What Does a General Contractor Do?
General contractors oversee all aspects of a construction project from start to finish, including hiring and training Subcontractors, applying for building permits and providing hands-on supervision and guidance to workers on the site. They are responsible for keeping a construction project on schedule, so that clients can expect it to be completed according to their budget and timeline.
Having the right skills for this job is essential. Strong organizational and managerial skills are vital, as are extensive knowledge and experience working in the construction industry. A background as a carpenter or skilled tradesperson will help a general contractor develop these essential traits.
The most important skill a general contractor needs is the ability to manage multiple projects at once. They may work alone on small residential or commercial projects, but for larger scale projects they need to be able to communicate effectively with their subcontractors and vendors to ensure that materials are on hand when needed at the different stages of construction.
They also need to be able to keep their staff and their subcontractors on the correct timeline, so they can meet expectations with clients, which helps to keep costs down. They also need to be able to make adjustments when delays are encountered, so they can ensure that their project is still on track for completion at the expected timeframe.
When hiring a general contractor, it is important to prequalify them for your project and check their references. You should also look for a general contractor who is licensed and bonded, as these will protect you from liability.
A general contractor is a valuable asset to have on your team, especially when you are dealing with multiple tradespeople and complicated projects. This is because a general contractor is familiar with local code regulations and the permitting process, so they can manage this for you, making sure your renovations stay within the rules.
GCs also have expertise with home plans developed by architects and engineers, so they can help steer construction projects to meet the client’s goals while staying on schedule and on budget. They can also advise on energy-efficient, green and passive solar builds, so they have the knowledge to tackle any unique challenges that arise during a build.
Their fee can vary significantly, depending on their services and experience level, but they typically receive a percentage of the overall project cost. This is often negotiated with the client prior to starting the construction.
They are typically required to be licensed and bonded in their state, as well as carry insurance to cover the project. They should be able to provide evidence of these requirements and should always be willing to explain them to their clients.
A good general contractor should be able to handle all aspects of your construction or renovation project, so you can focus on your other duties and priorities. The best ones will be able to update you on progress, and they can help you plan for any issues that may arise.