subject: Job Description Of A General Contractor [print this page] The construction industry has a lot of employment opportunities for individuals who would like a career in this field. One of the most popular jobs within this industry is that of general contractors. Most people confuse them with construction project managers, though their jobs and responsibilities are quite different.
A general contractor is responsible for overseeing all the activities in a construction site. They are also responsible for managing all the vendors and traders and ensuring a smooth flow of information between all the relevant parties. They ensure that there is effective communication throughout the building process. This is the only way to ensure that the building process progresses well and that the building is completed properly and in a timely fashion.
A general contractor is however not responsible for development of new buildings only. They are also hired in situations where a home renovation is necessary. These contractors are always very aware of the ins and outs of the industry. They can therefore give home and business owners relevant advice on what to do and where to buy the best supplies.
Contractors are always hired by clients on the advice of the architect. They must assess the documents of the project before starting their work. In renovations, they are required to fully understand the site as well as any changes that need to be made. After this, they should calculate the price of material, equipment and labor and get an estimate for the client.
Contractors can then hire subcontractors to help them in the provision of equipment and labor for the construction or renovation project. Other responsibilities that these contractors have include getting building permits, providing the workers with temporary utilities such as water at the site and managing all the personnel at the construction on renovation site. Furthermore, they should monitor all the schedules and cash flow, maintain the records and take care of disposing or recycling construction waste at the site.
General contractors are often preferred to hiring specific employees for each task. This is because they help in keeping the entire project more organized and they help one to get a specialized task force. However, before looking for a contractor, it is important for the project owner to ensure that the contractor is licensed. Each jurisdiction has its own requirements, and contractors Toronto must meet different requirements from contractors in the US.
There is no set standard for educational qualifications for one to qualify as a contractor. However, there are some project owners who like contractors who have a diploma, while others may even prefer contractors with degrees. However, individuals who would like to become contractors can get diplomas and degrees in construction science, surveying, building science or construction safety.
Experience is also a factor that most project owners consider when hiring contractors. Some may even request for references from previous clients who can speak highly about a contractors skill and professionalism. Therefore, anyone who would like to practice in this field should ensure that they have all that it takes as this is the only way they will be able to succeed in this industry.
by: kevin bourne
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