What Does a General Contractor Do?
What Does a General Contractor Do?
If you’re building a new home or doing renovations, a general contractor is essential to ensure that the project stays on schedule and is completed on budget. They are responsible for the day-to-day oversight of a construction site and management of vendors and tradespeople.
The right general contractor will be experienced, trustworthy and have the proper licenses and permits to perform the job. They will also be licensed and insured.
Planning
A general contractor oversees the big-picture planning and top-level facets of larger home projects. He or she will schedule the project’s various stages in advance and make sure that all necessary materials arrive at the construction site when needed. They will also manage the subcontractors and act as a supervisor to ensure that workers are performing their jobs correctly and according to any building codes and safety standards.
In many cases, GCs will work with designers to create a plan for the project. They will also have pre-existing relationships with vendors, which gives them priority when it comes to obtaining the right materials for your project. Lastly, they’ll ensure that all inspections are completed on time and that building codes are met. These tasks may seem mundane but they are crucial to keeping the entire project on track.
Scheduling
A good general contractor will know how to create and manage a project timeline that meets the client’s needs. They’ll take into account everything from materials and equipment to overhead costs, home office expenses, and labor.
General contractors typically hire subcontractors to complete the actual construction work. They might also have their own team of specialized professionals, including plumbers, electricians, and carpenters.
A GC will also schedule and attend inspections as needed to make sure your project is following local codes. This is important because serious legal ramifications can result from improper permitting and coding procedures.
Permits
A general contractor is the go-to person to make sure all aspects of your construction project run smoothly. They enter into a primary contract with the property owner and are responsible for managing vendors, subcontractors, and ensuring all work is up to code.
They also handle the permitting aspects of a project. They’re familiar with the different permits that are needed, what needs to be done in order to get them, and how long each permit is good for.
General contractors are skilled professionals that can save you time and money during your renovation or building project. They have the knowledge and experience to ensure your project goes smoothly, saving you from costly mistakes down the road. Leon Altomonte is a content writer for SafetyCulture and enjoys writing about everything related to construction, home improvement, and remodeling projects.
Contacting Utilities
A general contractor makes the necessary contacts with the local utility companies to ensure that construction works properly and is safe. They also work with a variety of vendors to purchase the materials needed for the project, ensuring that prices remain affordable and that supplies are available in case there is a shortage.
A good general contractor will have years of practical experience under their belt, and a solid network of trusted suppliers. They will also have the skills and knowledge required to make sure all work is carried out to the highest standards. Finally, they will have a clear understanding of your budget and timeline requirements. If they tick all these boxes, they’re worth considering for your project. However, make sure that they’re fully licensed before deciding to hire them.
Communication
A general contractor is the one in charge of turning the visions and renderings of architects, engineers, interior designers and others into reality at a building site. This is why it’s crucial to find a professional who will be able to work well with you, keeping communication lines open and providing updates throughout the project.
Ideally, a good general contractor will have both practical experience and a college degree in construction management or engineering, though that’s not always a requirement. When selecting a general contractor, be sure to ask for references and check them thoroughly, including online reviews. This way, you can rest assured that they are fully licensed and have plenty of industry experience. The most experienced contractors also have extensive networks and a wealth of knowledge that can help them get the best deals on materials.
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What Does a General Contractor Do? If you’re building a new home or doing renovations, a general contractor is essential to ensure that the project stays on schedule and is completed on budget. They are responsible for the day-to-day oversight of a construction site and management of vendors and tradespeople. The right general contractor will…