General contractors are the “big picture” thinkers. They work with you through the entire project, from the start to finish. By contrast, subcontractors or Specialty contractors come and go. They specialize in certain areas of the construction process, like large equipment operation, concrete formulation, plumbing, electricity and carpentry. They enter a project to do a particular task and leave when that task is finished.

A general contractor is responsible for managing an entire job from start to finish. They provide estimates, pull permits, and source materials, plumbers and electricians all while providing liability insurance for the project at hand.  A general contractor must be licensed in most jurisdictions and to be knowledgeable in many areas such as masonry, building framing, roofing, finished work and more.