Steps to Become a General Contractor

Jul 1
07:20

2010

Anna Woodward

Anna Woodward

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For becoming a general contractor, you need to have a bachelor’s degree, gain hands-on experience, get a general contacting license and then begin with your own business.

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A general contractor is an individual who is usually self-employed and manages construction projects meticulously while maintaining a contract with developers. If you wish to make it a career,Steps to Become a General Contractor Articles you will be required to select construction methods, choose materials needed, take care of budgeting and scheduling. Hiring of employees and subcontractors will also be in your hands. All states in the USA require a license to work though there are no standard educational requirements. You would preferably need to have a good mix of formal education and also some hands-on construction experience.

Step 1: Fetch a bachelor's degree 
If you are looking for good career opportunities, you should study to get a bachelor's degree either in civil engineering, building science, construction technology or construction management. A developer would prefer to hire a general contractor who holds a bachelor's degree. These degree programs would include several courses like math, contract management, cost estimation, construction safety, construction methods and contract management. Thus, acquiring a degree would also help in your preparation for certification exams. You will get to learn hiring and scheduling. Budgeting and other skills needed for construction projects will also be some things that you will learn.

Step 2: Gain hands-on experience 
You are likely to begin as a regular construction worker. So, while you are at it, you will get to learn about many different facets of construction. In a while you will know enough about masonry, carpentry, framing and plumbing which will help you later. You may then contact other subcontractors and acquire the management skills that you would need to run your own business.

Step 3: Get a license 
Requirements for getting a license vary from state to state, though every state will conduct an exam for a general contractor to obtain a license. Some states may not look at your bachelor's degree. Some other states may want you to prove that you have enough finances to own a general contracting firm. A few states may even ask you for your experience in the construction industry which you have to prove with referrals from previous employees or customers. Most states have made it mandatory that the applicants pass a written test on topics related to contracting and construction law.

Step 4: Start your own business 
As a general contractor you may want to run your own business. Once you get to do so, you will need to manage a team of specialists like electricians, carpenters, masons, plumbers, etc. You may also need to hire a subcontractor. You will need to ensure that your business grows by each day, for which you will have to network with potential clients and get the best from your subcontractors. You will also need adequate finances to buy the basic construction tools. Though you will not be involved with construction work directly, but for good management of workers, you should be familiar with the various construction techniques.

Becoming a general contractor isn't as difficult as you thought it to be. Isn't it?