GCs take the design concept and plan for a project, then turn it into reality. They are responsible for everything that happens on the job site, managing subcontractors and vendors, and communicating with everyone involved throughout the building process. GCs also take on much more financial responsibility than construction managers do, so they tend to be hands-on with the project on a daily basis and have far more skin in the game when it comes to ensuring that the project is completed successfully.

When hiring a general contractor for your remodeling project, look for a licensed, insured contractor with a track record of quality work, excellent communication, and adherence to deadlines. Make sure they have the right licenses for your state and can provide proof of insurance, a business liability policy, and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you from liability in case any unforeseen accidents occur on the jobsite, as well as ensures that your contractor is following local regulations and best practices for safety and professionalism.

A reputable general contractor has a strong understanding of the latest technology and construction industry trends to manage projects efficiently and accurately. They will work closely with you and your team to establish clear expectations for the project scope, schedule, and budget, while keeping the lines of communication open and working together towards a successful outcome.

The most important task for a general contractor is to manage all the moving parts of a construction project. This involves scheduling tasks, ordering and inspecting materials, and providing a steady flow of work for tradespeople. GCs can also help with permitting, managing the project timeline, and estimating costs to keep the whole project on track and within budget.

During a construction project, it is essential to maintain cleanliness to avoid any damage or disruptions to your home. A reputable general contractor will prioritize tidiness and will create plans to minimize construction mess and debris throughout the project duration. They will also communicate with you regularly about any issues or delays they may encounter, and be able to resolve them promptly to get your project back on track.

While there are several ways to become a general contractor, most start out as a regular construction worker and learn about different aspects of the trade. They may specialize in masonry, carpentry, framing, or plumbing as they gain experience, and they can then move into management roles when they have the necessary qualifications. Some GCs earn bachelor’s degrees in construction science, building science, surveying, or construction safety, and others pursue licenses to ensure they are properly trained for their jobs.

While some homeowners opt to use their own general contractors to complete a renovation, most choose to hire an experienced GC for peace of mind that the project will be completed correctly, on time, and on budget. In addition to their expertise in turning construction visions into realities, a GC’s knowledge of the industry and best practices helps them deliver exceptional results.