A general contractor is just as the name implies—general. That’s why it’s best to hire a general contractor who is well versed in your particular construction project. If you’re building a new home, remodeling an old one or adding on a new addition, it’s in your best interests to hire a residential contractor for your project. Use this guide to residential contractors to help you get the best general contractor for your construction project.
State Requirements
Since each state has different rules about residential general contractors, it’s best to contact your local building department to find out what type of licensed builder you need to complete your construction project. For instance, in Arizona, a residential contractor license means that the license holder can only build residential buildings. This can really help to narrow down the field of general contractors when you’re choosing a builder. Other states like Texas require only a business license to be able to build a new home. In cases like this it’s a good idea to contact the Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce to help find a reliable local residential contractor.
Licensing and Insurance
Some states have different levels of residential contractor licenses. A state “A” license holder can build any residential structure anywhere in the state, while a state “B” license holder is limited to certain sized structures and a limited building area—usually a county or tri-county area. Always check your prospective residential contractor’s license number with the local building department to ensure they have the right license to do the work.
Insurance is a must have for any builder. Builders risk, liability and workers compensation insurance are all must haves when it comes to building any structure. The right insurance protects you as the homeowner against any claims from negligence, theft, damages or injuries. Most states require that a liability insurance certificate be displayed on the jobsite at all times. Some states even go as far as to prevent any builder without liability insurance from accessing the jobsite with workers or materials until liability insurance certificates have been proven to building officials.
References
Finding the right residential contractor for your building project is all about the right references. At least three contactable references should be given to the homeowner to prove that their work is up to your standards. But besides just pleasing customers and doing good work, a residential contractor should do the right work. A good general contractor might have built the mall downtown, but do they have the experience to build a home? Receiving references from past customers who have had construction projects similar to yours is a good way to ensure your prospective builder is a perfect fit for your particular construction project.
Niche Builders
Niche builders are those who work on specific projects like remodeling or renovating. Since residential general contractors have a wide array of projects they are allowed to work on, it’s in your best interests to find a residential contractor who specializes in your particular building niche. For instance, a residential contractor who specializes in new home construction might not be the best builder to complete your new kitchen addition. Look for a residential contractor who does the majority of their work on projects similar to yours.
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