A commercial contractor is a professional or company responsible for overseeing a commercial project’s entire construction or renovation process. They coordinate and manage all aspects of the project, including hiring subcontractors, sourcing materials and ensuring the work adheres to established timelines and budgets.
By managing every detail, commercial general contractors simplify the complexities of building a commercial space, whether a restaurant, convenience store or retail space.
Stovall Construction is a trusted commercial contractor that has provided businesses with design-build, new construction, renovation and expansion services for over 50 years. For reliable guidance from start to finish, message our team or contact us directly at 817-572-1331 to discuss your project needs.
Hiring Commercial General Contractors
A commonly asked question among business owners is, do you need a general contractor for a commercial building project?
The simple answer is yes!
Beyond their expertise and experience, securing financing and getting the proper construction permits is almost impossible without a licensed general contractor.
Commercial building projects also come with many risks. A skilled general contractor can help mitigate these risks and protect your investment.
However, not all commercial general contractors are equally skilled or best suited for particular projects. Consider the size, industry, and type of project before hiring someone. Here are some more pointers when selecting a commercial general contractor:
What Are the Work Requirements of a Building Contractor?
Clients who need to build or renovate their commercial properties – whether an office complex, restaurant, hotel, convenience store, retail store or public building – usually need to hire commercial general contractors to undertake these projects on their behalf.
Prospective building contractors require the following skills, knowledge and qualities to be successful in their line of work:
- Ability to pay attention to detail
- In-depth knowledge of planning and estimation software programs
- Skills in leadership and project management
- Extensive knowledge of the legislative framework that applies to the commercial construction sector
- Technical skills to perform relevant project analysis and evaluation and develop effective corrective measures
Can a General Contractor Do Commercial Work?
Yes, general contractors are trained and licensed to undertake various projects that apply to commercial developments. These include the following:
- Construction of commercial buildings, including office complexes, retail complexes, restaurant outlets, convenience stores, etc.
- Renovation, remodeling and addition of commercial developments
- Installation, repair and maintenance of plumbing and electrical systems within commercial buildings
- Installation, repair and maintenance of HVAC systems within commercial developments
Benefits of a General Contractor for Commercial Construction
Hiring a professional general commercial contractor for commercial property construction and remodeling projects comes with the following benefits:
Safety Assurance
Commercial property owners can easily gauge which contractors have a history of credibility by simply checking whether they’re licensed and bonded. Reputable general commercial contractors usually assure clients of quality and safe results.
Top-Notch Organization
Commercial general contractors typically possess in-depth knowledge of site management and will keep things running flawlessly during the construction, renovation, remodeling or refurbishing of a commercial project. Their job is to ensure the project is completed on time and according to the client’s requirements. This is only possible through proper project documentation and scheduling.
Efficiency
Seasoned general commercial contractors bring the skills and knowledge required to manage resources effectively throughout a project. Their strong problem-solving and budgeting abilities guarantee that projects are completed on schedule while minimizing waste.
Guaranteed Quality
Whether it’s a construction, renovation or remodeling project, investing in a credible general commercial contractor typically translates to satisfactory results. Most successful contractors know the value that customer satisfaction adds to their reputation and will, therefore, go every step of the way to ensure their clients get their money’s worth. They’ll also ensure that the commercial project they’re working on complies with the updated local building codes and trends.
The best commercial building contractors possess not only top-notch construction and remodeling skills but also the business acumen needed to efficiently use the financial and time resources available to them.
What Are the Roles of a Commercial General Contractor?
Commercial general contractors have a broad skill set, which is crucial as most projects require them to wear many hats.
The following are some of the functions a general contractor may perform during a construction, remodeling or renovation project:
- Procuring Human Labor Resources: A general contractor is usually in charge of hiring handymen to undertake the physical aspects of project work.
- Resource Procurement and Maintenance: Commercial general contractors have many responsibilities, including procuring the equipment and building supplies needed to complete the project and keeping the equipment well-maintained.
- Facilitating Sideline Projects: The general contractor also usually takes charge of other site-related tasks, including waste management on the project site, site surveying, engineering and project monitoring that follows the pre-established schedules.
- Facilitating Client Communication: The general contractor is responsible for answering the client’s queries regarding project progress. They should also communicate unexpected challenges and plans to resolve them.
- Facilitating Legislative Compliance: Commercial building contractors should liaise with the relevant federal and local government agencies to ensure all licensing requirements are met. They also work with legal consultants to ensure compliance with the relevant commercial law requirements.
How To Become a Commercial Contractor
For most states, the basic requirements for individuals who want to be general contractors include the following:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must possess a high school diploma or an equivalent degree
- Must be able to work in the country legally
However, you can advance your career by:
Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree Course
Those looking to become commercial general contractors need a bachelor’s degree certification in construction management. The course equips them with the necessary construction skills and techniques in site management, electrical systems and more, while also sharpening their managerial and business acumen.
Undertaking an Internship
Internships accord prospective commercial contractors much-needed work experience under the guidance of seasoned commercial contractors who already know what it takes to succeed in the field.
Typical responsibilities given to commercial contractor interns include order preparation and site safety monitoring. Internships also offer individuals the opportunity to increase their employment prospects through networking with those already established in the construction industry.
Earning a Contractor’s License
You can legally subcontract work to fellow contractors by earning a commercial contractor’s permit. The eligibility requirements may vary from state to state, but most usually require applicants to pass an exam that tests the knowledge of relevant business laws and building codes. Private businesses and community colleges typically offer short courses to prepare prospective commercial building contractors for such licensing tests.
How Long Does It Take To Become a General Contractor?
A course in construction management, which is recommended for pursuing a career as a commercial contractor, takes about four years, as do similar courses. With appropriate training, you can become a fully-fledged general contractor. Earning a master’s degree takes up to an additional three years. However, some opt for alternative pathways toward becoming a commercial contractor, such as joining apprenticeship programs in trade schools or earning general workplace experience. In such cases, becoming a full-fledged commercial contractor may take three to five years.
Work With an Experienced Commercial Construction Company
Working with renowned and established construction companies like Stovall Construction can be the gateway to a successful general contractor career. The family-owned company strives to deliver top-quality construction with exceptional customer service. For more information, call 817-572-1331 or contact us today to discuss how we can support your next project.