Unless you have a background in carpentry or extensive experience handling construction projects yourself, it’s usually best to leave large-scale remodeling jobs to the experts. General Contractors handle big-picture planning, sourcing materials and equipment, and ensuring building codes are followed. If you’re interested in becoming a general contractor, start by researching how licensure works at the state and city level.
General Contractors are responsible for a variety of tasks that keep construction projects moving forward. They are in charge of planning, preparing, and executing the plan that has been agreed upon with the project owner. They work to create budgets and schedules, as well as monitor costs and make adjustments when necessary.
They also coordinate with subcontractors, laborers, and workers to ensure that everyone involved in the construction process is on the same page. Depending on the type of contractor, they may even design their own project plans or work with an architect on a design-bid-build contract.
Experienced contractors know how to anticipate problems that could arise during construction and find solutions quickly, which helps reduce the time spent on the project. Their knowledge of the building process also allows them to estimate cost-effective methods for purchasing materials and determining man-hours. In addition, a GC can help you get the best price for your construction needs by working with multiple vendors and companies.
Another key part of the job is maintaining products’ warranties and guarantees, which involves keeping records of purchases and inspections. They’re also responsible for obtaining permits and staying within coding requirements so your project is legal and safe.
A GC must be able to communicate clearly with all members of their team and clients to ensure that everyone understands what’s required. They’re often in charge of communicating with a diverse group of people, including engineers, architects, and designers. They’re also in charge of creating a work environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.
Because a GC’s duties can be highly seasonal, it’s important that they have strong organizational skills and are able to manage multiple projects simultaneously. They often oversee several phases of construction and must be able to adjust their schedules based on weather and other factors that affect the timeline and progress of a project. They should also be able to keep track of bills and paperwork so that they don’t miss any deadlines. In addition, they should also be able to handle the transition of ownership after construction is complete and tie up any loose ends.
Education and Training Requirements
Whether you work as an independent contractor or for a construction company, you must meet education and training requirements in order to obtain a license in your area. Generally, the required qualifications depend on your state and local laws. Some states require a certain amount of experience, while others have specific educational requirements like a degree in construction management or engineering.
Most general contractors start as construction workers, gaining the necessary hands-on experience in different areas of building projects, such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work. Some may even enroll in apprenticeship programs run by unions or professional organizations, which can last up to four years. The path to becoming a general contractor also includes taking training courses and getting certified in different trades, which will help you find work and build your career.
You can also consider pursuing the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) certification from the Construction Management Association of America. This prestigious title signifies that you have proven skills in managing a complex construction project, including budgeting and finance, schedules, professional practices, and safety and risk management. To obtain the CCM, you need to demonstrate extensive industry experience and pass a rigorous exam. While it may seem overwhelming to prepare for the CCM, there are a variety of study guides available that can help you learn the necessary material and prepare well for the exam.
Another requirement for obtaining a general contractor license is passing the contractor licensing exam. The exam is usually timed, and you must pass it in order to become licensed. It is important to stay calm and to develop a solid study routine to make it easier to pass. In addition, it is helpful to take practice exams and join an online preparation program.
Besides completing the educational and training requirements for licensure, you must have the right small business insurance to protect yourself and your company against potential liabilities and risks. Many clients will ask to see proof of this insurance before they hire you for a job, so it’s worth investing in a policy that meets your state’s requirements.
Licensing Requirements
The licensing requirements for general contractors can vary depending on the state and municipality. Some states, such as Florida, require a minimum of four years of experience and pass a trade exam, business and law exam, and show proof of financial stability and workers’ compensation insurance. Other states, like Illinois, leave the licensing up to individual municipalities. For example, GCs in Chicago must register with the Department of Building and Permits to work on residential construction projects.
When choosing a GC, make sure to ask for references from previous clients. Also, do a quick online search to see what others have said about them. If you find a number of bad reviews, it may be best to look elsewhere.
A GC’s skills, expertise and ability to troubleshoot can make all the difference in a construction project. They can ensure that the finished product meets quality standards and is on schedule, without going over budget. This is especially important on large construction projects that involve complex machinery, equipment or specialized materials.
Besides ensuring that the work is completed as planned, a GC oversees the management of vendors and subcontractors. This means they are in charge of negotiating pricing, capacities, turnaround times, quality work, invoicing and payment. GCs also ensure that there is an efficient communication channel between all project units, from the office to the field and back again.
Another responsibility is to keep up with the latest trends and changes in the construction industry. This is why it’s a good idea for a GC to take continuing education courses and upgrade their skill set on a regular basis. These classes could include university-based certification courses, online continuing education classes or government training sessions.
For a GC to be licensed, they must complete the application process, pass a background and prescreening investigation, and have a notarized copy of their license certificate. Some areas, like New York, also require GCs to register their business. They should also obtain all necessary permits and register for taxes, such as income tax withholding and sales and use tax.
Salary
As with most jobs in the construction industry, the salary level of a General Contractor can vary widely. However, those with an extensive background in masonry and carpentry have excellent job prospects, as do individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in construction management or civil engineering. A GC can also earn an industry-recognized certification to enhance their reputation and increase their earning potential.
A GC can work as an employee of a construction company or on their own as a self-employed freelancer. In the latter case, they usually seek out a subcontractor to assist them with specific phases of a project. In some cases, a GC may work with several different subcontractors simultaneously on a single project. This increases their chances of obtaining the best possible pricing on materials.
Because they have experience with all kinds of projects, a General Contractor can quickly assess a situation and find a suitable solution. Moreover, they are familiar with local building codes and regulations, which could prevent them from making costly mistakes that would necessitate additional construction costs.
Additionally, a seasoned General Contractor has developed relationships with industry suppliers over time. These relationships can result in lower prices on materials, especially when the supplier knows that the GC will be needing large quantities of certain items on an ongoing basis.
Depending on the type of project, the timeframe for completing construction and other factors, a GC can make between $60,000 and $100,000 per year. Those with specialized skills and knowledge of the latest technologies can earn significantly more.
Working with a General Contractor can ensure that your renovation is done on budget and finished on schedule. As a result, you can complete your home upgrades and enjoy the added value that they add to your property.
It can be difficult to navigate the intricacies of a construction project, which is why it’s often best to hire a professional GC. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will also help you avoid costly mistakes that could potentially put your house at risk.
