We provide construction services through out South Florida. PD&C oversees and manages large home improvement and remodeling projects, acting as your main contact and ensuring the work is done to your satisfaction. While it’s not unreasonable to think that a homeowner could act as their own General Contractor (and save on the expense), it’s a difficult role that requires real skill, expert knowledg
e and lots of time on-site. The list that follows is far from complete, but it does provide an overview of the General Contractor’s typical responsibilities:
Interaction with the Architect
If there’s an Architect or Architectural Designer involved, the General Contractor will work with that person to ensure the project is implemented as planned. The Architect and the General Contractor will typically review the plans together before any work begins. If problems arise, the architect will often look to the General Contractor to suggest workable solutions. Gathers and Evaluates Bids
Every General Contractor has a network of trusted subcontractors. That allows the “general” to gather accurate bids quickly. For every specialty (electrical, plumbing, etc.), you’ll want to get multiple bids. For each of those bids, you’ll need to walk the specialty contractor through the project and answer their questions. If one contractor shows you a different way of doing something, you’ll need to communicate that to all the other contractors and have them re-bid the job so that all the estimates are alike. And finally, you’ll need to compare and contrast the products and techniques used by each contractor to determine if all are of equal quality. Coordinates Specialty Contractors
When a General Contractor is on the job, specialty contractors are usually willing to commit to a tight schedule. If an inexperienced homeowner is handling things; however, those specialists will often request more time, which can add weeks to the completion date of your project. Plus, there could be cancellation penalty fees to pay if things get off track. Provides Skilled Labor
A good General Contractor has the skills to handle the carpentry tasks required on a project and they often end up performing much of that work. That’s why projects managed by a professional rarely run behind schedule. Answers Questions and Resolves Issues
The General Contractor has to be on-site regularly, inspecting the work as it’s completed, providing answers and resolving issues. If not, a sub-contractor may have to wait which often results in delays or mistakes that can affect the work of all the sub-contractors who follow. Arranges for Permits and the Associated Inspections
To ensure a safe community, city permits are required before you or any sub-contractor can demolish, build, enlarge, improve or convert a great many things on your property. A local General Contractor will know which tasks require permits and which don’t. He’ll be familiar with the process of applying for them and experienced in filling out the paperwork. The General Contractor will also coordinate all of the associated inspections. He will meet the city inspectors at the job site and work with them on any requested changes or adjustments.
