If you try searching for general contractors in your area, quite a few would probably come up. For the success of the project, it’s important to know not every general contractor is qualified. Some contractors might know how to get the work done, but it might not be the correct and legal way of doing things. As a homeowner, you most likely don’t know building codes, building permits and installation techniques as in-depth as you need to for home renovation projects, which is where the help of a general contractor comes in. Here is some key information a good general contractor will know.
Permit process
Having a general contractor that knows the permit process inside out will save you tons of money and time during the building development and even down the road. A building permit is an official approval issued by the government that allows your contractor to proceed with the process. The main purpose is to ensure that your home building plans are in ordinance with local standards for land use, zoning and construction. It’s not unusual to come across a contractor that dodges the building permit process. Those who choose to go against the permit process do so to get around the expense of the permit, or because they think the taxes will increase if improvements are officially compiled.
A general contractor that is unfamiliar with the building process can cost you time and money in the long run. When you work with a general contractor that is familiar with the building permit process, everything will be sped up, and you won’t have any risks such as fines for failing to file a building permit.
Installation techniques
General contractors don’t usually install projects, but it’s important that they have a basic understanding of the various installation techniques. The subcontractors usually do all the installations, but the general contractor does have a say in how the subcontractors go about their work. This is important for when it comes time to plan and manage the project, and it will result in a safe, well executed building development.
Utilization of good subcontractors
Your general contractor is the manager for your entire project, but they are in charge of an additional team, known as subcontractors. When it comes to hiring a general contractor, you want to trust that they manage their subcontractors well and the subcontractors are trustworthy, reliable and deliver great work. A good contractor will have good relationships with these teams. This good relationship will be an advantage to your project because the subcontractors know what the general contractor expects, that they will get paid on time, and that the job site has been prepared for the work they need to do when they show up.
Keep in mind that your general contractors generally select the team of subcontractors. Since they are the ones completing the work, you want to know that the general contractor has the knowledge and experience to choose the best people out there for your job.
Expanded knowledge of city and state building codes
Many homeowners believe their renovation is so minor that they don’t need any sort of approval. However, you’d be surprised at what jobs actually require approvals from your local government. Here are some home renovations that typically fall into this category.
· Fencing installation and repairs
· Window installations
· Plumbing work
· Electrical work
· Structural changes
· HVAC maintenance and installation
· Additions of a home or shed
When it comes to your home renovation project, you don’t want to have to worry whether or not you have the proper approvals. Hiring a general contractor who understands city and state building codes can help you avoid any complications. Not having approvals can result in fines or other issues when it comes time to sell your home. In some cases, the state will request that you destroy any work that is done. Taking the time to look into building codes can seem like a burden in the moment, but if avoided, it can turn into a bigger nightmare down the road.
Bidding negotiation
For the homeowner, the bidding is perhaps one of the most important factors of the building process because it determines what you will be paying for the project. You want to find a general contractor that finds an affordable option but doesn’t choose the lowest price. Naturally, people tend to want to go for the cheapest option,e but in home building and renovations, you get what you pay for. A good general contractor will have integrity when it comes to bidding.
How to resolve issues
It’s not uncommon to encounter issues during the building process. The project could take longer than expected or builders could encounter an unexpected obstacles. Your general contractor should be proactive when it comes to addressing issues during your project. In all reality, it’s the general contractor’s job to find a solution. A good one will be quick to determine the problem and find a resolution. This will ensure your project runs smoothly and as on time as possible. Having a contractor who runs from issues can turn into a nightmare that you don’t want to handle!
How to find a good general contractor
Now that you know some of the information that a good general contractor should know, it’s time to start qualifying leads on this important position as you look to start or complete your home renovation project. Prior to hiring a general contractor, it’s important to ask some questions. Consider asking these to help qualify your general contractor.
· Do you value price or quality?
· How do you choose your subcontractors?
· How many of the projects that you have done required building permits?
· How do you determine how to install?
Homeowners put a lot of money into their renovations, so it’s important to not cut corners when it comes to hiring a general contractor. Looking for one in Gwinnett, Forsyth, Hall or Barrow Counties, or the Lake Lanier, Braselton or Hamilton Mill areas? Reach out to our team at Legacy Renovations to get started!
