Rigi Construction in Baltimore: Residential Renovation from Design to Permit

Rigi Construction is a licensed general contractor serving Baltimore homeowners on kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, additions, and structural repairs. The firm handles both design consultation and full project management, managing permits, inspections, and subcontractors from start to finish. Owner-operated since 2008, it operates at the mid-market scale: projects typically range from $30,000 single-room updates to $200,000-plus whole-home renovations, making it accessible to homeowners who want professional oversight without the overhead of a large firm.

What Rigi Construction actually does

Rigi takes on interior and exterior renovation work across Baltimore's mix of rowhouses, Victorians, and mid-century homes. Common jobs include kitchen and bath remodels, finished basements, roof repairs, siding replacement, and additions. The firm also handles older-home issues like asbestos abatement consultation, window replacement, and structural assessment. It does not do new construction or commercial work. Projects are managed by a single point of contact who handles scheduling, subcontractor coordination, and punch-list follow-up, reducing miscommunication on jobs that typically span weeks or months.

Services and pricing

Kitchen remodels start around $35,000 for mid-range material and layout changes, rising to $75,000–$120,000 for high-end cabinetry, countertops, and appliances with structural modifications. Bathroom remodels range from $18,000 for a full fixture replacement and tile refresh to $50,000 for luxury finishes and layout changes. Roof repairs are priced by material and square footage; asphalt shingle replacement typically falls between $8,000–$15,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home. Siding replacement costs $12,000–$25,000 depending on material choice and home size. Finished basements with electrical, flooring, and drywall generally start at $25,000.

All projects include a detailed written estimate before work begins. Rigi does not charge separate design fees; design input is included in the estimate process. Permits are pulled by the contractor and rolled into the project cost. Financing options or payment schedules are available; confirm current terms directly.

How Rigi compares to other Baltimore general contractors

Baltimore's general contractor market splits between large firms managing multiple concurrent projects (like Bay Builders or Cornerstone), boutique single-operator shops, and handyman-level services for minor work. Large firms often require 10 percent deposits and have 4–6 week lead times; they suit major additions or whole-home renovations where size and bonding matter most. Single-operator contractors typically offer lower overhead but less capacity if problems arise mid-project. Rigi sits between: small enough to give consistent owner attention, large enough to carry insurance and bonding and manage complex jobs with multiple trades. It suits homeowners who want a known point of contact and accountability without the impersonal feel of a 50-person operation.

For design-forward renovation, Rigi differs from firms like Dome Construction, which often brings its own designer and charges separately for design consultation. For straightforward structural work and permits, it compares favorably to handyman-level services that avoid permit-heavy work altogether.

Who Rigi suits and who it does not

Rigi fits homeowners with mid-sized projects (under $150,000) who want a licensed, insured contractor to manage code compliance and permits. It suits owners of older Baltimore homes who need someone familiar with rowhouse layouts, plaster, and load-bearing wall decisions. It does not suit very small jobs under $5,000 or emergency same-day repairs; it is not a repair service. It also does not suit homeowners seeking a designer-led aesthetic overhaul or those building new construction.

What the first visit involves

Initial consultation is free. The contractor visits, photographs the space, takes measurements, and discusses scope, timeline, and budget range. You provide images or Pinterest pins if you have style direction. Within a week, Rigi sends a formal estimate with line-item breakdowns, material selections, and proposed timeline. Estimates are good for 30 days. Once signed, a project start date is scheduled. The contractor obtains permits and coordinates the first trade (usually demolition or framing). Weekly check-ins and photo updates are standard; you are encouraged to visit the site during non-working hours.

Hours, location, and logistics

Rigi operates Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., with some Saturday availability for material delivery coordination. The office is based in Fells Point but serves all of Baltimore and surrounding counties. Most projects are managed on-site; no customer parking or waiting area is relevant. Lead time for non-emergency projects is typically 4–8 weeks depending on current schedule.

Rigi Construction earned its place in the Baltimore contracting landscape by combining the responsiveness of an owner-operated shop with the competence and accountability of a licensed, insured firm. For a mid-range renovation that demands both quality and clarity, it represents a consistent local choice.