When it comes to home construction or renovation, a general contractor can be a lifesaver. Whether you’re planning on a small project like painting or more extensive renovations that involve electrical, plumbing, flooring and other tradespeople, hiring a GC can save you time, headaches and stress.
Hiring a general contractor can be a great way to make sure your construction project goes smoothly and according to schedule. This person will oversee the project, manage your subcontractors and ensure that your building complies with local laws and regulations.
They’ll also help you through the inspection process and get you all of the necessary permits and licenses. They can also be a big help if you have a very large or complex project, as they can keep everyone on track and help you avoid any costly delays.
The best general contractors are professional, experienced and reliable. Here are a few tips for finding the right one for your home remodeling or building project:
1. Ask for references, including recent and past customers.
2. Check if they’re licensed and insured.
Ideally, the contractor you choose will be licensed and insured and have a solid reputation for quality work. It’s also a good idea to look at their Better Business Bureau rating, as that will tell you if they’ve had any complaints in the past.
3. Ask them to give you a price estimate and scope of work before they start working on your home.
4. Ask for a contract that details the work to be done, the timeline, payment process, subcontractors and materials.
5. Obtain a copy of their license and insurance information before you hire them.
6. Read their reviews and ratings on the Better Business Bureau website.
7. If they’ve had a lot of complaints, ask them how they resolved them.
8. If you’re not comfortable with a GC that has had complaints, find another company to work with.
The best general contractors are professional, reliable and knowledgeable. They’re well-versed in the construction industry and know all of the legal requirements for completing a project.
They’ll be able to keep your project on schedule and within your budget.
A good general contractor is someone who can be honest with you about your budget and the realistic scope of work that will make your dream home a reality.
It’s important to choose a GC that has experience in your area, because local codes and regulations can have a big impact on the project. This is especially true if you’re building in a high-risk area, such as New York City.
In New York, there’s a lot of pressure on the construction industry and it requires a specialized skill set. The best general contractors have the training and experience to be able to navigate the high-stress environment and meet strict rules and regulations that are in place in order to maintain the health, safety and security of New York’s residents.
They also have a lot of contacts with subcontractors and will have a network of people that can help them complete projects faster and cheaper than you could. The best GCs also have an eye for detail, so they’ll be able to spot problems with craftsmanship and fix them without making excuses or wasting time.
