What does a General Contractor do?

If you’ve ever seen a new house being built or a major renovation in progress, there was likely a general contractor (often called a GC) working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.

Let’s break it down in simple terms so you understand who a general contractor is—and why hiring one could be one of the best choices you make for your project.

What Is a General Contractor?

A general contractor is the person—or sometimes a company—who manages your construction or remodeling job from start to finish. They take care of all the moving parts so you don’t have to.

You can think of a general contractor like the coach of a sports team. They may not swing a hammer or lay tile themselves, but they know how to bring in the right players, call the right plays, and make sure the job gets done right and on time.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what a GC takes care of:

• Pulls permits and handles inspections
• Schedules and oversees subcontractors like electricians, plumbers, framers, roofers, and painters
• Orders and manages building materials so nothing is delayed
• Makes sure all work is done safely and up to local codes
• Keeps you updated regularly, so you always know what’s going on

Why Hire a Licensed GC?

Hiring a licensed general contractor is a smart move for any construction or remodeling project—especially those over $40,000, which legally require one in North Carolina. Licensed contractors offer peace of mind by ensuring your project meets code, stays on budget, and is completed correctly.

Benefits include:

• Legal protection – Complies with state laws and building codes
• Time savings – Manages scheduling, permits, and subcontractors
• Cost control – Avoids delays and costly mistakes
• Peace of mind – Insured, qualified, and accountable

When Should You Call a General Contractor?

Not sure if you need a general contractor for your next project? Use this checklist to decide. If you answer yes to any of the following, it’s time to call a GC:

• Building a custom home from the ground up
• Remodeling a kitchen, bathroom, or commercial space
• Flipping properties or managing investment renovations
• Taking on any project that involves multiple trades, like electricians, plumbers, framers, and painters
• Project cost is over $40,000
• You need permits or inspections
• You don’t have time to manage the schedule or contractors
• You want professional oversight to avoid mistakes or delays
• You want one point of contact for clear communication

A licensed general contractor helps keep your project on track, up to code, and stress-free. When in doubt, it’s always better to consult a professional. At Monroe Quality Contractors, we’re ready to help bring your vision to life.