | Best For | Services | Local Office | Signature DFW Project |
---|---|---|---|---|
Turner Construction | High-rise commercial, data centers, and airports | GC, CM, Design-Build | Dallas | KPMG Plaza at Hall Arts |
McCarthy Building | Healthcare, higher education, K-12 | GC, CMAR, Design-Build, IPD | Richardson | UT Southwestern expansions |
Balfour Beatty | Mixed-use, multifamily, aviation, P3 | GC, CM, Design-Build, P3 | Dallas | The Union Dallas (60 stories) |
The Beck Group | Corporate HQ, sports, integrated design-build | Integrated Design-Build, GC, CMAR | Dallas | Toyota HQ Plano, The Star Frisco |
DPR Construction | Data centers, mission-critical, life sciences | GC, Design-Build, self-perform | Dallas | Hyperscale data centers |
Brasfield & Gorrie | Healthcare, education, data centers | GC, CM, Design-Build, self-perform | Dallas | Medical City Dallas projects |
Kiewit Corporation | Infrastructure, highways, heavy civil | Heavy civil, design-build | Dallas | DFW Connector ($1.5B) |
Skiles Group | Healthcare-exclusive specialist | GC, CMAR, Design-Build healthcare | Dallas | Medical City Dallas, BSW facilities |
Moss Construction | Multifamily high-rise, mixed-use | GC, CM for residential | Dallas | Uptown Dallas luxury apartments |
KWA Construction | Multifamily, student housing, mixed-use | GC for multifamily | Dallas | Class A multifamily developments |
Cadence McShane | Garden-style apartments, student housing | GC multifamily specialist | Dallas | Suburban apartment communities |
Structure Tone | Corporate interiors, tenant improvements | GC for interiors, occupied spaces | Dallas | Class A office fit-outs |
How to Vet a Contractor in Dallas, TX: 8-Step Due Diligence Process
Selecting the right construction companies in Dallas, TX requires thorough vetting beyond impressive portfolios and polished presentations. Follow this systematic approach to verify capabilities, protect your interests, and ensure successful project delivery.
1. Verify Licensing Through TDLR
Texas does not require general contractors to hold state licenses, but specialty trade contractors must be licensed. Use the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR) contractor lookup to verify licenses for electricians (all require licenses regardless of project size), HVAC contractors, plumbers, and elevator installers working on your project.
Check active license status, expiration dates, and any disciplinary actions or complaint history. Red flags include expired licenses, recent disciplinary actions, patterns of unresolved complaints, or contractors claiming specialty work without proper licensing. Verify your general contractor employs or subcontracts only licensed specialty trades as required by Texas law.
2. Review Safety Records and OSHA Compliance
Construction safety directly impacts project costs, schedules, and liability exposure. Review contractor safety performance through the OSHA Establishment Search for inspection history, citations, and violations. Request the contractor’s Experience Modification Rate (EMR)—rates below 1.0 indicate better-than-average safety performance, while rates above 1.0 suggest higher incident rates and increased insurance costs.
Ask for safety programs, training procedures, and recent safety statistics (Total Recordable Incident Rate, Days Away/Restricted/Transfer Rate). Top contractors maintain comprehensive safety cultures with regular training, dedicated safety personnel, and proactive hazard identification. The OSHA Dallas Area Office provides guidance on construction safety standards and can answer questions about contractor obligations.
3. Validate Permits and Project History
Verify the contractor’s Dallas project history through City of Dallas Development Services building permit records. Search by contractor name to review permit activity, project types, and compliance history. High permit volume in your project category demonstrates relevant experience and established relationships with Dallas building officials.
Look for successful final inspections, Certificate of Occupancy issuances, and absence of stop-work orders or repeated code violations. Contractors with clean permitting records navigate Dallas’s requirements efficiently, while those with compliance issues may cause delays and added costs. For projects in Fort Worth, Plano, Frisco, or other DFW cities, check those municipalities’ permit records as well.
4. Assess Large Project Capacity Through ENR Rankings
For projects exceeding $30 million, verify contractor capacity through ENR Texas & Louisiana Top Contractors rankings. ENR surveys track revenue, project volume, and market sectors, providing objective measures of contractor size and capabilities.
Match contractor scale to project complexity—a $200 million mixed-use tower requires different capabilities than a $5 million warehouse. Top-tier contractors bring extensive bonding capacity ($500M-$10B+), dedicated project management teams, established subcontractor relationships, and resources to handle unexpected challenges without jeopardizing your project.
