When you hire a general contractor, you’re hiring someone to take care of all the aspects of your construction project. In addition to providing you with expert advice, a good general contractor will make sure the construction process is completed according to rules and regulations.
General contractors work with subcontractors and other contractors to bring your vision to life. A good contractor will have the experience and credentials needed to complete a project on time and in accordance with state and federal standards. Some states require general contractors to have specific licenses. Depending on the type of project you have, your contractor may need to obtain insurance or bonding.
Depending on the size of the project, you may need to hire more than one contractor. Often, you will need skilled laborers for your construction job. Whether you are renovating a bathroom, building a garage or adding a swimming pool, you will want to find a reputable general contractor.
Whether you’re working on a new home or a large commercial renovation, a contractor can save you a lot of time and energy. Working with a professional allows you to focus on the other tasks of your project, such as meeting the needs of your client. Many contractors are experienced in different areas, so they can do a lot of the same jobs.
A general contractor will coordinate the work of all subcontractors, making sure they are all up to code and working in the right order. The general contractor also will provide you with feedback and suggestions for improvement. Typically, general contractors perform all the duties of a manager. They will analyze the scope of work, obtaining the necessary permits, and scheduling the project. This is typically performed under a Stipulated Sum or Lump Sum contract.
Typical GC duties include coordinating all supplies, equipment and materials for the project. They will work with the property owner to develop a timeline, analyze the project drawings, and collect quotes from qualified subcontractors. Ultimately, the contractor will manage the project, ensuring everything proceeds according to the agreed-upon schedule.
Although a general contractor can be responsible for performing some of the work himself, he will need to rely on subcontractors to complete the more complicated parts of the construction project. Subcontracting is a way to cut down on the amount of work your general contractor has to do, which can help you avoid paying more than you need to.
A good general contractor will also be able to solve problems if they arise. Delays in the key elements of your project, such as weather, can cause financial repercussions. If your project is being paid through a contingent or cash-in-hand payment plan, you need to be aware of these delays. Streamlining paperwork and increasing the visibility of your subcontractors can often resolve these issues.
Your general contractor can also advise you on the proper ways to hire subcontractors. For example, you might want to hire a plumber to install a kitchen sink, but you should hire an electrician to install a roof. Likewise, you might prefer to hire a carpenter to build a deck.