What Does a General Contractor Do?
A general contractor is a professional who oversees the construction of a building, from sourcing materials and hiring subcontractors to communicating with all the parties involved. The GC also provides quality control, manages the budget, and keeps the project on schedule. In addition, the GC is responsible for the safety of the people on the job site. It is a good idea to hire a GC if you want to complete a home remodel, renovation or building project.
A general contractor is a crucial member of a construction team. They work on a contractual basis and usually earn a portion of the total cost of the project. A GC will typically charge between 10 and 20 percent of the project. However, some GCs charge as much as 25 percent of the total price for larger projects. Some GCs specialize in specific areas, such as designing and constructing homes.
A good general contractor is licensed, insured and bonded. This helps protect you and your family from liability issues that can arise during the construction process. A good GC can also help you solve problems that may arise. A GC can coordinate with the architect, electricians and plumbers on your project and keep everyone in the loop. They can also ensure that the project is built to code and meets all of your expectations.
One of the most important GC functions is managing subcontractors. A GC will usually make sure that all subcontractors are properly trained, and will hire the appropriate ones for your project. Some GCs are responsible for arranging the rental of heavy equipment within budget limits. The general contractor will often submit a list of subcontractors to the client. The GC will also ensure that all subcontractors have the proper permits for the construction project.
A GC can also assist you with project proposals, including a billing for materials and labor. This requires a lot of effort from the GC, as the proposal will need to cover the most important details of the project. The GC can help you determine the best type of materials to purchase, such as cement or roofing.
In addition to the GC’s role in the construction process, a GC can assist with the post-construction phases as well. This includes cleaning up the construction site and ensuring that all building supplies are installed according to manufacturer’s instructions. In addition, a GC can take care of product warranties. A GC can also protect an existing property with drop cloths, which are a great way to protect your home from the elements.
If you are unsure of which type of general contractor is right for your project, you can always use a contractor comparison site to find a reputable contractor in your area. A GC will have experience in the local construction industry and will be familiar with the building codes, permitting processes and other aspects of your project.
A GC will also help you avoid the common construction pitfalls, such as overpaying for materials and scheduling problems. This is a valuable service, as it can eliminate many of the headaches that come with a construction project.