5. Demand and Verify Insurance Certificates
Never accept insurance certificates solely from contractors—request Certificates of Insurance directly from the contractor’s insurance carrier to prevent forgery. Required coverage includes:
- General Liability Insurance: Minimum $2 million aggregate for commercial projects, covering bodily injury and property damage
- Workers’ Compensation: Covering all employees as required by Texas law, protecting you from liability for on-site injuries
- Auto Liability: Covering vehicle accidents involving contractor vehicles and equipment
- Builder’s Risk Insurance: Protecting the project during construction from fire, theft, vandalism, and weather damage
Verify your project is listed as “additional insured” on the liability policy, providing direct coverage if claims arise. Confirm coverage amounts match your contract requirements and that policies remain active throughout construction. Inadequate insurance exposes you to catastrophic liability if incidents occur.
6. Obtain Performance and Payment Bonds
For projects over $500,000, require performance and payment bonds from surety companies rated A- or better by A.M. Best. Performance bonds guarantee project completion if the contractor defaults, while payment bonds protect against mechanics liens by ensuring subcontractors and suppliers are paid.
Bonding capacity indicates financial strength—surety companies conduct rigorous financial due diligence before issuing bonds, essentially providing third-party validation of contractor stability. Contractors unable to obtain bonds may lack the financial resources to complete your project. Bonding costs typically range 1-3% of contract value, a small investment for significant risk mitigation.
7. Get Three Comparable Bids with Detailed Scopes
Solicit proposals from at least three qualified contractors using identical project scopes, specifications, and schedules. Detailed bid packages enable apples-to-apples comparisons, while vague RFPs yield inconsistent proposals difficult to evaluate.
Beware of bids significantly lower than others—they often indicate scope gaps, unrealistic assumptions, or desperate contractors willing to lowball to secure work. During economic downturns, contractors may bid aggressively then pursue aggressive change orders to recover margins. Verify each bidder’s understanding of project requirements through pre-bid meetings and Q&A processes.
Evaluate bids on total value, not just price. Consider contractor experience on similar projects, proposed schedule and phasing, subcontractor qualifications, project team experience, safety performance, and financial stability. The lowest bid rarely delivers the best outcome on complex projects.
8. Check References and Visit Current Jobsites
Demand references from projects similar in type, size, and complexity completed within the past three years. Contact owners directly (not just project managers) to ask about:
- Budget performance: Did the project finish within the GMP or contract amount?
- Schedule adherence: Was the project completed on time? If not, why?
- Quality of work: Did finishes and systems meet expectations? Were defects promptly corrected?
- Communication: Did the team respond to concerns? Were issues escalated appropriately?
- Post-completion: How has warranty service been? Are they responsive to callbacks?
- Would you hire them again? This often reveals more than any other question.
Visit active jobsites unannounced to observe safety practices, housekeeping, worker professionalism, and material storage. Well-organized sites with clear safety signage, proper PPE usage, and clean work areas indicate strong project management and culture. Chaotic sites suggest potential problems ahead.
Commercial vs Residential Construction in DFW: Key Differences
Understanding distinctions between commercial construction companies Dallas and residential construction companies Dallas helps match your project to contractors with appropriate expertise. The skill sets, processes, and regulatory requirements differ substantially between these sectors.
Project Scale and Complexity
Commercial construction in Dallas encompasses office towers, retail centers, healthcare facilities, industrial warehouses, data centers, and mixed-use developments ranging from $5 million to over $500 million. These projects involve complex mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, structural engineering for multi-story buildings, sophisticated life safety systems, and coordination of dozens of specialty trades. Understanding different types of contractors in construction helps clarify which specialists your commercial project requires.
Residential construction companies Dallas focus on single-family homes, townhomes, custom estates, and small multifamily projects typically ranging $200,000 to $5 million for custom homes, with production homes in the $300,000-$600,000 range across DFW suburbs. Residential projects involve simpler systems designed for family living rather than commercial operations, fewer specialized trades, and more straightforward structural requirements under the International Residential Code (IRC).
Delivery Methods and Project Management
Commercial projects typically employ sophisticated delivery methods including Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), Design-Build, or traditional Design-Bid-Build, each offering different risk allocation and schedule approaches. Commercial general contractors manage large teams including dedicated project managers, superintendents, safety managers, estimators, and administrative staff. They coordinate 15-30+ subcontractors through complex schedules using Critical Path Method (CPM) scheduling, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and formal change management processes. Learn more about EPC contractors who provide integrated engineering, procurement, and construction services for large commercial and industrial projects.
