Many homeowners in Florida are comfortable with hiring a handyman or specialist for specific home-related jobs. This would include smaller tasks such as replacing a toilet, laying new flooring or installing a generator. Yet, for bigger jobs, such as a kitchen remodel, the work quickly becomes significantly more complicated. In projects such as this, several specialists are hired to complete the different parts of the job. However, most jobs build on one another and therefore must be scheduled in a particular order. It is the responsibility of the general contractor in Florida, to schedule each specialist in the correct order and to ensure that all jobs are completed with ease and success. Each subcontractor, from the plumber, to the flooring specialist, to the person fitting the cupboards, needs to be managed and coordinated correctly.

This is where the skills of a general contractor come to the forefront. It is their responsibility to assess the full scope of the project from the very initial meeting with the homeowner. The GC is responsible for devising the project plan to ensure its successful completion within the estimated timeframe and budget.

General contractors also serve as the primary point of contact for all subcontractors and the client. To manage this successfully, you will need to have a good understanding of all aspects of home remodeling and be able to answer any questions that the homeowner has. This includes insights into the specific types of needed building materials and the skill level and number of workers that will be required for the job. You will also need to manage the client’s expectations by providing a realistic timeline for completion as well as pulling the necessary building permits. This will ensure the project is completed safely and within specifications.

A contract is a binding legal agreement guaranteeing a service between two (or more) people. As a general contractor, when you sign a contract, you agree to fulfil the demands of that contract. In the case of a home re-model, as the general contractor, you are in-charge of the construction site. You should use the contract, that both you and the client have agreed to, as a blueprint or reference for all aspects of the job.

The goal is to meet the terms of the contract and ensure that the client is satisfied with your work. In the event of a dispute with the client, having a robust contract in place will govern the specifics and hopefully clarify any discrepancies over what was agreed upon.

Nevertheless, the contract will only be valid if your paperwork is up-to-date. This may mean pulling the relevant permits and filing for licenses, renewals and annual reports yourself. Many general contractors in Florida choose to work with Contractors Reporting Services to manage their paperwork needs. We work hard to ensure that all documents are current and in place, so that you can focus on running the day-to-day operations of your business.

Ultimately, as a general contractor in Tampa, Florida it is your job to oversee the daily operations of a project as well as operating as the point of contact for all parties. Your overarching goal is to complete the project according to the specifications of the signed contract while ensuring that all necessary paperwork is in order. This will guarantee that the contract is valid and will safeguard your business in the event of a dispute.