Tennessee Construction Pros
Construction & Remodeling in Memphis, TN
Memphis has an older housing stock, with most homes built before 1980 and many from the 1950s through the 1970s, plus homes in 19 local historic districts. Permits run through Memphis and Shelby County Construction Enforcement, Shelby County requires a home improvement license for mid-size remodels, and the city faces earthquake risk from the New Madrid seismic zone.
Services
Services in Memphis
Start with the services that have Memphis-specific planning notes, or browse everything offered across Tennessee.
Kitchen Remodeling in Memphis
Many Memphis kitchens are in homes built from the 1950s through the 1970s, so remodels often uncover dated wiring, plumbing and painted finishes.
Bathroom Remodeling in Memphis
Bathroom projects in Memphis range from updating original baths in older houses to reworking units in duplexes and apartment buildings.
More services across Tennessee
Homes & buildings
What shapes a project in Memphis
Local conditions worth knowing before scope and budget are set.
Mostly pre-1980 homes
Census estimates for 2024 show about 64% of Memphis homes were built before 1980, and about 49% were built between 1950 and 1979. Only about 6% were built in 2010 or later. Expect wiring, plumbing and insulation updates in many projects, and lead-safe practices in homes built before 1978.
Local historic districts
Memphis has 19 local historic districts, each with its own design guidelines. The Memphis Landmarks Commission reviews work visible from the street, including new construction, demolition and exterior alterations. A Certificate of Appropriateness can be needed for changes as small as replacing a front door or painting brick.
Earthquake exposure
The U.S. Geological Survey notes that many structures in Memphis are vulnerable to severe ground shaking from the New Madrid seismic zone. Additions, new homes and structural changes should be designed with seismic loads in mind.
Sources (6)
- U.S. Geological Survey · checked 2026-09-24
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · checked 2026-09-24
- U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2024 1-year (table B25034, via Census Reporter) · checked 2026-09-24
- Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development · checked 2026-09-24
- Memphis Landmarks Commission · checked 2026-09-24
- Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development · checked 2026-09-24
Permits & service area
Before a project starts in Memphis
Local permit office
Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development, Construction Enforcement
Which permits a project needs depends on its scope. We identify them during planning; the official site has current requirements, forms and fees.
Visit the permit office site (official site, opens in a new tab)Service area
Memphis, Shelby County
Service in Memphis and nearby Shelby County communities has not been confirmed yet. Send us the project address and we will confirm whether we can take the work before scheduling.
Nearby Tennessee cities
All Tennessee service areasPlanning a project in Memphis?
Tell us what you have in mind and where the property is. We'll follow up to talk through scope, permits and next steps.
