What to Expect from GNG

Hiring a general contractor or builder is one of the most consequential tasks you'll ever take on. The general contractor oversees the construction of the home where you and your family will live possibly for a long time. Because of this, there are a number of things you should expect a reputable builder to be able to handle, the most significant of which are outlined here.

1. Leadership Role:

The role of a general contractor necessarily involves leadership ability. A good builder has a reliable group of subcontractors that he trusts and has worked with over the years. He maintains these relationships by respecting the abilities of others and paying them on time according to a regular schedule. (top)

2. Scheduling Deliveries:

Material suppliers need plenty of notice to be able to deliver what is required for each phase of a construction project. An experienced builder knows quality suppliers, has established relationships with them and is aware of lead times for ordering materials. If he communicates well with suppliers and sees that they are paid on time, he will minimize delays on deliveries, thereby facilitating the building schedule. (top)

3. Weather:

No one can control the weather, but a creative, experienced builder will know what to do when storms halt or slow the building process. He can implement good protection solutions for newly delivered materials and components that are already in place. He will have contingency plans for time lost due to bad weather and will maintain good lines of communication with his subcontractors to keep them informed of scheduling changes. He will also let you know if those changes will affect your agreed upon building deadlines. (top)

4. Cut-off Dates:

The last day a change can be made or a product ordered without causing extra cost or delayed schedules is called a cut-off date. It is the builder's job to see that cut-off dates are set and stringently met. It is your job to meet your dates for choosing products, such as faucets and fixtures or floor coverings. Do not ignore or diminish the importance of these dates delays can cost you a lot of money and cause problems for everyone. (top)

5. Questions:

You should be able to rely on your builder to take all of your questions seriously and answer them as completely as he can. While he should not expect to explain every tiny detail about construction, he should be able to tell you how a process is progressing, or how he intends to solve any problems that come up. Increase your understanding and ability to ask informed questions by acquainting yourself with the rudiments of construction. Begin with an instructive book on building, such as those found at your local library or bookstore. (top)

6. Communication:

Trust the builder you've chosen to know his business and do it right. If you've done your homework, then you've already found the best builder. Allow him to do what he does best. Don't camp at the site, but don't completely ignore what's going on either. Keep informed and insist that the builder communicate with you or, if you are represented, through your agent. A daily phone call to the builder or agent is too much. A monthly call is probably not enough. (top)

7. Changes:

Be open about your needs and desires early in the process. While the builder may be receptive to changes during the building phase, you need to understand that making changes at some points will disrupt the process and will probably waste time and money. Establish what you want in the planning stages and communicate this at the outset. (top)

8. Inspections and Approvals:

A seasoned general contractor knows how to work with local building departments. He understands how the building departments function, what their specific requirements are, and how far in advance they must schedule inspections and approvals. The builder will also be savvy to building codes and their nuances, helping to speed the process along. (top)

9. Tolerances:

Tolerances are allowable differences in building a standard range of measurement that is considered acceptable without sacrificing structural integrity. An eight-foot wall, for instance may be as much as an inch-and-a-half out of plumb and still be acceptable. Each builder has his own idea about what he will allow within established tolerances. Discuss this with him and let him know what you expect so that there are no surprises once the home is built. (top)

10. A Win/Win Relationship:

A capable builder knows that you've committed heart and soul to your home project. It is an emotional issue one to which he will be sensitive. But remember that the project is also important to the builder. His livelihood and reputation are on the line with each home construction he undertakes. When both parties understand that the process is a team effort, the result is a satisfying experience for each. (top)