Residential builders generally use simpler contracts and processes. Production homebuilders follow standardized construction sequences across subdivisions with small teams managing multiple homes simultaneously. Custom home builders work more closely with homeowners on design selections, finishes, and personalization while managing routine subcontractor coordination. Production homebuilders optimize efficiency through volume purchasing, standardized construction processes, and sequential home starts across subdivisions. Custom homes typically require 8-12 months depending on size, finishes, and change orders during construction.
Regulatory Requirements and Code Compliance
Commercial construction in Dallas follows International Building Code (IBC) with Texas amendments, requiring engineered structural systems, fire suppression systems, accessibility compliance under ADA, energy code compliance under IECC with Texas supplements, and extensive inspections at each phase (foundation, framing, MEP rough-in, final). Commercial projects require licensed engineers to stamp structural, MEP, and civil drawings, with city reviews examining life safety, accessibility, fire protection, and structural adequacy.
Residential construction follows International Residential Code (IRC), a simplified code for one- and two-family dwellings. While still requiring building permits through the City of Dallas DallasNow system, residential inspections focus on basic safety (foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, final) without the extensive documentation commercial projects demand. Single-family homes under certain square footage may not require architect or engineer involvement, though custom homes typically engage these professionals.
Cost Structures and Pricing
Commercial construction in Dallas averages $300+ per square foot for Class A office construction, though this varies dramatically by type: industrial warehouses may cost $80-120/SF, retail centers $150-250/SF, healthcare facilities $400-600/SF due to complex systems. Commercial projects price through detailed cost estimating with line-item budgets, allowances for owner selections, and contingencies. Payment structures typically follow monthly draw schedules based on percentage completion with retainage (5-10%) held until project completion.
Residential construction costs in DFW range from $120-180/SF for production homes to $200-400+/SF for custom luxury homes depending on finishes, lot characteristics, and design complexity. Builders typically provide fixed-price contracts or cost-plus arrangements. Production builders achieve lower per-square-foot costs through volume purchasing, standardized designs, and efficient construction processes. Custom home pricing includes higher design costs, premium materials, and personalized finishes driving costs above production home baselines.
Choosing Between Commercial and Residential Contractors
Commercial contractors bring specialized expertise in complex systems, larger project management teams, stronger safety programs, and sophisticated scheduling for the demanding requirements of office buildings, retail centers, healthcare facilities, and industrial projects. Residential contractors understand homeowner psychology, finish quality expectations, and the personal nature of home construction, excelling at communication and customer service that commercial firms may deprioritize.
The skill sets rarely transfer directly—hiring a residential contractor for commercial work or vice versa typically yields poor results. Match contractor expertise to your specific project type for optimal outcomes. For commercial projects, prioritize contractors with proven portfolios in your specific building type (office, retail, healthcare, industrial), verified through ENR rankings and permit records. For residential projects, seek builders with relevant experience (production homes vs. custom estates) and strong references from past homeowners.
Hiring & Careers in Dallas Construction: 2025 Market Analysis
Dallas-Fort Worth’s construction boom creates exceptional opportunities for professionals at all experience levels, from entry-level laborers to seasoned project managers. Understanding the market dynamics, compensation levels, and career pathways helps job seekers position themselves for success in this competitive but rewarding industry.
Market Dynamics and Job Growth
The DFW construction market added 14,800 jobs in 2024, leading the nation in construction employment growth. With over 15,000 active construction job postings as of October 2025, demand significantly outpaces supply across most specializations. The region’s population growth (over 1,000 people moving to DFW daily), corporate relocations (280+ companies established headquarters since 2010), and infrastructure needs sustain robust hiring despite economic uncertainties.
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data for the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, mining, logging, and construction employment reached 262,600 jobs in July 2025, representing year-over-year growth of 5,300 jobs (+2.1%). This growth trajectory outpaces most other sectors, with construction unemployment rates remaining below national averages (4.2% DFW versus 4.5% nationally).
Most In-Demand Positions and Compensation
Project Managers lead commercial and industrial projects, particularly for data centers, mixed-use developments, and high-rise construction. Employers seek candidates with 5+ years of experience managing $30M+ projects with strong MEP coordination skills. Average compensation in Dallas reaches $139,249 annually ($67/hour), with ranges from $119,580 (10th percentile) to $159,841 (90th percentile) according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Construction Managers oversee day-to-day operations across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, coordinating subcontractors and ensuring schedule compliance. Texas construction manager salaries average $136,252, as detailed in comprehensive construction manager salary guides, with Dallas representing a “value market” where cost-of-living-adjusted purchasing power exceeds many coastal cities.
