General Contractor
A professional who manages and coordinates a renovation or construction project, hiring and overseeing subcontractors, sourcing materials, and ensuring work is completed to specification.
A general contractor (GC) — called a builder in the UK — is the person or company you hire to manage your renovation project from start to finish. They’re your main point of contact and are responsible for coordinating all the different trades (electricians, plumbers, tilers, plasterers) needed to complete the work.
What does a general contractor do?
- Project management — scheduling trades, ordering materials, managing the timeline
- Quality control — ensuring all work meets agreed standards and building regulations
- Problem solving — dealing with unexpected issues that arise during construction
- Coordination — making sure different trades show up in the right order
- Compliance — ensuring work meets local building codes and regulations
General contractor vs. subcontractor
A general contractor manages the overall project and typically hires subcontractors — specialists in specific trades like plumbing, electrical, or tiling — to carry out the work. Some general contractors also do hands-on work themselves, particularly on smaller projects.
How to choose a general contractor
Look for relevant experience, proper insurance, verifiable references, and clear communication. Always get a detailed written quotation and a contract before work begins.