Frequently Asked Questions About General Contractors

To what degree is the general contractor or responsible for the conditions of the job site and streets during construction?

The job site must be maintained in a safe condition that will not cause harmful conditions for the neighbors or the general condition of the streets. Keep in mind that a construction site is a potentially dangerous site, and it is the responsibility of the general contractor to continually monitor the conditions and resolve any conflicts.

What are some guidelines to follow when trying to find a general contractor?

While hiring general contractors recommended by friends is usually reliable, never hire a general contractor without checking him or her out first. If your state has a licensing board for general contractors, call to find out if there are any outstanding complaints against that license holder. Also, call your local Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints on file.

What is a stop-work order?

A stop work order is exactly what it says - an order to stop all work and is issued for improvements for which a permit has not been issued or for work which is proceeding in conflict with the approved plans or inspections procedures.

What are building codes?

Building codes are established by local authorities to set out minimum public-safety standards for building design, construction, quality, use and occupancy, location and maintenance. There are specialized codes for plumbing, electrical and fire, which usually involve separate inspections and inspectors.

How many bids do I need for my job?

It's usually a good idea to ask at least three contractors to estimate the costs of your project. This is normally a free service and it helps prepare you for negotiating a final contract. Make sure that the bids detail the scope of the work, the types of the materials that will be used, and the total cost of the project.

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	Did You Know?
	General contractors must submit construction plans. Plan examiners determine whether the plans for the building or other structure comply with building code regulations and if they are suited to the engineering and environmental demands of the building site.