Finding the right general contractor in the Philippines can make difference to your business. Whether it’s a renovation or a commercial construction, you need a professional with unique qualities. Learn in this blog the 9 essential qualities to look for when hiring a general contractor.
Working with a contractor who understands your unique challenges leads to a successful construction process. But, with so many contractors to choose from, it’s important to narrow down your options by considering such qualities. From communication skills to industry experience, these will help you identify the best contractor for your needs.
But before listing down the qualities, let us first identify the fundamentals.
What is a contractor?
A contractor is a professional who manages and executes specialized tasks for a construction project. Contractors ensure the project is completed on time, stays within budget, and meets the client’s objectives. The two types of contractor roles are general contractor and specialized contractor.
What is a general contractor?
GENERAL CONTRACTOR DEFINITION
Also called the prime contractor, they are solely responsible for the construction process from beginning to end. This includes producing high-quality construction work, processing building permits, and delegating specific tasks to subcontractors.
What is Specialty Contractor?
Also known as a subcontractor, a specialty contractor focuses on a specific type of construction service. This includes the following:
Electrical
Plumbing
HVAC technicians
Roofing
Carpentry
Painting
In addition, specialty contractors handle parts of construction projects that need special skills and training for specific industries.
Let us be your Service Contracting Partner for Construction Projects!
TOTC Inc. is committed to providing the best construction services and expertise to ensure the success of your business.
Now that we know the basic terms, let’s look at the top 10 qualities to consider when hiring a general contractor.
9 Qualities of a Good General Contractor
1. Strong Industry Knowledge
Industry knowledge comes from years of experience and is comprised of many different aspects. However, they all focus on one main goal – creating an extensive and feasible construction plan. This involves timeline, budgeting, and resource allocation. Following this process ensures the construction project aligns with the client’s goals and objectives.
2. Proven Experience in Local Projects
More than being a construction proactive leader, a general contractor must understand the challenges of building in a tropical country. Climate change produces hazards that can impact contractor work. From tropical cyclones to chronic disruptions, including floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and heat waves.
FLOODS
EARTHQUAKE
VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS
HEAT WAVES
3. Proper Licenses and Certifications
Licensed general contractors follow a specialized and systematic approach to ensure they finish the work safely and on time. They carefully develop the project’s procedure. Remember, they need to show a legal agreement before starting the construction work.
4. Proficient Knowledge in Local Building Codes
Before starting a construction project, general contractors strictly adhere to the mandated regulations in the prime location where the construction will take place. They obtain all necessary permits and licensing requirements to guarantee legal operations and alignment with local safety standards.
5. Transparent Pricing A recent
A recent study shows that 39% of clients’ main source of distress when working with a general contractor is “unexpected charges” These unforeseen expenses rub the trust and reputation that can ultimately affect the project. General contractors address these financial challenges directly by implementing actionable strategies that promote cost transparency, foster trust, and deliver positive client experiences.
6. Proper Licenses and Certifications
Licensed general contractors provide a specialized and systematic approach to ensure they finish the work safely and on time. They carefully develop the project’s procedure from beginning to end. Remember, they must show a legal agreement before proceeding with the construction work.
5. Transparent Pricing
A recent study shows that 39% of clients’ main source of distress when working with a general contractor is “unexpected charges.” These unforeseen expenses rub the trust and reputation and ultimately affect the project performance. General contractors address financial challenges directly by implementing actionable strategies that promote cost transparency, foster trust, and deliver positive client experiences.
6. Reliable Network of Skilled Workers and Suppliers
General contractors hire subcontractors and work with suppliers to establish strong relationships that improve the long-term growth of businesses. This network contributes to the success and reputation of the business by producing:
High quality
of work
Timely delivery of materials
Seamless
collaboration
7. Commitment to Quality and Workmanship
More than appearance and aesthetic appeal, general contractors must prioritize the overall safety of the structure. Making it more resistant to natural disasters and hazards. This proactive approach avoids accidents on construction sites and reduces potential risks and liabilities. As stated by Advanced Building Corporation,
“Opting for premium construction materials is not merely a choice but a prudent investment that offers substantial long-term benefits.”
8. Flexibility and Resilience
Being able to “roll with the punches” is an advantage in the ever-changing landscape of the construction industry. Essentially, a general contractor reframes challenges as opportunities to refine the project rather than treating them as roadblocks. This can be done by applying the following practices:
- Adjusting project strategies
- Preparing a weather risk reduction plan
- Developing creative solutions
- Implementing ideas in the project
9. Positive Client Feedback
Success in the construction industry goes beyond project completion. Establishing trust and fostering long-term communication results in repeat business and referrals. After all, satisfied customers often hire the same building contractor for future projects and recommend them to others. This leads to increased business opportunities and a consistent flow of projects.
Conclusion
Being a general contractor in a competitive industry requires expertise, reliability, and a strong commitment to professionalism. From strong industry knowledge and following local building codes to maintaining a reliable network and delivering high-quality service. These traits will help you meet client expectations and build a strong reputation in the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
A main contractor is responsible for the interior design and construction of commercial buildings. On the other hand, general contractors serve as construction managers who offer general contracting services. These include project planning, processing the licensing requirements, lift and cladding installation, etc.
Compliant contractor understands and adheres to local laws and permits processes of the construction project.
General contractor services include:
- Project management and cost estimation
- Obtaining building permits and licenses
- Hiring skilled subcontractors
- Coordinating with suppliers
- Processing of billings
- Maintaining health and safety standards
- Environmental disruptions and risk mitigations
Looking for customized solutions for your next project?
Start elevating your business with an industry-leading service provider
