General Contractors in Nashville TN create project proposals and bids. They also manage on-site construction projects including hiring subcontractors, obtaining building permits and city inspections.
GCs can construct new buildings, like a posh home or an assisted living facility. They can also remodel existing properties. They take the blueprints from architects and implement them on site.
A General Contractor has extensive experience and expertise in the construction industry, which they apply to every project. They serve as the linchpin that connects all project stakeholders and ensures efficient resource allocation, timely execution, and compliance with regulations. They are also constantly evolving with the industry, which allows them to bring in innovations that can save clients money and time.
Hiring subcontractors for specialized tasks is another aspect of GCs’ responsibilities. They coordinate with subcontractors and supervise work to ensure it meets the specifications in the contract. This can include ensuring that the electrical wiring is up to code, drywall is installed correctly, and plumbing work is complete.
The jobsite itself is a vital part of the construction process, so GCs are responsible for site preparation. This includes land clearing, grading, and utility setup. In addition, they manage the delivery of materials, equipment, and workers. Lastly, they ensure that the construction site meets zoning laws and building codes.
Project management is a vital role for GCs, and they are experienced in working with architects, engineers, consultants, and specialists. They collaborate with these individuals during the planning and preconstruction phases to make sure that the build is completed according to the architect’s plans and specifications.
Things don’t always go as planned, but good GCs are problem-solvers who will adapt to change and adjust schedules and workflows. This may include handling change orders, scheduling re-dos, or negotiating with vendors for better pricing on materials.
GCs will work with the architect to review plans and specifications, making changes as needed. This prevents confusion and misunderstandings that can cause problems down the road. They also monitor progress daily and keep their clients updated on a regular basis.
GCs are familiar with local zoning laws and building codes, which reduces the risk of costly violations. They know where to source the best building materials at the most competitive prices and are experienced in estimating costs for large projects. They can also recommend energy-efficient options to help save on utility costs in the long run. Moreover, they can provide guidance on budgeting, permitting requirements, and insurance needs.
They Have an Experienced Team
GCs have a team of experts who help them complete construction projects. From remodeling residential houses to building skyscrapers, they manage every aspect of the work. This includes hiring specialists with the right knowledge and skills for the job, acquiring licenses based on state regulations and getting estimate bid from suppliers or vendors. They also ensure that the project adheres to zoning laws and building codes. In addition to these, a general contractor oversees all the nuances of the project and ensures that work is performed smoothly and efficiently.
Most GCs gain their expertise through formal education and on-the-job experience. They are also well-versed in construction laws and best practices. Moreover, they possess the ability to handle budgeting and financial matters. This enables them to develop a construction plan that is aligned with client expectations, goals and budgets.
Additionally, they can identify the risks associated with construction and implement strategies to mitigate them. This is especially useful in a new construction where there are more unknowns and variables. They can also anticipate challenges and adapt their strategy accordingly to save time and resources.
It’s essential for a GC to have an experienced team to manage the work and ensure it is completed on time and within the set budget. Finding the right team for every element of a construction project is a task that involves a lot of interviewing, price comparison and other research. GCs already have a list of trusted subcontractors that they have worked with in the past and this makes it easier for them to streamline the process.
Managing a construction project isn’t easy. It requires juggling tasks and ensuring that all parties are on the same page. In addition, it isn’t uncommon for unforeseen issues to arise.
For instance, the weather can throw a wrench in plans. A general contractor should be able to address this challenge quickly by rescheduling work and providing alternative plans. Similarly, supply struggles can cause delays if they are not resolved in a timely manner.
As a central point of communication, GCs are often held liable for construction related issues. This is especially true when they fail to vet subcontractors adequately, supervise them properly, or act on safety concerns at the construction site.
They Manage the Budget
Many construction projects suffer from cost overruns, but a good general contractor can help prevent these issues through careful project planning and contingency planning. For example, a general contractor will set aside funds to cover the costs of unexpected expenses like weather delays, supply chain disruptions, or unexpected material price hikes. GCs are also skilled in value engineering, a process that reduces project costs without sacrificing quality or functionality.
They are familiar with local regulations and building codes, and they have strong connections to vendors and subcontractors who can provide quality products and experienced workers at competitive prices. A good GC will make sure that all the work on your new commercial renovation is done to code and meets the specifications of the design plans. Moreover, they will ensure that all subcontractors and vendors are properly scheduled and that their services are delivered on time.
Budgeting is another important role of a general contractor, and they are adept at managing project timelines and ensuring that all budget elements are in place. They will work with the architect and other project stakeholders to develop realistic critical path schedules that will meet your project’s deliverables, and they will monitor the progress of each phase of work against these timelines to ensure the project stays on track.
Throughout the project, they will manage and track expenditures, providing updates to all stakeholders and ensuring that all expenses are tracked accurately. They will review and approve invoices from vendors, subcontractors, and specialty contractors. They will also manage the construction site and ensure that all safety protocols are followed on-site.
A major challenge for GCs is cash flow management, as project completion often outpaces income and leads to cash shortages. A good GC will mitigate these risks by keeping their financial data accurate and streamlined with the right tools. By reducing manual processes, simplifying and automating data entry, and centralizing their budget on one platform with real-time dashboards, they will improve their ability to forecast accurately, spot potential risks quickly, and manage project costs effectively. This can lead to fewer payment disputes, delays, and financial strain that threaten project success.
They Manage the Schedule
GCs are responsible for project management and oversight, which is an essential part of the construction process. They act as the key linchpin in the construction project, serving as the point of communication between architects, engineers, and specialty contractors (also known as subcontractors).
They also help to manage the overall budget by establishing a baseline schedule for how the build will occur. This helps to keep all parties aligned and prevents confusion over how a particular aspect of the build will take place, which can have major implications on timelines if not handled correctly.
In addition to coordinating with subcontractors, GCs also collaborate with the architect to ensure that the build meets the client’s specifications and adheres to industry standards. They are in charge of acquiring the necessary permits, hiring the right team of professionals for each task, and ensuring that all work on-site is completed by certified individuals.
Because the building process can be unpredictable, it’s essential for a general contractor to plan for unexpected issues and reroute resources accordingly. They are often able to find creative solutions that save time and money, while still meeting deadlines.
For example, during a recent road project, a general contractor, PENTA, needed to coordinate with the city council, multiple casinos along the path, police and fire departments, and regional transportation commissions. In order to make sure that everyone was on the same page, PENTA used a shared construction platform that kept all stakeholders updated and informed.
General contractors are also tasked with overseeing the quality of construction on-site, and they regularly inspect projects to ensure that all work is done properly. They are also in charge of selecting qualified subcontractors, drafting bids, and negotiating contracts. They are also responsible for resolving any conflicts that arise during the construction process.
Managing large-scale construction and extensive home remodels requires a lot of planning, coordination, and expert knowledge of the latest construction techniques and regulations. Licensed general contractors are uniquely qualified to tackle these types of projects and provide the best value for clients. Considering the numerous benefits that they bring to a construction project, it’s no wonder why many people prefer to hire one than handle the build themselves.