Key takeaways:
If you’re curious about what a general contractor does, this article explains their core responsibilities and how to pursue this career path.
- General contractors manage entire construction projects. They manage the planning, coordination, and completion of residential or commercial builds, ensuring timelines, budgets, and standards are met.
- They handle every stage of the project. Responsibilities include creating estimates, securing permits, hiring subcontractors, overseeing site work, final inspections, and ensuring client satisfaction.
- Different types of general contractors exist. Some focus on residential projects, others on large commercial jobs, and some specialize in a niche like renovations or green building.
- Becoming a general contractor requires education, experience, and licensing. Most start with hands-on construction experience and must obtain the proper licenses, which vary by location.
- Licensing requirements differ based on region. The U.S., Canada, UK, and Australia all have different rules and processes for contractor licenses, usually to ensure safety and accountability standards.
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Thinking about a career as a general contractor? This career path puts you in charge of building projects from start to finish. You’ll manage schedules, budgets, subcontractors, and clients on both residential and commercial jobs.
This article breaks down what general contractors do, how to get started, and the skills you’ll need to succeed.
What is a general contractor?
A general contractor is the main person or company responsible for managing a construction project from start to finish. Their job is to make sure the project is finished on time, within budget, and according to specifications and building codes.
General contractors usually hire and coordinate subcontractors, like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. They also handle scheduling, building permits, inspections, and client communication.
General contractors can work in both residential and commercial construction.
- In residential projects, contractors build new homes, remodel kitchens, or add extensions.
- In commercial projects, contractors manage office buildings, retail spaces, restaurants, or larger developments.
Whether residential or commercial, the general contractor is the central point of contact who makes sure all parts of the construction process come together.
General contractor responsibilities
A general contractor’s role covers every stage of a construction project. Their responsibilities begin well before any work starts, continue throughout the building process, and wrap up after the project is finished.
Understanding these responsibilities helps explain why general contractors are essential for keeping a project organized. Here’s a closer look at what a general contractor typically handles before, during, and after a project:
Before the project starts
- Reviewing project plans, specifications, and drawings with an architect or engineer
- Preparing cost estimates and budgets
- Creating a construction schedule and timeline
- Securing necessary building permits and licenses
- Hiring and negotiating with subcontractors and vendors
- Planning for the necessary tools, equipment, and personnel
- Coordinating insurance and safety requirements
During the project
- Supervising subcontractors and on-site crews
- Managing the construction schedule and adjusting as needed
- Ordering and tracking materials and equipment
- Communicating with the client about progress and updates
After project completion
- Ensuring all construction waste is removed from the job site
- Completing final inspections and walk-throughs with the client
- Addressing punch list items (repairs or small corrections)
- Submitting project documentation, warranties, and manuals
- Closing out permits and regulatory compliance requirements
- Collecting final payments and resolving outstanding invoices
- Making sure the client is satisfied with the finished project
Different types of general contractors
Not all general contractors do the same kind of construction work. Some focus on smaller projects, while others handle larger, more complex builds. The main types of general contractors include:
- Residential General Contractors: These contractors manage projects for homeowners. Their work may include building new houses, remodeling kitchens or bathrooms, adding home extensions, or handling other improvements on residential properties.
- Commercial General Contractors: This type of general contractor takes on larger projects such as office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, warehouses, or multi-unit developments. Commercial projects often require more coordination, permits, and compliance with extra regulations.
- Specialty General Contractors: Some general contractors specialize in a particular type of project, like renovations, green building, or industrial construction. While they still manage subcontractors, their experience is focused on a specific niche.
The type of general contractor a client needs depends on the size and scope of the project. Each type brings its own expertise to make sure construction is completed correctly and efficiently.
How to become a general contractor
Becoming a general contractor requires a mix of education, experience, licensing, and business skills. The exact path can vary depending on where you live, but the general steps include:
1. Start with education. Many general contractors have a high school diploma or GED. You’ll be even more competitive if you have a degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field.
2. Gain construction experience. Work in a construction industry sub-trade like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC. Learning hands-on skills helps you understand how projects run and how different trades work together.
3. Get licensed. Some areas require you to be a licensed general contractor before you can take on certain projects. Licensing involves proving work experience, passing an exam, and providing insurance or bonding. Check local regulations since they vary by state, province, or country. For example:
- A general contractor license in Texas isn’t required unless you’re doing specialty work like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
- Florida requires a general contractor license for most projects. There are several different license types available with different requirements for each.
4. Maintain your skills. The construction and contracting industry is always changing. Keep up to date on building codes, safety regulations, and construction trends.
