General contractors are specifically trained in managing worksites, subcontractors, tradespeople, budgets, and deadlines - making them a critical asset in the execution of your next construction project.

Not convinced you need a general contractor for your next project? Here is everything you need to know about hiring a general contractor.

What Is A General Contractor?

Let’s start with the basics.

A general contractor is the party responsible for overseeing a construction project. They manage all aspects of the day-to-day activities at the job site, execute the project plan and chart its progress.

What Is A General Contractor Responsible For?

It may sound like common sense, but what is a general manager responsible for on a construction project?

General contractors take on a significant amount of responsibility on a construction site. They are in charge of managing the day-to-day operations, such as ensuring that all employees are safe and on task. Additionally, they are also responsible for hiring and coordinating any subcontractors or architects that may be necessary for the project - relaying important information to them and quality checking their work to make sure that the project is progressing on time and on budget.

Just as they are responsible for coordinating human labour, a general contractor is also responsible for providing the necessary resources in terms of construction materials and equipment, and allocating the appropriate amounts to the correct teams. General contractors ensure that the best quality materials are being used for the project (while also being cautious of the client’s budget) and that those materials arrive at the appropriate times for each stage of the construction project. Good contractors can accurately time resource acquisition and machinery rentals to prevent costly issues or delays.

One of the ways that a general contractor is able to avoid issues is by acting as the primary point of contact to the client, building a relationship with the client to ensure that they are constantly informed about the progress of the project. General contractors often develop a close relationship with the client from the conception of the project, which allows the general contractor to better understand the client’s vision, and to more accurately produce that vision.

A general contractor that is successful in executing their responsibilities is a testament to why project management is important in the construction industry. General contractors and their project management teams capabilities are what keep construction projects of all sizes on track and within the allocated budget, while also ensuring the highest possible quality of the project.

Hiring A General Contractor

As discussed, a general contractor has a significant amount of responsibilities when it comes to managing the construction site, as well as ensuring that the construction project is completed on time and within the set budget.

It is important to choose a reputable general contractor for your project. Don’t be afraid to ask a general contractor if they have worked on projects previously that are similar to the one you are looking to hire them for. Ask for evidence that that project was executed well - request referrals along with trade references?

Also, reputable contractors will ensure that they have their proper permits. This protects you, as it can be illegal to allow certain work to be executed without a permit. Permits also ensure that the general contractor meets with the requirements of the Jurisdictions having Authority, allowing you to properly document that the work contracted was completed to code. 

Are you in need of a general contractor for your next construction project? Contact Southwest and Midwest Design & Construction today to find out how our general contractors can benefit you and your next construction project.