What Does a General Contractor Do?
A general contractor oversees the big-picture facets of construction, including sourcing materials and hiring subcontractors. They’re also responsible for developing a timeline and managing safety standards on site.
A GC often works with an architect on a project, which makes it easier for them to understand the blueprints and design requirements of the job. The GC’s responsibility is to ensure that the construction crew, which may include excavation contractors, plumbers, electricians, dry-wallers, roofers and foundation crew, all do their work in accordance with the plans and specifications of the architect.
The GC also has to coordinate with vendors and ensure that all raw materials and building components are delivered on time and that they meet quality standards. They must also make sure that all construction workers have the proper licensing and permits in place.
GCs are usually responsible for hiring subcontractors, which can involve a variety of skilled craftspeople, such as carpenters, masons, iron workers and plumbers. The GC’s business depends on the subcontractors they hire, so a good GC has good relationships with these businesses and will be able to offer competitive prices.
Licensing, Insurance and Taxes
Before working with a GC, it’s important to check their credentials. Generally, you’ll want to find one with a good track record and a solid reputation in the industry. This can be achieved by checking their references, requesting proof of their license and verifying that they have insurance coverage.
It’s also a good idea to ask for referrals from previous clients and visit their construction sites. Getting feedback from former customers is a great way to get a feel for their professionalism, communication skills and ability to keep a project on schedule.
They can also give you a sense of how they communicate with their teams and clients, so it’s important to find someone who is communicative and easy to work with. This is especially important if the build involves multiple departments or multiple levels of employees.
A GC’s job is to plan the construction process, so it’s important to hire a team that’s experienced in this area. This will help to keep everything running smoothly and prevent any major delays that could cost you a lot of money and time.
If you’re looking for a GC, be sure to look for someone who has years of experience and a solid track record in the industry. You should also check their references, as this will give you a better sense of whether they are reliable and conscientious.
GCs are also responsible for maintaining safety on the jobsite, so it’s vital to hire a GC who has experience in this field. This will help to ensure the safety of all construction professionals, the materials and the overall project site.
The GC must also make sure that all workers have the proper training and qualifications. This is especially important if the construction crew includes carpenters, masons, iron workers or other specialty craftsmen.
The GC is the point person for all construction-related legal issues, so they must make sure that all contractors and subcontractors have the necessary licenses and permits in place. It’s also essential to verify that the GC has insurance, so you don’t end up paying for injuries or damage to property caused by the construction crew or a subcontractor.