A home remodeling general contractor is the main construction professional overseeing all aspects of a major renovation. They manage teams of subcontractors and other construction professionals, such as architects, designers, expediters or engineers, to ensure your project is completed according to plan.
They are responsible for procuring materials, obtaining permits and ensuring that your home remodeling project is done correctly.
They also work closely with you and your architect or designer to ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget.
Typically, they have a strong understanding of the building and design process and are able to guide you through it all with ease.
In addition, they have a team of in-house specialists to provide you with assistance throughout the entire remodeling process.
These experts may be involved in all areas of your project including interiors, exteriors, flooring, appliances, plumbing, electrical, painting, and other areas.
This is why it’s important to choose a contractor with the expertise you need for your particular project.
It’s also best to hire a St. Petersburg home remodeling company that is well-established and has been in business for years. This will guarantee that they have a long list of references and can offer you the most comprehensive information about their company’s background, experience, resources and success.
Ask about their certifications, licenses and membership in industry organizations.
These qualifications will show that the remodeling professional has taken the time to develop the skills they need to do a great job. They should have special certifications such as CGR (Certified Graduate Remodeler) or LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) to ensure they have the education, training and experience to complete your project successfully.
They should have workers’ compensation and liability insurance to protect you from injury or damage during the construction process.
Whether you’re working with a full-service or design-build contractor, ask about their insurance coverage.
Some contractors get by with minimal general contractor’s insurance, but most of them lack the specifics you want in your policy. This can leave you susceptible to liability and property damage, which can put you in the unfortunate position of having to pay for repair or replacement work that should have been covered by your general contractor’s insurance.
The general contractor you select should be able to offer you references, both in person and by phone. This will help you determine how reliable they are and if they will treat your home with respect.
They should also be able to offer you a bid on the project, including the estimated costs of the materials, labor and profit margins.
These costs will help you decide which contractor is right for your home remodeling project. It’s important to get multiple bids from different contractors, so you can compare them and select the best deal for you.
Make sure the general contractor has a good portfolio of previous work, especially for the type of home remodeling you’re interested in. You can find out about these projects by asking for their past work and requesting references from previous clients.