The Construction Phase / Pre-Construction Preparation
Hiring Contractors and Subcontractors
When building a new home, selecting and hiring the right contractors and subcontractors nearby is crucial for the project's success. We talked about this in Bidding and Negotiating, but it's worth revisiting some key components here if you don't already have somebody lined up. We'll also dig into their role in the process.
The general contractor, also known as the builder, is responsible for overseeing the entire construction process, while subcontractors are specialized professionals hired by the general contractor to complete specific tasks, such as plumbing, electrical work, or roofing.
The Role of the Contractor in Hiring Subcontractors
The general contractor typically takes on the responsibility of hiring and managing subcontractors. They will identify the necessary trades for your project, solicit bids, and negotiate contracts with the chosen subcontractors. The general contractor will also coordinate and schedule the subcontractors' work, ensuring that the project runs smoothly and stays on schedule.
As the homebuyer, your primary responsibility is to select a reputable general contractor who has experience managing similar projects and a proven track record of success. The general contractor will then take care of hiring and managing the subcontractors on your behalf.
What to Pay Attention to as the Homebuyer
When selecting and hiring contractors and subcontractors, there are a few things to watch out for as the homebuyer:
Reputation and experience: Make sure to research potential general contractors and check their reputation, experience, and references. You want to be confident that they can manage your project successfully and have experience working with skilled subcontractors.
Licenses and insurance: Verify that the general contractor and subcontractors hold the necessary licenses and insurance coverage required by your local jurisdiction. This will help protect you in case of accidents, injuries, or damage to your property during construction.
Communication: Choose a general contractor who is easy to communicate with and responsive to your needs. They should be open to discussing your concerns, answering questions, and providing updates on the project's progress.
Transparency in subcontractor selection: Ask your general contractor about their process for selecting subcontractors and request a list of subcontractors they plan to work with. This will allow you to research the subcontractors and ensure they meet your standards.
Contract review: Carefully review the contracts with your general contractor and subcontractors. Make sure they clearly outline the scope of work, project timeline, payment terms, and any warranties or guarantees.
By being diligent in the selection and hiring process for contractors and subcontractors, you can help ensure a smooth construction process and a successful outcome for your new home.