General Contractor
A general contractor (GC) manages an entire construction or renovation project from start to finish. They hire, supervise, and coordinate specialty subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, roofers), obtain permits, and are accountable to the homeowner for the project's overall quality and completion.
Most states require a separate general contractor license beyond any specialty trade licenses. California, for example, requires a Class B license from the CSLB for general building work.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a general contractor for small renovations?
- For projects involving multiple trades (e.g., a kitchen remodel with electrical, plumbing, and carpentry), a GC is usually the safest choice. For single-trade work, hire the specialist directly.
- How do I check if a general contractor is licensed?
- Search by name, business name, or license number on ContractorVetted. Look for "active" status and no disciplinary actions.
Verify a contractor's license now