Who Is A Contractor?

 Who Is A Contractor?

A contractor is an individual or an institution responsible for the completion of a project on behalf of the client. This individual undertakes a variety of tasks and manages a large number of people. The contractor plans and estimates the project requirements and anticipates any modifications. 

The contract specifies health and safety specifications and budgets the construction activities. The main contractor hires subcontractors to carry out specific tasks.

The contractor is responsible for coordinating with all subcontractors and ensuring they have the right qualifications and skills to perform their assigned tasks. This person tracks the entire project and makes sure it is completed on time. 

The contractor is also responsible for providing all building materials and overseeing the vendors of those materials. If the material is of poor quality or is not of a proper standard, he is responsible for exchanging it.

Role And Responsibility Of General Contractor

These responsibilities are all part of the job of the general contractor. The role of the contractor is not limited to completing projects; instead, they play an integral role in the project. The contractor can take on many roles within a project. 

Some of the major responsibilities of a general contractor are described in detail below.

1. Planning And Implementation

A contractor must obtain all necessary permits and ensure that all processes follow building codes. As the primary point of contact between the client and the various parties, a general contractor is the main point of contact. A contractor must ensure that the information it receives is accurate. 

They must update the client on the project’s progress and ensure that the contract is enforceable. A general contractor is expected to document all of the various changes that take place on a construction site.

2. Project Management (Resources and Safety)

Coordination is the responsibility of the contractor to oversee the project and coordinate the work of subcontractors. It includes gathering information, correlating it with job requirements, and distributing it on time. 

The contractor is also responsible for providing all building materials and overseeing the vendors of those materials. If the material is of poor quality or is not of a proper standard, he is responsible for exchanging it.

It involves the contractor’s responsibilities for monitoring the project’s budget and the quality of work. The contractor is also responsible for ensuring all the workers’ health and safety on the construction site. Proper safety training and SOPs must be implemented for all the workers. 

3. Project Monitoring

A general contractor is responsible for daily project activities and monitoring the progress. He is also responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and safety of the worksite. 

He must also keep his clients informed about the progress of the project and must also document every conversation and change he make on a daily basis.

As the owner of a construction project, the contractor must ensure that the project has sufficient funding to cover all payables.

This includes supplying accurate information and surveys regarding utilities. Among other responsibilities, a general contractor is responsible for coordinating all of these parties.

How To Become A General Construction Contractor 

Step by step guide on how to be a general construction contractor

Step 1 – Degree In Construction Field

If you want to become a construction contractor, you need to earn a high school diploma or equivalent and get a college degree. You can pursue a Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in construction management or project planning and management. 

A master’s degree in this field is even more valuable and will give you the opportunity to work in a more competitive field. If you already have experience in construction work, you can start with small jobs and build a reputation as a professional.

Getting a contractor license is the next step, and it requires passing exams and proving that you are legally resident in the state.

Step 2 – Work Experience And Professional Skills

A high school diploma is the first milestone in becoming a construction contractor, and you can also pursue additional educational opportunities to enhance your credentials.

An undergraduate program will prepare you for a leadership role in a construction company, and you’ll also learn about business management, communication skills, and engineering principles.

Besides earning your college degree, you can also start working on a construction site. During this time, you will gain important knowledge and experience to help you move up the ladder.

Once you are familiar with the daily operations of a construction site, you can move into supervisory roles. Then, you can work to develop a network of the best subcontractors in your city. You will also learn how to get building permits faster and easily.

Step 3 – Obtaining License From The State

The next step is to get a contractor’s license. You will need to become licensed by your state, and you can find the information on the state contractor licensing boards on the state’s website. Generally, you will need to pass a licensing exam. 

If you have no experience, you can study business management and current building codes. If you’ve completed a construction management course, you’ll also need to learn how to deal with customers and clients.

Once you have gained your license, you can start working as a contractor in the state of your choice. However, you must have a bachelor’s degree to work legally in your preferred state.

Step 4 – Brand Or Businesses Identity

Though you can increase your business identity with your good previous projects, having a bachelor’s /master’s degree will help you become more marketable and knowledgeable about construction technology, Increasing your chances of being hired as a construction contractor. 

Conclusion

It is to be noted that a high school diploma and an apprenticeship are the first two milestones for becoming a construction contractor. Once you have the necessary experience, you should take the next step in learning how to succeed.

With experience and knowledge, you can be a successful general contractor in the construction industry, Where you will have more responsibility to complete the project on behalf of clients.

As you bear project responsibilities, you need to be flexible to perform in different roles, be it in managing, financing, legal permits, networking, or anything else.

I hope the above information gives you a clear picture of the roles and responsibilities of a general contractor in construction and how to become one.