Whether you’re planning on remodeling or building a new home, hiring a general contractor can be the key to completing the project successfully. These seasoned professionals are responsible for overseeing construction, from establishing the budget to managing construction workers and keeping up with legal compliance requirements.
The role of a general contractor is a complex and demanding one, but it is important for homeowners to find the right person for the job. There are several factors to consider when choosing a GC, including their experience and credentials.
Qualifications
A general contractor needs to be licensed in the state where they work. The qualifications vary by state, but some of the most common include years of experience and passing a proficiency exam. A general contractor should also have insurance coverage and be bonded, which will protect you against any liabilities that might arise during the project.
References
Before you hire a GC, it is crucial to obtain references from previous clients. These can provide a valuable glimpse into their quality of work and communication styles. Additionally, it is a good idea to reach out to any subcontractors that the GC has worked with before, to ensure that they are reliable.
How to Recruit a GC
The best way to find a reputable general contractor is to look for ones who have extensive experience in the industry. This will ensure that they can complete your project in a timely and efficient manner. They should have a portfolio of work, and it is also important to get references from other people who they have worked with in the past.
You should also make sure that they are fully licensed by checking with the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs. This will help ensure that they are legitimate and have no hidden fees.
Reputation is everything in the construction industry, and general contractors have the power to make or break relationships with their subcontractors and suppliers. It is essential to find a GC who has built trust with their subcontractors, suppliers and other tradespeople, and one that you can get along with.
Having strong organizational and managerial skills are a must for any general contractor. This can be achieved through a background in carpentry or other building trades, or through a formal education.
A general contractor’s duties may also include helping homeowners with obtaining building permits for their construction projects. This is important because it ensures that all aspects of the project are up to code and meet local regulations. It will also make it easier for them to meet the requirements for a future home inspection.
The GC should know how to get the necessary permits for your project and manage the permitting process, so that the subcontractors can comply with them. It can save you time and money in the long run, because it is a lot easier to have a general contractor oversee the entire project than it is to deal with multiple parties and their separate permits.