Definition in Detail
A Contractor is a party that enters into a contractual agreement to perform specific tasks or supply particular goods for a construction or development project. Contractors can range from individual professionals to large corporations and are vital in executing various elements of a construction project. The term encompasses multiple categories including:
- General Contractor: Oversees the entire construction project, managing subcontractors and ensuring the project complies with all building codes and regulations.
- Subcontractor: Hired by the general contractor to perform specialized tasks, such as electrical work or plumbing.
Examples
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Residential Subdivision Development: Abel, a property developer, hires multiple contractors for his residential subdivision project. These contractors include landscapers for designing and maintaining the outdoor environment, carpenters for building structures, plumbers for installing and maintaining water supply systems, and architects for designing the homes.
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Commercial Building Renovation: A company plans to renovate its office building. They hire a general contractor to oversee the entire renovation process. The general contractor then brings in subcontractors like HVAC installers, electricians, and painters to carry out specific parts of the renovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the role of a general contractor?
A general contractor is responsible for overseeing the entire construction project. They manage subcontractors, ensure the project adheres to regulatory standards, supervise the timeline, and coordinate various construction activities to take a project from conception to completion.
How do contractors differ from subcontractors?
The main difference is in their roles and levels of responsibility. A contractor, often referred to as a general contractor, oversees the entire project. Subcontractors are hired by the general contractor to perform specialized tasks within the project.
How can one ensure they hire a reputable contractor?
To hire a reputable contractor, check for proper licensing and insurance, request and review referrals and past work, and verify their standing with local trade associations or the Better Business Bureau.
What contracts are essential for hiring a contractor?
Key contracts include the scope of work, project timeline, payment schedule, contractor’s license, and insurance details, and any warranties or guarantees on the quality of work and materials used.
What regulatory compliance should a contractor adhere to?
Contractors must comply with local building codes, safety regulations, and zoning laws. Often, permits are required, and inspections are conducted to ensure compliance.
Related Terms with Definitions
- General Contractor: A manager responsible for overseeing the construction site, including hiring and supervising subcontractors.
- Subcontractor: A specialist hired by the general contractor to perform a specialized job within the larger project.
- Project Manager: An individual responsible for planning, executing, and finalizing projects according to deadlines and budgets, which includes acquiring resources and coordinating the efforts of team members.
Online Resources
- National Association of Home Builders
- Associated General Contractors of America
- Better Business Bureau
- American Subcontractors Association
References
- “The General Contractor Guide,” National Association of Home Builders.
- “Subcontracting in Construction: Best Practices,” American Subcontractors Association.
- “Managing Construction Projects,” by the Associated General Contractors of America.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Construction Contracting: A Practical Guide to Company Management” by S. Keoki Sears, Glenn A. Sears, and Richard H. Clough
- “Building Construction: Principles, Materials, and Systems” by Madan Mehta, Walter Scarborough, Diane Armpriest
- “Project Management in Construction” by Anthony Walker
