Hiring a general contractor for your home construction or remodeling project is a big decision. But it is a necessary one that will save you both time and money in the long run.
You want to hire a contractor who is trustworthy and honest. During the course of a large construction job, problems are bound to arise and you need to be able to trust your contractor to act in your best interests.
It is also important to ensure that the general contractor you choose has all of the necessary licenses and permits to do your project safely. Be sure to check their credentials with the Better Business Bureau and the state licensing agency.
Before you make any decision to hire a contractor, it is important to ask for references and feedback from current clients. This will give you a good sense of how the contractor interacts with his or her customers.
Be sure to interview several contractors in person and on the phone, asking a variety of questions. This will help you whittle down your list to a few that are right for the job.
Have a contract drawn up that is very specific about the work to be done, deadlines, payment process, subcontractors and materials. This will ensure that you are on the same page throughout the process.
In addition, it is a good idea to have a termination clause in the contract. This allows you to end the contract early if you are not satisfied with the results.
Your GC should have an extensive network of suppliers that they can use to purchase supplies for your project at a lower rate than if you were purchasing these items on your own. In this way, they can pass on these savings to you.
The general contractor is in charge of ensuring that your construction or renovation project is completed on time and within budget. They will manage the responsibilities of all parties involved in your project, including architects, engineers and zoning boards. They will also be responsible for ensuring the safety of those on your property and those at the job site.
They will be able to keep you updated on the status of your project, so you know when you can expect it to be complete. They will also be able to handle any unexpected problems that may arise on the job.
Another key role of a general contractor is to be the liaison between you and any other parties involved in your construction project. This includes coordinating with zoning boards and other parties, as well as communicating any changes in the scope of your project.
This is a crucial role in any project, and a reputable contractor will take pride in doing their best to meet your needs. They will do this by ensuring that all parties have the proper permits and insurances for their work, and if a problem does occur, they will work quickly and efficiently to resolve it.