General Contractor Lexington KY(GC) is the central hub of communication and collaboration on construction projects. They help team members keep their focus and maintain the project’s momentum by resolving issues quickly.
GCs collaborate with the architect to ensure the build meets specifications and city code. They also coordinate specialty contractor timing, such as making sure electricians complete wiring before drywallers begin their work.
Project management is the application of processes, skills, knowledge and experience to achieve specific project objectives within a finite timescale and budget. Project managers are generally certified project management professionals (PMP). They use a wide variety of tools to manage projects, including Gantt charts to develop visual timelines and work breakdown structures to break large tasks into smaller, more manageable components. Other important tools include project planning, risk management, procurement and communication management. A project manager must also be familiar with the unique requirements of the construction industry. For example, many industrial construction projects require the services of specialized contractors who perform installation and other tasks related to their areas of expertise. These contractors may also act as material and equipment suppliers. In such cases, a project manager must be aware of the operation of these contractors and understand how their performance can affect the cost and schedule of the project.
Project managers must also be familiar with the operation of construction projects that involve labor unions. They must be able to negotiate with union representatives and negotiate the contract terms that will best serve the interests of the project’s owner. These contracts typically include provisions requiring the contractor to employ non-union craftsmen in an open shop and to utilize union craft shops for certain types of work, such as heavy construction or specialized metal fabrication.
After the engineering design has been completed, the general contractor prepares a bid for the construction phase of the project. The project owner may choose to select the general contractor by competitive bidding, or on a best-value basis. In some instances, the project owner may select a group of general contractors to submit bids.
Design
General contractors are in charge of seeing a project’s vision through to actualization. Their expertise, experience and knowledge of home construction ensure that projects meet or exceed expectations in terms of budget, timeline and quality. They can suggest unique design ideas and layouts that will help homeowners create a living space that is both functional and beautiful, and will reflect their personal style and personality.
Because of their experience, GCs can quickly spot and address issues that could potentially derail a project. They can also provide guidance on the latest construction techniques, including sustainable and energy-efficient materials. This can lead to significant savings on energy costs and reduce environmental impact. GCs are also knowledgeable about local building codes and regulations, and will conduct regular inspections to make sure all work complies with these standards.
Depending on the delivery method of a project, a GC may be involved in both the design and construction phases. In design-build projects, a GC works with the architect to develop scope, program and design and then oversees the construction process. This type of collaboration allows for unified and efficient recommendations and minimizes the risk of costly change orders.
On a Design-Bid-Build project, the owner hires an architect to develop a scope and program, then the architect contracts with subcontractors for the design. The GC then takes on the role of a project manager and is responsible for procurement, managing all types of construction subcontractors, and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. This approach can be more cost effective than a Design-Build project but can still lead to siloed communication and expensive change orders.
Permits
One of the most important tasks for general contractors is ensuring that all construction work meets local building codes. This is accomplished by pulling the appropriate permits for each project. Depending on the specific job, different types of permits may be required for building, electrical, plumbing, and/or HVAC work. In addition, some projects require special permits that must be pulled by licensed professionals, such as architects or engineers.
Licensing requirements for general contractors vary by state, but most states require a firm to obtain a contracting license before advertising themselves as general contractors or performing any construction services. In order to get a contractor’s license, a firm must typically submit an application, pass exams, and provide financial information, background checks for qualifying parties, and insurance coverage.
Obtaining a license can be a time-consuming and complicated process, but it is crucial for a general contractor to have the proper licensing in place. In addition, the right type of insurance helps to protect against property damage, injuries, and court fees in case of an accident. To learn more about what is needed to become a licensed general contractor in your state, check out our handy state-by-state list.
The construction industry is full of terminology, roles, and responsibilities that can be confusing for those new to the field. Two terms that often cause confusion are certified/licensed contractors and general contractors. While both play vital roles in the success of a construction project, their differences are significant. This blog post explores the distinctions between these two categories, providing clarity for those navigating the construction maze.
Subcontractors
General contractors may be responsible for hiring a wide range of different specialty subcontractors. Typically, they’ll hire one or more of these subcontractors for the tasks that require specialized equipment or knowledge (for example, concrete contractors to pour the foundation and footings, steel erection subcontractors for a large steel structure, or tile setting subcontractors for bathroom shower spaces, hallways, foyers, or accent walls).
Specialized contracting skills, a strong understanding of building codes, and an ability to communicate with clients and other team members are all important traits of a general contractor. General contractors also need to be aware of new construction technology and industry trends. They must also be able to manage multiple projects at once, which requires coordination between team members, project partners, and clients.
GCs will usually work with a project owner and architect to develop a program of requirements for the building, select a site, and develop a design concept with a pre-design consultant. After the design concept is developed, a GC will work closely with the client to establish a budget and a schedule for the building’s completion.
GCs will review the drawings and project needs, request and collate quotes from subcontractors that will be required for the work to be performed, add their own overhead, and then submit a quote for the job. If awarded the project, a GC will be obligated to finish the work on time and within the agreed upon price. A reputable GC will have backup subcontractors or contingency plans in case of delays, cost overruns, or disputes on the job site. This includes ensuring that all subcontractors have the proper insurance and licensing to perform work in their field.
Insurance
Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned construction professional or just starting out, it’s important for any general contractor to carry the right insurance coverage. You’ll likely need to show proof of your insurance before securing contracts and commercial spaces, and a reputable agent can help you find the policies that meet your state and client requirements.
The most common type of general contracting insurance is general liability, which covers damage or injury caused by your business operations. Commercial property and workers’ compensation insurance may also be required, depending on your location and the nature of your work.
Errors and omissions (E&O) or professional liability is another necessary policy for general contractors, as it protects your business against claims that you’ve made mistakes that resulted in financial loss for a client. These policies are typically offered by specialty insurers that support high-risk professions like general contractors and often offer more flexible terms than standard insurers.
Finally, inland marine insurance is a necessity for general contractors who own or lease tools and equipment that are mobile or stored away from the company’s primary business location. This type of insurance protects the property from damage or theft while it’s in transit, at a job site, or being used by a client or employee.
Getting the right general contractor insurance doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Many insurers provide quotes that include multiple coverage levels in one simple application. A reputable insurance broker can also help you compare the coverage options and pricing of top-rated insurers in the country. In addition, they can help you choose the tiers of coverage that are most appropriate for your business.
