What Does a General Contractor Do?


Upon starting a renovation project some people wonder if they really need a general contractor… there are many benefi ts to having someone guide you though the process of your renovation or building project!


Experience & Knowledge – you will trust your contractor to provide valuable tips, advice and options based on their years of experience. They’ve done it before, know the processes, and what works and what does not. They know about building codes, how to do permit applications, proper materials needed, trades required, construction methods and safety practices. They also bring tangible, necessary things to the job such as a license, insurance and worker’s compensation.


Planning – from the design stage, on to demolition, framing, electrical, plumbing, insulation, drywall, ceilings, painting, fl ooring, doors, windows, baseboards, trim & cabinetry, a general contractor will guide you through all of your decisions at each phase. They have established relationships with all the subtrades & suppliers needed, and will work with these familiar people (as they do day- to-day on multiple projects) to ensure quality and smooth timelines are met so your project can move effortlessly between the trades without delays or concerns. The better planned out and scheduled the project is, the sooner you are back into your newly updated space, saving time, stress and ultimately money!


Communication – a General Contractor is your one go-to source of communication. They are your team manager! When you have ideas or concerns you can go to them and they will make sure questions are answered & information is passed on to all trades that need to know to keep everything running smoothly. Changing timelines or budgets - whether because of additional work discovered by the trades, or added by you the client, should be constantly discussed between you and your contractor to alleviate any surprises during or at the end of the project.


When choosing a contractor do not be afraid to ask for references from previous clients, word of mouth is usually a good way to go! Also, if you ask for budget numbers from more than one contractor, be sure you are comparing apples to apples. What might be included or “standard” for one contractor may be a costly “upgrade” from another.


Chances are you have your own job and family life to juggle. Renovations can be disruptive to your everyday life. Consider hiring an expert to help you navigate through the project in a timely fashion and with confi dence along the way… you may fi nd that the renovation process can actually be fun!


WELCOME HOME | FALL 2019 9


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