What Type of House Work Does a General Contractor Do?

General Contractor
  • Author: Fazal Umer
  • Posted On: January 12, 2023
  • Updated On: October 4, 2023

General contractors can provide various home improvement services, from home remodeling to new construction. If you want to know what your general contractor can do, this is the guide for you. We have highlighted everything you need to know about general contractors and their services. 

What Kind of Home Improvement Work Does a General Contractor Do?

General contractors offer a range of services that can help improve the look and function of a home. From remodeling a bathroom to building an addition, general contractors are well-versed in managing a variety of home improvement projects.

General contractors can help with various projects, from simple repairs to large-scale renovations. They can provide framing, drywall, painting, and tile installation services. They can also install plumbing, electrical wiring, and other services. They can also offer help with decking work. 

There are General contractors Washington who can assist with interior and exterior design as well. They can work with architects and designers to plan the space. They can also help with selecting materials and finishes, as well as overseeing the project to ensure that it is completed as scheduled.

Here are some standard home improvement services you can expect a general contractor to offer. 

  • Kitchen remodel 
  • Bathroom remodel
  • Deck and patio
  • Plumbing work 
  • HVAC services 
  • Electrical work
  • Multi-room remodeling 
  • Rot repair 
  • Flooring 
  • Handyman services
  • Home additions 
  • Interior and exterior painting 

This is not an exhaustive list of services. Some general contractors also provide outdoor services. 

Before you hire a professional for your home improvement project, brief them on your expectations and the precise service you’re looking for. Make a list of the general contractors in your locality, and shortlist them based on the housework you’re looking to get done. For tasks related to the foundation of your home, it’s essential to seek specialized foundation contractors who have the expertise and experience in addressing foundation-specific issues effectively.

Investigate the contractors and see which one has the most experience and is within your budget. You can check out the online reviews left by past clients of the contractors to learn about the quality they bring to the table. Once you’re satisfied with the credentials of these professionals, discuss the project timeline and quote, and make your pick accordingly. 

What Is the Scope of a General Contractor’s Work?

A general contractor is someone who oversees the construction of a project. They are responsible for hiring and managing subcontractors, coordinating materials and labor, ensuring that the project is completed according to plan and budget, and ensuring that the construction meets all local codes and standards.

A general contractor may also be responsible for managing permits, inspections, and other paperwork that may be required during construction. Here is everything you need to know about what these professionals can do for you. 

Overseeing the project

General contractors are responsible for the overall coordination of all aspects of a construction project. This includes planning, scheduling, budgeting, design, and execution.

They are typically hired by a property owner, architect, or builder to oversee the project from start to finish. The primary responsibility of a general contractor is to ensure that the construction project is completed on time and within budget.

This includes hiring subcontractors, scheduling materials and labor, and overseeing the work of the subcontractors. The general contractor is also responsible for ensuring that the project meets all local building standards. 

Ensuring safety standards 

They are also responsible for ensuring that all subcontractors and workers are fully insured and bonded before they are permitted to work on the project. This helps in protecting the property owner in case of an accident or injury on the job site.

These contractors are also responsible for ensuring the safety of those working on the project. This includes ensuring that the job site is safe and that all safety protocols are followed. The general contractor ensures that any hazardous materials are correctly disposed of in accordance with local regulations too. 

Learning the local building codes

General contractors must have a thorough understanding of local building codes and regulations. They must also have a solid knowledge of construction materials and methods. In addition to this, a general contractor must have strong communication and problem-solving skills to manage a construction project effectively. 

Depending on who’s hiring, they are typically paid a percentage of the total cost of the project. The cost of hiring a general contractor varies depending on the size and complexity of the project.

While interviewing the professional for your home improvement work, discuss money so there are no financial altercations down the line. Moreover, ensure they have the necessary experience and qualifications to manage the construction project properly. Now that you know everything about general contractors and their services, you can hire the most-suited professional for your next project!

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Author: Fazal Umer

Fazal is a dedicated industry expert in the field of civil engineering. As an Editor at ConstructionHow, he leverages his experience as a civil engineer to enrich the readers looking to learn a thing or two in detail in the respective field. Over the years he has provided written verdicts to publications and exhibited a deep-seated value in providing informative pieces on infrastructure, construction, and design.

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