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If you plan on building a new home or adding on to an existing structure, you will likely need the services of a general contractor. The general contractor will oversee the entire project, from start to finish. This page will show you how to hire a general contractor.
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If you plan on building a new home or adding on to an existing structure, you will likely need the services of a general contractor. The general contractor will oversee the entire project, from start to finish. This page will show you how to hire a general contractor.
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Introduction
- General contractors are responsible for overseeing the contstruction of homes or buildings. Whether you are remodeling an existing home or building an entirely new one, you will want to consider hiring a general contractor to coordinate the process. General contractors are responsible for ordering all building supplies and hiring sub-contractors to work on your home.
- Before you hire a general contractor, draw up the plans for your project in detail.
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Step 1: Do Your Research
- Before you decide on a general contractor, you will want to get recommendations or referrals first. Ask friends, family and neighbors for names of general contractors they might have used for projects. Were they pleased with the results? Was the work performed on time and within their budget?
Step 2: Get Estimates
- Once you have compiled a list of possible general contractors to use for your project, you will want to begin getting estimates. It is generally recommended that you get at least three different estimates for the job. Talk to each contractor at length; treat this like the job interview that it is. Before you decide on a bid, check to be sure that the general contractor you wish to hire is licensed in your state.
- As each of your candidates for the job for at least three references. Check those references carefully.
Step 3: Sign an Agreement
- Once you have selected the general contractor you want for your project, it is time to sign a contract. The National Association of State Contracting Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) recommends that your written contract include:
- A detailed description of:
- Work to be done
- Material to be used
- Equipment to be installed
- A schedule of payments
- A set deadline for work to be completed
- NASCLA also recommends that you:
- Do not make a large down payment
- Make payments as work is completed
- Regularly check the progress of the work
- Not make a final payment until you are satisfied with the work
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