General Contractor in South Lake Tahoe, CA
Built for Tahoe.
Built to Last.
Licensed CA #1075428. Sten Construction provides custom home building, whole-home remodeling, additions, decks, siding and finish carpentry throughout South Lake Tahoe and the Tahoe Basin.
Our work is planned around the realities of mountain construction, including heavy snow loads, freeze-thaw conditions, short build seasons and the local permitting process.
Based in South Lake Tahoe
CA License #1075428
Detailed Project Updates
Licensed & Insured
WHAT WE DO
Our General Contracting Services In South Lake Tahoe
Sten Construction and Remodeling of Lake Tahoe is a licensed general contractor based in South Lake Tahoe, providing residential construction and remodeling throughout the Tahoe Basin.
Our work includes custom homes, whole-house remodels, kitchens, bathrooms, home additions, decks, siding and finish carpentry. Each project is planned around the realities of building at elevation, from heavy snow and freeze-thaw conditions to short construction seasons and local permitting requirements.
Based at 2031 West Way in South Lake Tahoe, we hold California Contractor License #1075428 and work with local trades and project partners throughout the area.
Whether you're remodeling a Tahoe home, planning an addition or starting a ground-up build, our goal is straightforward: understand the project, document the details and build it properly.
As a full-service residential contractor, we’re committed to excellence and attention to detail. Whether remodeling your home or repairing an investment property, Sten Construction is here to support you every step of the way.
Full Home Remodeling
Whole-home remodeling for Tahoe properties, including layout changes, structural work, system upgrades and complete interior renovations.
Kitchen Remodeling
Kitchen remodeling with custom layouts, cabinetry, durable finishes and practical improvements designed around your home.
Bathroom Remodeling
Bathroom remodeling designed around proper waterproofing, ventilation, durable materials and the demands of a mountain climate.
Home Additions
Home additions that create the space you need while working with the structure, materials and character of the existing home.
Deck Building
Custom decks built with Tahoe's snow, freeze-thaw conditions, drainage and intense seasonal exposure in mind.
Custom Home Building
Ground-up
custom homes planned for the site, climate, permitting requirements and way you want to live in Tahoe.
More about Custom Home Building →
Siding Replacement
Siding replacement with proper flashing, moisture management and materials selected for Tahoe's mountain conditions.
ADU Construction
Accessory dwelling units, garage conversions and additional living spaces planned around your property, utilities and local approval requirements.
Custom Finish Carpentry
Built-ins, trim, interior woodwork and
finish carpentry designed to suit the home and stand up to Tahoe's changing conditions.
Local Construction. Clear Communication.
About Sten Construction and Remodeling of Lake Tahoe
Sten Construction is based in South Lake Tahoe and provides residential construction, remodeling and custom building throughout the Tahoe Basin.
Building here brings challenges that don't exist in every market. Snow, freezing temperatures, site access, seasonal schedules and local approvals all affect how a project needs to be planned and built.
That's why we put as much emphasis on project management as we do on the finished work. Homeowners receive clear estimates, documented decisions and regular project updates so they can understand what's happening at every stage.
This is especially valuable for second-home and out-of-area owners who need a contractor they can communicate with even when they aren't in Tahoe.
Custom Homes
Whole-Home Remodeling
Home Additions & ADUs
Finish Carpentry
Project Management
Tahoe Construction Planning
Standards you can verify, not just trust
What Makes Sten Different
Building or remodeling a home is a major investment. You should be able to see where the project stands, what decisions have been made and what you're paying for.
Our process is built around clear documentation and communication from the first estimate through final walk-through.
Built for mountain conditions
We plan materials and construction details around Tahoe conditions, including snow loads, frost, moisture and repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Everything documented
Receive written project updates, progress photos and documented changes so important decisions don't disappear into phone calls or memory.
One point of contact
Your project lead coordinates the schedule and trades and gives you one clear point of contact throughout construction.
Photo records of hidden work
We photograph important work such as framing, insulation, vapor barriers and flashing before walls and finishes conceal it.
Detailed, Transparent Estimates
Our estimates break out labor, materials, permits and allowances so you can understand what is included before construction begins.
If the scope changes, we document the cost and obtain approval before additional work proceeds.
Written warranty
We stand behind our workmanship and clearly document the warranty terms that apply to your project.
Know What You're Approving
Transparent Construction Estimates
A construction estimate should make it easier to understand the project, not leave major costs buried in vague allowances.
Our proposals are built around a clear scope so homeowners can see what has been included before work begins.
What our bids include:
Line-item labor and materials
Permit and inspection costs
Clearly defined allowances
Contingency details where applicable
Payment schedule tied to milestones
Warranty terms and coverage period
Our Simple Process
How We Work
Structure protects everyone — homeowner and builder. Here's what to expect from start to finish.
Initial Consultation
We start by discussing your project, priorities, property and intended scope. This gives us the information needed to identify practical next steps and any early planning considerations.
01
02
Planning & Design Coordination
Once the scope is clear, we coordinate the planning, selections and project details needed before construction. Where architects, designers, engineers or approvals are required, those steps are incorporated into the schedule.
03
Detailed Proposal
You'll receive a documented proposal outlining the project scope, estimated costs, allowances and major milestones before construction begins.
Construction
Our team coordinates the work and trades while keeping you informed through documented progress updates and photographs.
04
05
Final Walk-Through
When construction is complete, we walk through the work with you, review outstanding items and address agreed finishing details.
06
Project Closeout & Support
We provide the relevant project documentation and remain available if a warranty or follow-up item needs attention after completion.
