General Contractors
The single point of responsibility for a project's schedule, subcontractors, permits, and budget.
01
What They Do
A general contractor takes overall responsibility for delivering a construction project. That typically includes pricing the scope, pulling permits, hiring and coordinating subcontractors, ordering materials, managing the schedule, and calling for required inspections.
On residential and light commercial work, the general contractor is usually the person you contract with directly, and the person accountable for workmanship across every trade that touches the project.
02
When You May Need One
- A project involves more than one trade — framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, finishes
- Permits and inspections are required
- You want one contract, one schedule, and one warranty conversation
- You do not have the time or experience to coordinate trades yourself
- A lender or insurer requires a licensed contractor of record
03
Questions to Ask
- Are you licensed and insured, and can you provide current certificates?
- Which parts of the work will your crews perform, and which will be subcontracted?
- What is included in the bid, and what is carried as an allowance?
- Who pulls permits and schedules inspections?
- How are change orders priced and approved?
- What is your payment schedule, and what triggers each draw?
04
Common Misconceptions
"The lowest bid is the best value." Bids are often not comparable — one may carry allowances, exclusions, or a thinner scope than another.
"A licensed contractor means every subcontractor is licensed." Verify licensing and insurance for the trades doing the work, not just the general contractor.
"Change orders mean someone made a mistake." Unforeseen conditions are normal in remodels and rural sites; how they are handled matters more than whether they occur.
05
Related Reading & Resources
The most successful real estate decisions often involve collaboration between several professionals working toward the same goal. Understanding each person's role helps you ask better questions and make more confident decisions.
06
Other Contractor Specialties
- Commercial ContractorsContractors organized around commercial codes, tenant timelines, and occupied-building logistics.
- Custom Home BuildersBuilders who translate a design, a site, and a budget into a finished home.
- Remodeling ContractorsSpecialists in working inside existing structures, where surprises are part of the scope.
Planning a Construction or Remodeling Project?
Construction projects often involve many important decisions before work begins. I'd be happy to help you think through your project, identify the questions worth asking, and connect you with local construction professionals as you evaluate your options.
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