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#The Ins and Outs of General Contracting
**General contracting** is a crucial part of the construction industry. **General contractors**
manage and oversee construction projects from start to finish. They are involved in all aspects, from planning and budgeting to hiring subcontractors and ensuring timelines are met. Becoming a successful general contractor requires a diverse skillset and deep knowledge of the construction process. This guide will provide an overview of what general contracting entails and what it takes to thrive in this fast-paced, demanding field.
##What Does a General Contractor Do?
A **general contractor** serves as the manager of a construction project. They are responsible for planning, budgeting, scheduling, coordinating with architects and engineers, securing permits, hiring and overseeing subcontractors, sourcing materials, and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.
The **general contractor** acts as the central point of communication between all parties involved in a construction project. They collaborate closely with clients to determine needs and expectations. They also regularly update clients on progress and any issues that arise.
Throughout the construction process, the general contractor oversees quality control. They inspect work completed by subcontractors and suppliers to ensure it meets standards and complies with contract specifications. They are accountable for making sure the project stays on schedule and budget.
##Key Responsibilities of a General Contractor
General contractors have many crucial responsibilities throughout the lifespan of a construction project:
- Project planning and budgeting - Develop detailed plans, timelines, and cost estimates. Adjust plans as needed. Ensure project stays within budget.
- Permitting - Obtain all necessary permits and licenses for construction projects. Comply with building codes and regulations.
- Hiring subcontractors - Find, vet, and hire qualified subcontractors to carry out specialty trade work (electrical, plumbing, etc.).
- Materials sourcing - Source and order all construction materials needed for the project. Schedule deliveries.
- Construction management - Oversee day-to-day operations on job site. Coordinate workers and tradespeople. Troubleshoot problems.
- Quality control - Inspect finished work to ensure it meets contract requirements. Have subpar work redone if necessary.
- Safety - Maintain a safe job site. Ensure OSHA safety standards are followed. Provide safety training.
- Project completion - Manage punch list of last fixes. Turn over finished project to owner. Assist with owner move-in.
To succeed as a general contractor requires core skills:
- Construction expertise - In-depth knowledge of construction materials, standards, regulations, processes, and best practices.
- Project management skills - Ability to develop detailed project plans and schedules, track budgets and timelines, and adjust as needed.
- Business and financial acumen - Understand how to price and bid competitively on projects. Manage project cash flow and finances responsibly.
- Leadership - Direct authority over all workers and tradespeople on site. Motivate project teams. Resolve disputes diplomatically.
- Problem-solving skills - Assess issues as they arise and quickly devise effective solutions. Troubleshoot delays or setbacks.
- Communication skills - Clearly convey expectations to clients, architects, subcontractors. Keep teams coordinated. Give clear direction.
- Attention to detail - Meticulous oversight of project plans and processes. Ensure quality and compliance at every stage.
##Tips for Running a Successful General Contracting Business
For **general contractors** looking to build a thriving construction firm, here are key tips:
- Maintain an experienced, skilled team and network of subcontractors. Don't compromise on talent.
- Build strong relationships with clients and demonstrate reliability. Focus on clear communication and transparency.
- Develop a stellar professional reputation for delivering projects on-time and on-budget.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest software, regulations, codes, and industry best practices.
- Maintain rigorous organization, record-keeping, attention to detail, and quality control.
- Price competitively but realistically on project bids. Avoid underbidding to win jobs.
- Handle contracts, invoices, change orders, and other paperwork thoroughly and promptly.
- Market your services and network aggressively to obtain new business. Seek referrals from satisfied clients.
**General contractors** play an indispensable role in the construction industry. By mastering essential skills and running their businesses effectively, they can build thriving firms with steady workflows. With careful planning and rigorous project management, general contractors can deliver successful projects and satisfied clients.
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