A general contractor oversees the entire construction project. He or she hires the individual subcontractors (plumbers, painters, electricians, and so forth) and sequences their work. He researches any zoning requirements and obtains the necessary permits and inspections. Overall, he is responsible for keeping the project on time and on target.
What are the disadvantages of being my own general contractor?
Doing it yourself usually costs more than you anticipate. Granted, the competitive pricing at hardware superstores might save you as much money on building supplies as a general contractor can. But you're likely to lose some of that profit margin on the labor end.
First, there's the damage factor. Many DYI homeowners discover they get what she paid for when she hired the cheapest contractors. Because of poor workmanship, she had to hire another contractor and pay twice to get the job done right.
In contrast, general contractors usually keep a short list of reliable subcontractors on whom they call often. "People need to take into consideration the quality of work they want done. When you hire a general contractor, you're also hiring his team of subcontractors whom he does work with on a regular basis."
Second, realize you're investing your time as well as your money. As general contractor, you're the one calling to get bids from and to line up the 15 to 30 subcontractors needed for the typical project. Given the booming construction and remodeling market, many subcontractors give low priority to smaller jobs and DIY jobs. "Private homeowners get put on the bottom of the list.
Once you successfully hire your crew, you must be available to let in the workers, answer questions, and keep an eye on their progress. Those runs between work and home may cut into your day as well as your productivity. "It's easy to forget that time is money. People shouldn't underestimate how much time it can involve. If you're busy working full time, being your own general contractor is feasible, but it's really difficult.
If I decide to hire a general contractor, what credentials should I look for?
Since just about anyone can put on a tool belt and call himself or herself a contractor, it's no wonder that remodeling is one of the Better Business Bureau's top industries for complaints. With some diligence, you can find a reputable contractor who meets not only industry standards but your own.
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