In any type of construction contractors are needed to make sure the job gets down properly and up to code. The number and variety of tradespeople is only limited by the complexity of the construction. A small cottage may require the services of a couple of carpenters and an electrician while an office building requires hundreds and even over a thousand workers. For building a home most homebuilders hire a general contractor for the job because, as the name implies, he or she will be the “general” of an army of tradespersons that will arrive to work.
Many do-it-yourself articles explain how easy it is to become your own “general contractor” and avoid paying the fees associated with having an extra body on site. The “how to” articles even come in “e-books” which lay out a plan for this very process. However, these online instruction manuals cost money and that is why they sell them. Because there is no up-to-date set of instructions that work for all projects in all states, each state and, in some cases, each county, has its own set of rules for building a home. Therefore, it takes someone well-versed in the building codes for this specific area and one who has experience building here who can navigate the complicated avenues that lead to completed home.
The Construction Process
A Series if Projects: Construction projects are rarely done by 1 person because many of the permits and building codes require a licensed tradesperson to install or build certain parts. It is a series of smaller projects in the hands of many different subcontractors. For example, the excavator operators clear and level out the site then the foundation crew set up forms and pour cement before the framing crews come in, etc. All of these subtrades must be hired and supervised by the general contractor. He or she must also have to be able to communicate well with these tradespeople and know how to keep them on schedule. This means dealing with diverse groups of people who have only their specific job on their minds. If not handled properly their “tunnel-vision” approach might lead to delays and confusion.
Materials and Equipment: Subcontractors will probably have the right tools and machinery in hand but others may have to rent the equipment needed for the job if you project need specialized tools. The GC will arrange for that. In addition they deal with the companies that will supply the pre-mixed concrete, steel rebar, lumber and many other building materials to schedule the timely deployment at the required price. In addition they will procure the proper permits and licenses and oversee the site to maintain safety regulations and building codes.
