General Contractor: What They Do, How to Choose, and What You Need to Know

When you’re building or renovating a home or commercial space, the general contractor, the person or company responsible for managing the entire construction process from permits to final walkthrough. Also known as a construction manager, it’s their job to coordinate everything—from electricians to roofers—so your project actually gets done on time and within budget. You might think hiring a general contractor is just about finding someone with tools, but it’s really about trusting someone to handle the chaos behind the scenes. A good one doesn’t just show up with a hammer—they know building codes, manage schedules, order materials, and fix problems before they become disasters.

Not all contractors are the same. Some specialize in residential construction, projects like home additions, kitchens, or full rebuilds for private owners. Others focus on commercial construction, larger-scale work like offices, retail spaces, or warehouses with stricter codes and bigger teams. The type you need depends on your project. If you’re building a house, you want someone who’s handled 20+ homes—not just one office building. And if you’re doing a commercial project, don’t hire someone who only does bathrooms in suburban homes. Experience matters, and so does licensing. In most places, a contractor licensing, a legal requirement that proves a contractor has passed exams, carries insurance, and follows state regulations isn’t optional—it’s your first line of defense against scams and shoddy work.

Choosing the right general contractor isn’t about picking the cheapest bid. It’s about finding someone who communicates clearly, shows you past work, and doesn’t dodge questions about insurance or permits. You’ll find posts here that break down how to verify licenses, what red flags to spot in quotes, and why some contractors disappear after getting a deposit. There are guides on what to ask during interviews, how to compare bids fairly, and even how to handle delays or changes without getting ripped off. Whether you’re planning a small renovation or a full new build, the right contractor can save you thousands in mistakes—and months of stress.

Below, you’ll find real-world advice from people who’ve been through it: how to avoid mold in new builds, why foundation repairs can backfire, what costs really add up in a 2,000 sq ft home, and how to tell if your contractor is cutting corners. These aren’t theory pieces—they’re lessons learned on job sites, in courtrooms, and in homes where things went wrong. You don’t need to be an expert to use this information. You just need to know what to look for before you sign anything.