1. What does a general contractor (GC) do?
A general contractor oversees the construction process from start to finish. Their responsibilities include:
Hiring and managing subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, carpenters, etc.).
Procuring materials and ensuring they are on-site when needed.
Managing the project schedule and ensuring deadlines are met.
Ensuring the work complies with building codes and regulations.
Communicating with clients to update them on progress and address concerns.
2. How do I hire the right general contractor?
Research: Look for contractors with experience in similar projects. Check reviews, ask for references, and view their portfolio.
Verify credentials: Ensure they are licensed, bonded, and insured.
Interview candidates: Discuss timelines, budgets, and their approach to project management.
Get multiple bids: Compare estimates from at least three contractors, keeping in mind that the lowest bid isn’t always the best choice.
Contract review: Review the contract carefully, ensuring it outlines the scope of work, payment terms, timelines, and warranties.
3. What are the steps in the construction process?
A typical construction project follows these stages:
Pre-construction planning: Includes design development, permitting, and finalizing the budget and timeline.
Site preparation: Clearing and grading the site, utility setup, and foundation work.
Framing: Building the structural framework for walls, floors, and the roof.
Systems installation: Adding plumbing, electrical wiring, HVAC systems, and insulation.
Interior and exterior finishes: Installing drywall, flooring, cabinetry, painting, siding, and roofing.
Final touches and inspections: Completing final details and passing inspections for occupancy approval.
4. How does the permitting process work?
Why are permits needed? Permits ensure the project meets safety and zoning regulations.
Who handles permits? In most cases, the general contractor applies for the necessary permits.
Common permits: Building permits, electrical permits, plumbing permits, and mechanical permits.
Timeline: The permitting process can take a few days to several weeks depending on the scope and local government efficiency.
Construction timeline: A detailed schedule outlining when each phase of the project will be completed.
Factors affecting timelines: Weather, material availability, labor shortages, and unexpected issues like design changes or site conditions.
Role of the GC: The contractor monitors the timeline and adjusts as needed, keeping clients informed about delays and solutions.
5. What is a construction timeline, and how is it managed?
Initial budget: Based on project scope, material quality, and labor. The GC provides an estimate after evaluating the design plans.
Change orders: If you make changes during construction, costs may increase. These adjustments are documented as “change orders.”
Contingency fund: It’s wise to set aside 10-20% of the budget for unexpected expenses.
Cost tracking: A reputable GC will provide regular updates on expenditures and alert you to potential overruns.
6. How is the budget determined, and what happens if costs exceed it?
Payments are typically made in installments tied to project milestones. A standard payment structure might look like this:
Initial deposit (10-15%) upon signing the contract.
Progress payments at major milestones (e.g., after framing, systems installation).
Final payment upon project completion and approval.
7. How are payments made to the contractor?
Subcontractors are specialists hired by the GC to complete specific tasks, such as:
Electricians for wiring and lighting.
Plumbers for water and sewer systems.
Carpenters for framing and finish work.
Painters, roofers, and landscapers for specialized finishes.
The GC coordinates and supervises subcontractors to ensure work quality and adherence to the schedule.
8. What is the role of subcontractors?
Inspections are conducted at various stages to ensure the project complies with local codes. Common inspections include:
Foundation inspection: Ensures structural stability.
Rough-in inspection: Checks plumbing, electrical, and HVAC installations before walls are closed.
Final inspection: Verifies all work meets safety and building standards.
The GC schedules and facilitates inspections, addressing any deficiencies identified by inspectors.
9. How do inspections work?
Discuss with the GC: Changes are documented through a “change order,” which outlines new costs and timeline impacts.
Be prepared for delays: Adjustments may require additional materials, labor, or design revisions.
Approval process: Changes are typically not implemented until the client approves the change order.
10. What if I want to make changes during construction?
Experienced subcontractors: The GC hires skilled professionals with proven track records.
Regular inspections: The GC and inspectors review work at key milestones.
Communication: Frequent updates and walkthroughs with the client ensure expectations are met.
11. How is quality control ensured?
Walkthrough: The GC and client inspect the completed work to ensure it meets expectations.
Punch list: A list of final fixes or adjustments needed before the project is officially complete.
Final payment: Once the punch list is resolved, the client makes the final payment.
Warranties: The GC provides warranties for materials and workmanship, covering specific issues for a defined period.
12. What happens at project completion?
Communication: Open dialogue between the client and GC often resolves issues quickly.
Documentation: Ensure all agreements are documented in the contract to avoid misunderstandings.
Mediation: If disputes arise, mediation or arbitration may be necessary.
13. How do delays and disputes get resolved?
Set clear expectations: Define the scope, budget, and timeline in the contract.
Regular updates: Schedule weekly or bi-weekly check-ins with the GC.
Be decisive: Make design and material decisions promptly to avoid delays.