5. Start a contractor business. Many general contractors start their own companies after several years in the industry. Construction jobs can be profitable and rewarding, as long as you’re confident you can provide a quality product and a great customer experience.
Becoming a general contractor takes time and effort, but it can lead to a career where you manage projects, coordinate workers, and deliver outstanding construction for residential and commercial clients.
General contractor licensing
Becoming a general contractor usually requires a license to ensure you meet minimum standards for safety, knowledge, and accountability.
Licensing rules can change from one region to another, even within the same country. Check with your local licensing authority or government website to find the exact requirements where you plan to work.
Here are some guidelines around general contractor licensing, depending on your location:
United States
In the U.S., contractor licensing is handled at the state, city, or county level. For example, you’ll need a license for almost all general contracting work in California, while licensing requirements in New York vary by city.
Some states require a general contractor license for almost any paid construction work, while others only require it for larger projects above a certain dollar amount.
Many licensing processes include an application, proof of journeyman or supervisory experience, an exam, a criminal background check, and insurance or bonding requirements.
Canada
In Canada, contractor licensing requirements are set by provinces and municipalities. For example, you don’t need a general contractor’s license in Ontario, but all new home builders and sellers require certification with the HCRA.
Larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver may require additional permits or trade certifications. In some areas, you will need a business license and must register with a provincial authority.
United Kingdom
In the UK, there is no national licensing system for general contractors. Instead, contractors need to register their business with Companies House. Some trades, like gas fitting, require registrations or certifications for some types of work.
To legally offer contracting services, you’ll need to have insurance and register for taxes with HM Revenue and Customs. If you provide sub-trade services, you might need specific qualifications and registrations, too.
Australia
In Australia, licensing is managed by each state and territory. Most areas require a building or contractor license to take on residential or commercial projects.
For example, you’ll need a contractor license for building work that’s valued over $3,300 in Queensland, or $5,000 in New South Wales.
Licensing requirements can include a formal qualification (such as a Certificate IV in Building and Construction), as well as proof of experience, financial capacity, and insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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In the U.S., the term “general contractor” is associated with construction managers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for a construction manager is $106,980 a year, or $51.43/hour.
You can expect to earn anywhere from $65,160 to over $176,990. Your exact wage will depend on your location, experience level, and local demand for contractor services. -
A successful contractor can effectively manage people, processes, and client expectations. You’ll need these qualities to become a good general contractor:
• Project management: You’ll be responsible for organizing schedules, budgets, subcontractors, and project phases to keep everything on track.
• Communication: You’ll be communicating with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to share expectations and keep everyone up to date. (A general contracting CRM can help with that!)
• Trade knowledge: Since you’re working with subcontractors, you’ll need to know the basics of each trade (e.g., electrical, plumbing, carpentry, HVAC) to ensure quality work. The more expertise you have, the better.
• Attention to detail: A good eye for detail helps you notice potential issues early and avoid unnecessary project delays.
• Problem solving: Every construction project runs into problems, from design changes to supply shortages. The ability to make quick, practical decisions will keep the project moving forward.
• Financial management: Project estimates, budgets, invoices, and payments are essential pieces of a successful business. You’ll need to know your numbers and keep a close eye on your finances to make money in construction.
General contractor software like Jobber makes it easy to be a good contractor. It helps you estimate projects, manage your schedule, communicate with clients, send invoices, and get paid for your work. -
A subcontractor is a specialized worker or company hired by the general contractor (also known as the prime contractor) to complete specific parts of a construction project.
Subcontractors focus on one trade or task, while the general contractor manages the overall project and coordinates how all the pieces fit together. A subcontractor could be responsible for a technical specialty like:
• Electrical: Installing wiring, lighting, and power systems
• Plumbing: Setting up water lines, fixtures, and drainage
• HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system installation
• Carpentry: Framing walls, building structures, or custom woodwork
• Roofing: Installing, maintaining, or repairing roofs
• Masonry: Working with materials like brick, stone, or concrete
• Drywall: Installing and taping drywall to create interior walls
• Painting: Finishing interior walls and ceilings
• Flooring: Laying down interior tile, carpet, hardwood, stone, or other materials -
A commercial general contractor manages construction projects for businesses rather than private homeowners. They’re responsible for keeping the project on time, on budget, and in compliance with codes and client expectations.
The responsibilities of a commercial general contractor can include:
• Planning and overseeing construction work on projects like office buildings, retail stores, schools, and restaurants
• Reviewing architectural plans and ensuring the design matches the specifications
• Hiring and coordinating workers, including subcontractors like plumbing and HVAC
• Ensuring compliance with local regulations and safety standards
• Communicating with the client, subcontractors, and vendors
• Maintaining a safe job environment for all workers