Gallery
Recent Construction & Remodeling Projects in Lake Tahoe
Take a look at recent Sten Construction projects, from whole-home remodeling and interior renovations to structural work and custom residential construction.
Testimonials
What Clients Say About Sten Construction
Carolyn Y.
Homeowner
Nils did a great job repairing late October bear damage under our vacation home! With the first winter storm approaching, Nils quickly removed/ replaced torn up insulation, crushed heating ducts, vents, and siding, plus a broken fence & gate. Nils was super professional coordinating with me (out-of-town owner) and my property manager. I would definitely use him again.
Cassie C.
Homeowner
The home we purchased in Stateline did not have a bathroom fan. Nils came out, estimated the project and then returned after I had received the bathroom light/fan I had ordered. He installed it and properly vented it to the outside. I will definitely use him again for any future needs I have.
Vladimir K.
Client
I’m highly recommending this company. They did a great job on my house. If you are looking for someone who can handle all kinds of remodeling you should hire them.
BuildTec
Client
Nils and his team are amazing craftsmen! They were easy to work with, and charged a reasonable fee for the superb quality of work they performed – is this case a high end deck. Sten Construction is a top 10 builder.
Z.
Client
I had a fantastic experience with this contractor. Work was completed much faster than anticipated without compromising on quality, demonstrating their efficiency and expertise. Their attention to detail and professionalism were exceptional, leaving me thoroughly impressed. Highly recommend for anyone needing reliable and top-notch service
Mark Hanson
Client
Working with Nil’s was a pleasure . He was always punctual and professional and took the time needed to provide a high quality finish to all the work and craftsmanships he performed for my project. I would definitely highly recommend Nil’s Construction for other projects if asked.
Nada K.
Client
Nils from Sten Construction did a great job on my desk. Great attention to detail. conscientious. meticulous. Full disclosure and good communication skills. In addition, my deck looks great. I highly recommend him.
Norill K.
Client
Wonderful customer service. Very pleased with the work. Would contract them again. Thank you Sten Construction.
Nils did a great job repairing late October bear damage under our vacation home!With the first winter storm approaching, Nils quickly removed/ replaced torn up insulation, crushed heating ducts, vents, and siding, plus a broken fence & gate. Nils was super professional coordinating with me (out-of-town owner) and my property manager. I would definitely use him again.
Carolyn Y.
The home we purchased in Stateline did not have a bathroom fan. Nils came out, estimated the project and then returned after I had received the bathroom light/fan I had ordered. He installed it and properly vented it to the outside. I will definitely use him again for any future needs I have.
Cassie C.
I’m highly recommending this company. They did a great job on my house. If you are looking for someone who can handle all kinds of remodeling you should hire them.
Vladimir K.
Nils and his team are amazing craftsmen! They were easy to work with, and charged a reasonable fee for the superb quality of work they performed – is this case a high end deck. Sten Construction is a top 10 builder.
BuildTec
I had a fantastic experience with this contractor. Work was completed much faster than anticipated without compromising on quality, demonstrating their efficiency and expertise. Their attention to detail and professionalism were exceptional, leaving me thoroughly impressed. Highly recommend for anyone needing reliable and top-notch service
Z.
Working with Nil’s was a pleasure . He was always punctual and professional and took the time needed to provide a high quality finish to all the work and craftsmanships he performed for my project. I would definitely highly recommend Nil’s Construction for other projects if asked.
Mark Hanson
Nils from Sten Construction did a great job on my desk. Great attention to detail. conscientious. meticulous. Full disclosure and good communication skills. In addition, my deck looks great. I highly recommend him.
Nada K.
Wonderful customer service. Very pleased with the work. Would contract them again. Thank you Sten Construction.
Norill K.
FAQ
South Lake Tahoe General Contractor FAQs
What does the build season look like in South Lake Tahoe?
Exterior work typically runs from late April through mid-November, depending on snowfall. Interior work can continue year-round. We plan schedules around weather patterns and adjust timelines when conditions change. Pre-ordering materials and locking in subcontractors before spring is critical.
How do you handle budget and change orders?
Every project starts with a detailed, line-item estimate. If something changes — and things do change — we document the change order with exact costs and get your written approval before proceeding. No work happens without your sign-off. We track budget status in your weekly updates.
Do you work with architects and designers?
Yes. We collaborate regularly with local architects, interior designers, and structural engineers. If you already have a design team, we integrate with them. If you need recommendations, we can suggest professionals we've worked with successfully.
Can you work on my home while I'm not in Tahoe?
Absolutely. Many of our clients are part-time Tahoe residents. Our weekly photo updates, shared project folders, and phone access keep you fully informed. We've managed entire projects with homeowners out of state.
What permits are typically required?
Most renovation and new construction projects in the Tahoe Basin require permits from both the local jurisdiction (City of South Lake Tahoe or El Dorado County) and the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA). We handle the permit process and factor approval timelines into the schedule.
How far out are you typically booked?
It varies by season and project size. For spring starts, we recommend reaching out by January. For smaller projects, 4–6 weeks lead time is usually sufficient. Contact us and we'll give you an honest timeline.
Planning a Construction Project in South Lake Tahoe?
Whether you're considering a remodel, home addition, deck or custom home, tell us what you're planning.
We'll review the project details and follow up to discuss the next step.
Sten Construction and Remodeling of Lake Tahoe
CA License : #1075428
We service South Lake Tahoe and the surrounding areas:
Contact Us
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Please try again later.
