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  • Writer's pictureNIC_Kim

What is a general contractor?

Updated: Jun 3, 2020

Simply put, a general contractor is the company responsible for sourcing, scheduling and coordinating all of the labor, materials, equipment and services necessary to complete home improvement or construction projects per contract, in a timely, on-budget manner. A more in-depth look will reveal that a legitimate (Tennessee) general contracting company is licensed, and directed by knowledgeable, business-savvy individuals with excellent communication skills.


Though each project is truly unique and the contract terms differ from one project to the next, we've compiled a general list of several skills, requirements, and job duties that successful Tennessee general contracting companies typically possess or fulfill. This list is not all-encompassing, however we hope it helps homeowners begin to understand what we do and who we are as a general contracting company!


A general contractor:

  • Meets licensing requirements and attains their general contractor license by the State of Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors, performs projects within their monetary limit set by the state

  • Possesses appropriate insurance, bond

  • Is thoroughly familiar with all construction techniques and processes through years of construction industry experience and training

  • Is business savvy, knows business well and is discerning about changes in the industry that impact their company

  • Completes continuing education, training and specialty certification opportunities when available in order to stay up to date on the latest techniques, industry innovations, requirements and standards

  • Builds and manages a team of professionals and specialists such as roofers, carpenters, masons, plumbers, electricians, flooring installers, and more

  • Vets all workers for skill, work ethic, dependability & trustworthiness

  • Develops and implements safety programs

  • Communicates openly with homeowners to collect and formulate ideas and gauge expectations of the project, answers questions thoroughly

  • Works in tandem with engineers and architects when applicable to the project

  • Completes project estimation, takes into consideration all project aspects

  • Utilizes industry-standard technology platforms to estimate and communicate

  • Submits straight-forward, written proposal(s) to homeowner

  • Maintains accurate records, notes and documentation per project

  • Performs within the boundaries of governing authorities' laws and regulations, state statutes and local ordinances

  • Submits appropriate permit applications and schedules code inspections when required

  • Schedules trades, materials and equipment based on cumulative knowledge of the project

  • Sources, orders and coordinates delivery of materials and equipment, per contract

  • Sets and reaches goals for time and budget management

  • Oversees and secures the project site, equipment and materials

  • Manages personnel onsite, is point of contact for homeowner and work crew

  • Frequently communicates progress to all parties

  • Verifies quality of work meets or exceeds high standards and customer expectations

  • Demonstrates commitment to the customer through complete contract satisfaction, warranty offerings and follow-through

We'd love to show off these qualities on your next home improvement project!

Is this list helpful to you? We're happy to answer any questions you may have, and schedule a no-cost project consultation appointment with you soon.


Call Nailed It Construction Services today at (901)654-6677!






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