What Does a General Contractor Do?
A general contractor is a key member of a construction team. They perform the day-to-day operations on a jobsite, from managing crews to arranging for permits and equipment. In addition to handling the technical aspects of a construction project, they have the experience to deliver a high quality product that satisfies both the client and local building codes.
General contractors have the knowledge and expertise to turn your architect’s vision into a reality. They are also in charge of the big picture elements of the construction process, from managing labor and subcontractors to keeping the project on time and on budget. When a project is completed, a general contractor usually keeps a portion of the funds as profit.
In many cases, a general contractor is in charge of a team of professionals, which includes engineers, architects, and other experts. This makes it possible for a GC to be responsible for everything from managing workers to providing utilities on site. Depending on the size of the project, these services may vary.
Some general contractors have been in the industry for many years. These seasoned veterans have a wealth of experience on a wide variety of projects. They can serve as the main point of contact between the owner and construction personnel.
Managing the construction process can be a daunting task. The job can be complicated by small details, and it can be easy to lose track of the larger picture. To avoid this, it is best to hire a professional. It is also important to choose a contractor with the appropriate licensing. You should check with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance to learn about the state’s license and tax requirements.
When hiring a GC, you should find out if they are licensed, bonded, and insured. The quickest way to get information is to check their payment profile. Public payment profiles can give you an idea of the quality of a GC’s work.
Another important aspect of a general contractor’s job is problem-solving. Construction often involves a plethora of subcontractors, and problems can arise on the jobsite. As a result, the GC must be able to resolve issues before they halt a project. For example, an overrun could mean the need to rework a project’s scope or a need to ask the owner for more money.
During the construction process, a general contractor must also coordinate with vendors, wholesalers, and subcontractors. Having a dependable relationship with these groups can ensure that the materials needed for a project are available at the right price. Additionally, general contractors need to make sure that the work of licensed subcontractors is done safely and efficiently.
The role of a general contractor is an important one. As a general contractor, they are tasked with ensuring that the project is on schedule, safe, and meets all legal and regulatory standards. Although this can be a challenging task, a good GC can be invaluable to the end product.
