In a construction project, the general contractor will plan and coordinate construction activities in order for the project to be completed within the established time and budget.
Since general contractors are responsible for the entire construction process, they must determine the best methods to finish a project as planned in the pre-construction phase. In this blog post, we’re going to discuss the individual responsibilities a general contractor will take on to ensure project completion.
IntermidiaryResponsabilities
In a construction project, there are usually three teams, the design team, the general contractor, and the client. The general contractor will act as an intermediary between the two other parties communicating with the individuals representing both parties.
Site Assessment
It’s the general contractor’s responsibility to perform a site assessment of the construction site regardless of if it’s new construction or remodels/repair. During the site assessment, the contractor will formulate an expected price for the budget, known as an estimate, assess the property/site for any structural damage, and make suggested alterations/additions to the client’s original plan. After seeing the property, the general contractor can start looking at materials, evaluating their price and quality. The general contractor will also determine the labor costs and whether or not they’ll need to hire subcontractors for any work.
Project Management
Two necessary items for any general contractor are finishing a project on time and within budget. Here are the main ways they ensure those two things happen throughout a project:
- Managing the flow and availability of funds.
- Purchasing materials in anticipation of when they’re needed.
- Requesting inspections in anticipation for when they’re needed and inspectors are available.
- Rentingconstructionequipment
- Hiring subcontractors and managing subcontractors to ensure quality control
- Ensuring the safety and security of the construction site and employees by implementing adequate procedures.
As you can see, general contractors are less hands-on than a typical contractor.
Legal Responsabilities
General contractors are responsible for acquiring necessary permits and licenses before starting the project. They’re also accountable for ensuring subcontractors are fully-licensed. Being unaware of local requirements is not a valid excuse in construction.
Final Words
Building contractors have many roles during the different stages of a construction project. Their role ensures construction is completed on time and within budget. Their presence of mind and foresight are expected to prevent issues that cost money and time.
