There are no set educational qualifications to become a general contractor, though most employers prefer a bachelor’s degree. Some general contractors obtain bachelor’s degrees in construction science, building science, surveying, construction safety, or other disciplines. General contractors often start out as construction workers. While gaining work experience, they learn about different aspects of construction, including masonry, carpentry,framing, and plumbing. Aspiring general contractors communicate […]

Businesses may choose to hire contractors over employees for a variety of reasons. For legal reasons it can be easier to hire and to release a contractor compared to a permanent employee. Additionally, business owners may choose to hire contractors because of economic uncertainty or other factors that make hiring employees impractical. Other reasons include […]

Experience in the construction industry as well as references from customers, business partners, or former employers are demanded. Some states require candidates to provide proof of financing to own their own general contracting firm. General contractors often run their own business. They hire subcontractors to complete specialized construction work and may manage a team of […]

A property owner or real estate developer develops a program of their needs and select a site (often with an architect). The architect assembles a design team of consulting engineers and other experts to design the building and specify the building systems. Today contractors frequently participate on the design team by providing pre-design services such as providing estimations […]