What Does a General Contractor Do? A Simple Guide for Homeowners

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen, adding a new room, or building your dream home from the ground up? If so, you’ve probably come across the term general contractor—but what exactly does that mean?

This article breaks down what a general contractor does, why they’re essential for successful construction projects, and how to find the right one for your next home upgrade.

🛠️ What Is a General Contractor?

A general contractor, often called a GC, is the person or business responsible for overseeing a construction project from start to finish. They act as the project manager, coordinating all aspects of the build so that it gets done on time, within budget, and up to code.

Think of a general contractor as the quarterback of your construction team. They don’t just handle the building—they manage the subcontractors, order materials, schedule inspections, and deal with the permits and paperwork.

🏗️ When Do You Need a General Contractor?

If your project involves multiple trades—like electricians, plumbers, framers, or roofers—it’s a smart idea to hire a general contractor. Here are common scenarios where you’ll need one:

Full home renovations
Room additions or garage conversions
New home construction
Kitchen or bathroom remodels
Outdoor structures (decks, patios, sheds)

Even if you’re handy, managing a large project yourself can lead to costly mistakes and delays. A qualified GC brings experience, contacts, and organization to the table.

🧰 What Does a General Contractor Do?

Here’s what a general contractor typically handles for you:

1. Project Planning and Permits

They create a project timeline, estimate costs, and secure permits required by your city or county.

2. Hiring and Managing Subcontractors

From electricians to tile installers, the GC hires the right people and ensures quality work from start to finish.

3. Scheduling and Coordination

Your general contractor schedules who comes when, so the work flows smoothly without downtime or overlap.

4. Material Procurement

They order and manage all necessary materials, ensuring everything arrives on time and meets your specifications.

5. On-Site Supervision

The GC is your eyes and ears on the ground, supervising the crew, solving problems, and keeping everything on track.

6. Inspections and Final Approvals

A good general contractor ensures the work passes city inspections and meets all safety and building codes.

📋 What Qualifications Should a General Contractor Have?

Before hiring someone, check for the following:

State license (required in most U.S. states)
Bonded and insured
Years of experience in your type of project
References from past clients
Strong communication skills

Bonus: Look for membership in professional associations like the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) or Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).

💸 How Much Does a General Contractor Charge?

General contractors typically charge either:

A percentage of the total project cost (10–20%)
A flat fee based on the project’s complexity
Hourly rates for smaller projects

For example, if your home remodel costs $50,000, your general contractor’s fee might range from $5,000 to $10,000. This includes project management, supervision, and administrative costs—not just their time.

🧾 What’s the Difference Between a General Contractor and a Subcontractor?

General Contractor = oversees the entire project, hires subcontractors, and deals directly with you.
Subcontractor = hired by the general contractor to perform specialized tasks like plumbing, electrical work, or roofing.

If you only need a single service (like rewiring your home), you can hire a subcontractor directly. But for large-scale projects, the general contractor coordinates everything so you don’t have to.

🔍 How to Choose the Right General Contractor

Finding a trustworthy GC can make or break your project. Here’s how to find the best one for your needs:

1. Get Multiple Quotes

Compare pricing, timelines, and what’s included. Cheapest isn’t always best.

2. Check Online Reviews

Look for companies with a proven track record and strong reviews on Google, Yelp, and BBB.

3. Ask for References

A solid general contractor will happily connect you with past clients.

4. Review Their Portfolio

Ask to see photos or walkthroughs of similar projects they’ve completed.

5. Verify Insurance & Licensing

Never hire an unlicensed contractor. Always confirm they carry liability and workers’ comp insurance.

🚨 Red Flags to Avoid

Be cautious if a general contractor:

Demands full payment upfront
Doesn’t provide a written contract
Can’t produce a license or proof of insurance
Won’t give you references
Tries to pressure you into quick decisions

You want someone reliable, transparent, and professional.

✅ Final Thoughts: A General Contractor Makes Construction Easier

Whether you’re building a brand-new home or upgrading your current space, a qualified general contractor can turn your vision into reality—without the stress.

From managing subcontractors to handling permits and keeping the project on schedule, their role is crucial for quality and peace of mind. Take your time, do your research, and choose a contractor you can trust.

📖 FAQs About General Contractors

Q: Is a general contractor worth it?
Yes—especially for large or complex projects. They save you time, reduce stress, and often save money by avoiding costly mistakes.

Q: What does a general contractor not do?
They typically don’t perform the actual labor themselves—they hire and oversee subcontractors for specialized work.

Q: Can I act as my own general contractor?
Yes, but it requires knowledge of building codes, scheduling, and project management. Most homeowners prefer to hire a licensed pro.

Q: How long do general contractor projects usually take?
Timelines vary, but even small renovations can take 4–8 weeks. Larger builds may take several months.