You may not know that there are important differences between general and remodeling contractors. As long as you get your project done on budget and on time, it may not matter. However, it can be useful to understand the differences in order to get the biggest benefits out of the contractor you hire.
What Do General Contractors Do?
A general contractor will need to have a strong background in several kinds of skills, because general contractors may take on an almost unlimited variety of projects. Your general contractor may help you with everything from minor projects to a brand new custom house. While they can handle building custom homes, general contractors also frequently take on smaller tasks, utilizing their skills in a wide variety of areas. Because they take on so many responsibilities, general contractors need to have strong skills in carpentry, plumbing, and electricity. If you need more than 2 specialties, you will almost always need a general contractor.
What Do Remodeling Contractors Do?
You only need a remodeling contractor if you already have a home and want to make some changes. If you are thinking of using a remodeling contractor, find out what skills and licenses they hold. San Diego Home Remodelers may be general contractors who specialize in remodeling projects, but they also may simply be handymen who take on different kinds of jobs. If your project costs more than $500 or includes more than one specialty, you will probably have better luck using a general contractor who is qualified to do all the tasks involved to complete the job successfully.
So What Is the Difference Between General Contractors and Remodeling Contractors?
One of the most important differences is that, in the state of California, there is no legal classification of what it means to be a remodeling contractor. In most cases, the people holding themselves out as remodeling contractors are actually generally contractors who specialize in remodeling projects. That means that they will have the qualifications you need to get the project done and that they are backed by licensing and insurance.
How to Choose the Best Contractor for Your Situation
It may seem overwhelming when you are trying to find the right people to handle your project. You may have already considered factors such as:
- Does the contractor have a good reputation?
- Is this contractor licensed?
- Do I know someone who has had work done by this contractor and is very happy with the result?
- Are there pictures of completed projects and testimonials online?
If you are considering whether to use a remodeling contractor, you also need to consider these questions:
- Is the project going to cost more than $500?
- How many specialties are involved?
- Will my contractor have the necessary licensing and insurance?
- Do I want to have to deal with multiple contractors because my remodeling contractor can’t do everything I need?
If there are multiple contractors involved, it may be difficult to coordinate all the tasks. One general contractor already has the resources to handle multiple tasks, even if it means working with other trusted partners. Any construction project can cause headaches, even if everything goes well, and it only adds to your stress if you have to deal with multiple contractors. A general contractor will take care of all that and make sure your project stays on track.
Making Your Decision
The contractor you choose to handle your home project could make a big difference in how the job gets done. This is not something you want to be dealing later because of problems with insurance or mistakes in the work. You should never hesitate to ask any questions if you are interviewing a new home builder or a company for a home remodeling project. Don’t be shy when you ask whether there is insurance and how that could affect you.
At DM Building, we understand how stressful it can be to trust strangers with your home. We treat every customer with the same respect we would use with our own friends and family. If you are thinking of doing a home project, big or small, feel free to give us a call today.
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