A building contractor is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of a construction site, management of vendors and tradesmen, as well as communication with all involved parties throughout the course of a project. Whether you’re in the process of remodeling your home or designing a commercial space, hiring the right general contractor is crucial to ensuring your project goes according to plan and stays on budget.
According to the American Institute of Architects (AIA), building contractors are in demand. In fact, the AIA projects that overall construction spending will increase by nearly 9% in 2022. That’s great news for contractors, but it also means that the construction industry is still facing challenges, including a labor shortage and rising inflation.
The most successful contractors are highly skilled at planning, constructing and managing complex projects. They are adept at negotiating contracts, overseeing the work of subcontractors and ensuring compliance with all local and state codes and regulations. They are also responsible for ensuring that all project deadlines are met and that the work is completed to a high standard.
Despite the recent ups and downs of the construction industry, most firms are still busy with new builds and alteration projects. Some of the biggest building contractors include Turner Construction, Hensel Phelps Construction Company, and STO Building Group. These firms are known for their extensive experience in commercial, industrial, and healthcare buildings.
When choosing a building contractor for your project, it’s important to do your research. Check out reviews and testimonials to find the best candidate for your needs. Additionally, be sure to ask about their previous experiences with similar projects and any special skills or certifications they may have.
In addition to being experts in their field, building contractors are typically required to have an active registration number with the Department of Buildings (DOB). This ensures that they are properly licensed to perform work on your property. Depending on the complexity of your project, you may need to hire more than one general contractor.
Most large building contractors also employ subcontractors, which allows them to scale their operations and deliver projects more quickly. These subcontractors are typically specialized in specific areas of building such as masonry, plumbing, and electrical wiring. These subcontractors are not employees of the building contractor but rather independent contractors who form agreements with a general contractor to carry out a particular part of the construction.
For example, Corr explains that a general contractor will usually have “your typicals—your framers and concrete guys.” Then you’ll have your drywall, insulation, electric, plumbing, and masonry subcontractors. And as your spec gets higher and more complex, you’ll start having specialty subcontractors like companies who will make the glass walls for your swimming pool.
As you work with your building contractor, keep the lines of communication open and share any ideas or suggestions for improvement. This will help them meet your expectations, improve efficiency, and provide you with an excellent result. Lastly, remember to show your appreciation for a job well done. This will boost the chances of a positive relationship and mutual success in future projects.