Frequently Asked Questions
What is a general contractor?
A general contractor plays a pivotal role in construction projects by overseeing and coordinating all aspects of the building process. Rather than focusing on specific tasks like flooring or plumbing, a general contractor manages the entire project from start to finish. This includes hiring and scheduling subcontractors such as plumbers, electricians, and carpenters, ensuring they work efficiently and according to plan.
For instance, at Yosemite Construction & Management, LLC, we maintain an in-house team alongside a network of trusted subcontractors. Each partner aligns with our commitment to delivering projects with honesty, diligence, and integrity. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of your construction project is handled professionally and to the highest standards.
What does a general contractor do?
A general contractor is responsible for overseeing and managing the construction of a project from beginning to end. Here are the key roles and responsibilities of a general contractor:
Project Planning and Scheduling: A general contractor starts by developing a comprehensive plan for the construction project. This includes creating schedules, timelines, and milestones to ensure that work progresses efficiently and on time.
Hiring Subcontractors: General contractors select and hire subcontractors who specialize in various aspects of construction, such as plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, etc. They evaluate subcontractors based on their skills, reliability, and pricing.
Procurement of Materials and Equipment: General contractors are responsible for procuring all necessary materials, tools, and equipment needed for the project. They ensure that materials are of the required quality and are delivered on time.
Managing Budgets and Costs: General contractors prepare cost estimates and budgets for the project. Throughout the construction process, they monitor expenses, manage costs, and make adjustments as necessary to stay within budget.
Ensuring Compliance with Regulations: General contractors must ensure that all construction activities comply with building codes, zoning laws, and other regulations. They obtain necessary permits and licenses and coordinate inspections as required.
Overseeing Construction Site: General contractors supervise the construction site and coordinate the activities of subcontractors, suppliers, and workers. They ensure that work proceeds according to plans and specifications.
Quality Control: General contractors are responsible for ensuring that the work meets quality standards and specifications. They inspect completed work, address any issues or defects, and ensure that the project meets the expectations of the client.
How does a general contractor prepare an estimate?
Our estimates are calculated based on:
- Type, quality, and quantity of materials required
- Labor required to complete the project
- Specialist subcontractors
- Overall size and scope of the project
- Duration of the project
With this information, we’ll draft an accurate quote that stays within your budget.
Are you insured?
Yes! Every member of our team and every subcontractor we employ is fully insured. We take every precaution to limit your personal liability while we’re on the job.
Are you licensed?
Yes, we are proud to be a licensed general contracting company with a broad range of certifications.
Does my construction job need a permit?
Whether your construction project requires a permit hinges on its scale and nature. To determine the specifics, we recommend reaching out to our team and consulting with one of our knowledgeable experts. In nearly all instances, we handle the application process for necessary building permits on your behalf, which stands as a significant advantage of partnering with a general contractor.
Additionally, we prioritize staying informed about the latest updates in local building codes. This commitment is integral to maintaining our reputation, licensing compliance, and ensuring the safety of our clients throughout every phase of the project.
At what point in the planning should I hire a general contractor?
The timing of hiring a general contractor varies based on the specifics of your project. For endeavors such as home additions or new residential or commercial constructions that necessitate architectural blueprints, it's advisable to initiate this process first. We possess extensive experience collaborating directly with drafters and architects, ensuring seamless integration with their technical plans.
If your project doesn't mandate architectural plans, engaging our services from the outset is optimal. Managing a project from inception to completion is markedly more straightforward and efficient than joining mid-process after another party has commenced work.
How do I find out how much my project will cost?
To discover the cost of your project, simply reach out to us and discuss your needs with one of our experts. By sitting down together to clarify the project details and establish a construction timeline, we can accurately determine the cost of our general contracting services.
We eagerly await your call!