Estimators with 5+ years of commercial construction experience earn $85,000-$170,000+ depending on expertise and project complexity. Knowledge of DFW construction market conditions, subcontractor relationships, and vertical construction pricing provides competitive advantages.
Superintendents manage site operations, coordinate trades, ensure safety compliance, and maintain schedules. Mission-critical and commercial construction superintendents command premium compensation given the technical demands and 24/7 responsibility.
Skilled Trades face persistent shortages driving wage premiums. Construction workers and laborers average $24.89/hour ($51,770 annually), with experienced workers (5-8 years) earning approximately $45,203, according to construction worker pay data. Licensed electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, welders, and pipe-fitters command significantly higher compensation—often $60,000-$90,000+ annually—due to critical shortages and licensing requirements.
Skills Shortages and High-Demand Areas
DFW’s construction market faces critical gaps in several key areas. Licensed electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians remain in the shortest supply, with aging workforce demographics and insufficient training pipeline capacity creating sustained demand. Building Information Modeling (BIM) specialists combining technical trade knowledge with digital tool proficiency fill a crucial niche as construction technology adoption accelerates.
Experienced project managers capable of handling complex commercial builds ($50M+), construction estimators with vertical construction expertise, and skilled welders/pipe-fitters for industrial projects all face minimal competition for positions. The shortage stems from rapid market growth outpacing workforce development, insufficient training programs, and competition from other growing metros.
Career Pathways and Advancement
Construction offers clear advancement trajectories rewarding performance and skills development. Entry-level laborers and apprentices advance through structured training programs, earning certifications and licenses over 3-5 years to reach journeyman then master tradesperson status. Field workers demonstrating leadership transition to foreman, superintendent, and eventually project manager roles over 5-10 years.
Estimating and project management tracks allow entry-level assistant PMs or junior estimators to advance to senior positions managing larger, more complex projects over 3-7 years with proven performance. Specialization in high-demand areas like green building, mission-critical facilities, or advanced trades commands premium compensation and accelerates advancement. Explore highest paying construction jobs to understand compensation at various career stages.
Training and Certification Programs
Dallas College, the second-largest community college in the country with 100,000+ students across seven campuses, offers Construction Technology programs with both residential and commercial specializations. Workforce training certifications, employer-sponsored tuition programs, and partnerships with construction firms through the Handshake platform facilitate direct hiring pipelines.
ABC Central Texas (Associated Builders and Contractors) provides NCCER-accredited training programs, including government-registered apprenticeships, Craft Training Program (CTP), Electrician Certification Trainee Program (ECTP), and management training. Programs award globally recognized credentials certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas manages Dallas County workforce systems with WIOA funding, providing job search assistance, skills training for high-demand occupations, Adult Education and Literacy programs including GED preparation, and financial aid for eligible job seekers pursuing construction careers.
United Way Dallas “Pathways to Work” initiative equips displaced and under-employed workers through partnerships with training organizations, covering construction trades including electrician, plumber, pipe-fitter, and welder with career coaching and supportive services.
Job Search Resources
Job seekers researching Construction Companies in Dallas, TX hiring can access specialized recruiters focused on the DFW market through construction staffing agencies. With 246,000+ construction job openings nationally and 92% of firms reporting hiring difficulties, qualified candidates with relevant certifications enjoy strong negotiating positions.
Preparing for construction job interviews through comprehensive practice with common technical, safety, and behavioral questions improves success rates. Understanding career progression through construction project management career paths helps candidates plan long-term advancement strategies.
The Dallas market’s combination of strong job growth, competitive wages, and lower cost of living compared to coastal markets makes it exceptionally attractive for construction professionals at all career stages. Continuous learning, safety certifications, and networking through professional associations like TEXO The Construction Association (AGC DFW chapter) accelerate career advancement.
Fort Worth Construction Market: What Makes It Different
While often grouped together as “DFW,” Dallas and Fort Worth construction markets operate with distinct identities, priorities, and opportunities. Understanding these differences helps owners choose construction companies Fort Worth with appropriate local expertise versus Dallas-focused firms.
Market Focus: Civic Pride vs. Commercial Growth
Fort Worth emphasizes civic and institutional projects reflecting its cultural identity. The $606 million Fort Worth Convention Center expansion, Texas A&M-Fort Worth campus ($260M Research and Innovation building), and National Juneteenth Museum (opening June 2025) represent Fort Worth’s commitment to cultural and educational infrastructure rather than purely commercial development. Fort Worth’s construction activity balances growth with historic preservation, particularly in the Stockyards and cultural district.
