Whether you’re planning on building a room addition or a whole house, a general contractor is probably the first person you’d think to call. But a general contractor offers many more services than just building basic structures. Door installations, decks, framing and concrete slabs are just a few of the tasks that a general contractor can perform. General contractors perform a wide variety of jobs and service a number of projects with their many skills.
Many general contractors are professional business owners with a crew of laborers and skilled tradesmen. Subcontractors and specialized service professionals are on call to assist the general contractor in any duties and activities that are required by the project. A general contractor is essentially the general in an army of construction professionals.
Licensing and Education
There are several methods for obtaining a general contractors license and they vary from state to state. States also have varying levels of general contractor licensing. There are typically two types of general contractor levels of licensing. A certified general contractor is the highest level of a general contractor license that can be obtained. These general contractors are able to build just about any structure within their state. A registered general contractor license only allows a contractor to perform specific duties in a specific area of the state.
While some general contractors obtain their license through various construction schooling organizations, others can obtain a license through actual on the job training. For instance, in the state of Florida, a general contractor must complete at least one of these requirements just to be able to take the contractors exam:
- Four year construction-related degree from an accredited college (equivalent to three years’ experience) and one year proven related experience
- One year of experience as a foreman and a minimum of three years’ worth of college credits from any accredited college-level course
- One year experience as a construction worker, one year proven experience as a foreman, and two years of credits for any accredited college level courses
- Two years’ experience as a construction worker, one year experience as a foreman, and one year of credit from any accredited college level course
- Four years’ experience as a construction worker or foreman of which at least one year must have been as a foreman
- Holding an active out of state contractor’s license
Tests typically take two days and are an open book multiple choice exam. Most state contractors exams consist of three parts:
- Business and Finances
- Project Management
- Contract Administration
To become a certified state general contractor, applicants must pass all sections of the exam, meet at least one of the above experience/education requirements, and obtain workers compensation and liability insurance. Applicants must also prove financial responsibility. A good credit rating is necessary to get a certified general contractors license in most states. Even if they ace the test, without a proven history of fiscal responsibility, applicants can be turned down for a certified general contractor’s license. Many state licenses are issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
State-by-State Variations
Some states require only specialized contractors like HVAC installers or fire sprinkler mechanics to carry a license. Texas does not require building contractors to carry a license. In cases like these, a building permit must be obtained at the local level by the builder.
Other states like Arizona require general contractors to obtain a specialty license. A commercial general contractor cannot build a home without a residential general contractor’s license. A specialty license must be obtained to do any work with a price tag over $750. Besides the typical workers compensation, liability insurance and the correct license, a bond must be purchased as well.
Since each state has its own way of determining licensing for a general contractor, it’s a good idea to check licensing with a local, regional or state building organization. In states that don’t require a general contractor to carry a license, checking credentials through organizations like the Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce is in your best interest to help find the best general contractor for your construction project.
When to hire a General Contractor
A general contractor can be hired for many different jobs and projects. Because so many different laws apply to general contractors in different states, it’s always in your best interests to contact your local building department to determine whether or not you need to hire a licensed general contractor. But beyond the basic local laws that apply to construction projects, it’s up to you to find out who you need to hire for your particular building project.
Many projects that cost over $500 in materials and labor, and require the use of several subcontractors to complete the project probably require the use of a general contractor. General contractors are used to pull the permits that may be required by state and local entities.
Residential building projects can benefit from the use of a general contractor. Pulling the permits, setting subcontractor schedules and ordering materials are all basic tasks that a general contractor can provide for your residential building project. But that’s not all a general contractor is good for. A good general contractor brings the science of safety to your residential construction project, protecting workers, you and your project from injury or damages.
Commercial projects definitely need the authority and management skills that a professional general contractor can bring to the table. Juggling the many schedules of subcontractors, ensuring the correct timeline is fulfilled and materials are delivered as needed is a difficult job at best. Only an experienced and well-schooled individual can provide the control needed to complete a detailed and complex commercial construction project.
What Makes a Good General Contractor?
Since some states have different ways to deem a general contractor is worthy of the title, it’s a good idea to use these tips and techniques for finding a quality general contractor. This way, you’ll be sure to hire a professional who is perfect for your construction project.
General contractors who have these traits are more than likely to have the knowledge and experience necessary to get the job done right:
- A mix of college degrees and work experience
- Highly skilled and efficient in construction management
- Provides a cost breakdown list of materials and labor
- Well known by local building officials, loan officers and subcontractors
- Employs a crew of professional workers who follow safety regulations and building codes
- Provides proof of license, insurance, workers compensation, bonds and permits
- Hires proven and professional subcontractors
- AGC membership or other local accreditations in the construction industry
- Offers an easy to read and concise written work contract
- Follows all safety laws and regulations and uses only OSHA approved tools and construction practices.