When it is time to remodel a house, every homeowner has a desire to save money. One way to do this is to take some tasks on yourself. For many, the first option is to consider acting as their own general contractor. While this might seem like a simple and cost effective solution, first appearances can be deceiving.
What Does Being Your Own Contractor Entail?
If you are considering taking on the role of general contractor for your home renovation, it is important to understand what tasks will be included in your job description. In basic terms, general contractors oversee the entire project from start to finish. While general contractors do not pound nails, install pluming or rewire electrical work, they do handle the day to day tasks of coordinating deliveries, maintaining a strict timeline, requesting permits and overseeing inspections.
So now that you understand what a general contractor does, you are probably thinking “no problem, that all sounds easy enough”, but be careful not to act too fast. First, consider all that goes on behind the scenes when a home is renovated. Permits are pulled, inspections are ordered and zoning requirements are checked multiple times. If you are a novice, you might be unaware of some of these requirements, but failing to follow them to the letter could cost you time, money and even the ability to sell your home in the future.
Working With Sub-contractors
In your role as general contractor, you will also work with a lot of sub-contractors. That involves finding reputable contractors who will show up on time for the job, negotiating the cost of services and getting on their schedules so your job is actually completed. A good knowledge base in this area can make the difference between hiring a sub-contractor who shows up when expected and one who cannot be reached for weeks. Coordinating multiple sub-contractors effectively also allows them to work efficiently and saves time and money. Many do-it-yourself enthusiasts make the mistake of hiring unskilled sub-contractors and creating scheduling problems. Mistakes like booking the drywall guy before the plumber has time to finish or the electrician when demolition is not yet complete lead to confusing schedule changes, paying for sub-contractor during downtime or pushing the crew to rush through various stages of the renovation. The end result is increased stress, unnecessary mistakes, further delays and escalating costs for the project.
Another important responsibility for general contractors is to purchase and manage the delivery of materials. The costs of construction materials vary greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer, and so does the quality. Professional general contractors know who to purchase from, and they often negotiate mass buying discounts with the best supply houses that can save homeowners hundreds or thousands of dollars. It takes a lot of time and effort to find these discounts, and they are seldom made available to one-time buyers.
Stress Free Renovations
When lumber, insulation, drywall, fixtures, appliances, tile or hardwood flooring is ordered, scheduling delivery is the next task. Professional general contractors have strong relationships with materials suppliers, and this creates a sense of accountability that helps to ensure the right materials arrive in perfect condition and on-time. If the wrong item is delivered, materials warehouses will often rush deliver the right items for a general contractor who brings them a lot of business. One time buyers may not be extended the same courtesy, and even if it is available, they may not know to ask for it.
If you are looking to experience managing your home renovation but want to avoid all the hassles and expenses that come with acting as your own general contractor, call on the experts at Alair Homes Edmonton. Our promise to you is 100-transparency, and that means you can stay involved every step of the way while we assist you with all the important details that will make or break your renovation. Give us a call to learn more and schedule your free, no obligation consultation.