Dallas pursues aggressive commercial development with corporate headquarters towers, luxury mixed-use, and technology infrastructure dominating recent construction. The Dallas skyline transformation reflects this growth-first mentality, while Fort Worth maintains more measured development respecting established character.
Market Stability and Development Patterns
Fort Worth maintained more stable multifamily permitting while Dallas saw 54% permit decreases 2021-2024, suggesting Fort Worth’s measured development approach may position it better as Dallas absorbs oversupply. Fort Worth’s market exhibits less volatility with steady, sustainable growth rather than boom-bust cycles.
Population growth remains strong in both cities—Fort Worth added 21,365 residents 2022-2023 (second-largest U.S. increase), while Dallas continues robust expansion. Construction employment added 2,500 jobs in Fort Worth versus 12,300 in Dallas (2023), reflecting Dallas’s larger market size but also Fort Worth’s solid growth trajectory.
Fort Worth-Based Contractors: Local Expertise Matters
Fort Worth construction companies like RJM Contractors, Clear Fork Construction, PRIM Construction, and Fort Construction bring deep community ties, institutional relationships, and understanding of Tarrant County/Fort Worth permitting that Dallas firms may lack. When Fort Worth projects require city council approvals, community engagement, or navigation of Fort Worth’s historic preservation guidelines, local contractors’ relationships accelerate processes.
Fort Worth contractors understand Tarrant County’s distinct permitting procedures, building official preferences, and inspection processes that differ from Dallas County. This knowledge prevents delays and rework that out-of-area contractors experience navigating unfamiliar requirements.
When to Choose Fort Worth vs. Dallas Contractors
Choose Fort Worth-based contractors for:
- Public sector projects in Tarrant County where local relationships matter
- Educational facilities in Fort Worth/Arlington ISDs or local universities
- Historic preservation in Fort Worth’s established neighborhoods
- Projects requiring Tarrant County approvals where local knowledge accelerates processes
- Community-sensitive developments where Fort Worth ties build public support
Choose Dallas contractors for:
- Corporate headquarters and Class A office towers where Dallas firms have deeper experience
- Large-scale mixed-use developments exceeding typical Fort Worth project scale
- Technology-driven projects in Dallas tech corridors (Frisco, Richardson, Plano)
- Projects requiring Dallas County approvals and Dallas building department expertise
Most top-tier contractors (Turner, McCarthy, Balfour Beatty, Beck Group) operate seamlessly across both cities with market knowledge in Dallas and Tarrant counties. Their scale and resources overcome local knowledge gaps through dedicated regional teams. Mid-market contractors, however, often specialize in either Dallas or Fort Worth, making local presence more critical.
Permitting and Regulatory Differences
Fort Worth and Dallas maintain separate building departments with different procedures, fee structures, and timeline expectations. Fort Worth’s permitting process emphasizes community input and historic preservation reviews for projects in designated districts. Dallas recently streamlined commercial permitting, reducing average wait times from 300+ days to approximately 122 days, while Fort Worth maintains steady, predictable timelines.
Projects in Arlington, Grand Prairie, or other mid-cities navigate both Dallas and Fort Worth influences while maintaining their own municipal requirements. Understanding these jurisdictional complexities requires local expertise that construction companies in DFW with multi-office operations can provide.
Choosing the Right Construction Partner in Dallas-Fort Worth
Selecting among the top construction companies Dallas offers requires thorough research, careful vetting, and clear understanding of your project’s unique requirements. Whether you need Turner Construction’s billion-dollar bonding capacity for a high-rise tower, The Beck Group’s integrated design-build expertise for corporate headquarters, or a specialized multifamily builder like KWA Construction for apartment developments, this guide provides the foundation for confident decision-making.
Key takeaways for success:
- Verify credentials thoroughly using TDLR license searches, City of Dallas building permits, and insurance certificates
- Match contractor expertise to your specific project type—commercial, residential, industrial, or infrastructure
- Understand delivery methods (Design-Build, CMAR, Design-Bid-Build) and choose what aligns with your priorities
- Plan adequate contingencies (5-10%) for Dallas-specific challenges, including weather, permitting, and market conditions
- Consider local expertise when choosing between Dallas and Fort Worth contractors
The Dallas-Fort Worth construction market’s explosive growth—adding 14,800 jobs in 2024 and sustaining over 15,000 active job postings—creates opportunities for both project owners and construction professionals. With proper due diligence, clear contracts, and the right construction partner, your project can join Dallas’s impressive skyline transformation.
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