Selecting the General Contractor

Selecting the right general contractor is crucial for a smooth and successful project. Here are some key areas to consider when evaluating potential contractors:

Qualifications and Experience:

• License and Insurance: Ensure the contractor holds a valid contractor's license in your area and carries adequate general liability and worker's compensation insurance.

• Experience in Similar Projects: Look for a contractor with a proven track record of building houses comparable to yours in size, style, and complexity.

• References and Reviews: Contact past clients and check online reviews to gauge the contractor's reputation for quality work, communication, and customer satisfaction.

Communication and Availability:

• Clear Communication Style: During the initial consultation, assess the contractor's communication style. Do they explain things clearly and answer your questions patiently?

• Responsiveness: Select a contractor readily available to answer your questions and address concerns throughout the project.

• Project Management Skills: The contractor should have a plan for managing the project schedule, budget, and communication with subcontractors.

Project Proposal and Estimates:

• Detailed Proposal: Request a detailed proposal outlining the scope of work, timeline, budget breakdown, and payment schedule.

• Competitive Estimates: Obtain quotes from several contractors to compare pricing and ensure you're getting a fair value.

• Contingency Plans: Discuss how the contractor will handle unforeseen circumstances and potential cost overruns.

Trust and Comfort Level:

• Gut Feeling: Beyond qualifications, trust your gut feeling. Do you feel comfortable and confident with the contractor's professionalism and demeanor?

Additional Considerations:

• Warranty Information: Inquire about the warranty offered on the contractor's work.

• Subcontractor Network: Ask about the contractor's network of subcontractors and their qualifications.

• Safety Record: Investigate the contractor's safety record to ensure they prioritize a safe work environment.

The general contractor (GC) acts as the central coordinator for your entire home-building project. They are responsible for overseeing all aspects of construction, from planning and budgeting to execution and completion. Here's a breakdown of their key duties and how you, the homeowner, can stay informed:

General Contractor's Responsibilities:

• Project Management:

  • Develop a detailed project schedule outlining key milestones and deadlines.

  • Manage the project budget, including procurement of materials and subcontractor invoices.

  • Facilitate communication between you, the homeowner, architects, engineers, and subcontractors.

• Construction Oversight:

  • Supervise the work of subcontractors, ensuring they adhere to plans, codes, and safety standards.

  • Maintain a safe work environment on the construction site.

  • Address any unexpected issues that may arise during construction.

• Quality Control:

  • Implement quality control measures to ensure the construction meets your expectations and building codes.

  • Conduct inspections throughout the building process to identify and address any potential problems.

• Communication and Transparency:

  • Regularly communicate project progress updates, including potential delays or cost changes.

  • Address your questions and concerns promptly and professionally.

  • Maintain clear and open communication throughout the project.

Keeping Tabs on Progress:

As the homeowner, you have a right to stay informed about the progress of your build. Here's how you can effectively keep tabs on the GC's responsibilities:

• Review the Contract: Ensure a comprehensive contract outlines the GC's responsibilities, project timeline, and payment schedule.

• Schedule Regular Meetings: Establish a schedule for regular meetings with the GC to discuss progress, address concerns, and review upcoming milestones.

• Request Project Updates: Don't hesitate to request updates outside of scheduled meetings if you have questions or concerns.

• Site Visits: While the GC manages the day-to-day operations, you have the right to visit the construction site periodically to observe progress.

• Maintain Records: Keep copies of all contracts, plans, invoices, and communication records for your reference.

Additional Tips:

• Utilize Technology: Many GCs leverage project management software that allows for online access to project schedules, budgets, and documents.

• Hire a Project Inspector (Optional): For added peace of mind, consider hiring a professional inspector to conduct independent quality checks