A general contractor in construction – Why hire them? Max 15 March 2023

General contractor in construction

Why hire them ?

In Quebec, when it comes to carrying out construction projects, a general contractor is often called upon. What exactly is a general contractor in construction? In this article, we’ll explain what this means, what it’s for, why it’s important and what their tasks are.

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Entrepreneur général

A general contractor is a person or company responsible for the overall management of a construction project, whether residential, commercial or institutional. The general contractor coordinates and supervises all work, hires and manages subcontractors, ensures deadlines and budget are met, and ensures the project complies with the standards and regulations in force in Quebec.

Role and responsibilities of a general contractor in construction?

A general contractor is essential to the success of a construction project. As the central manager of the project, it allows to:

  • Coordinate and supervise the various trades involved in the project;
  • Manage unforeseen circumstances and resolve problems that may arise during the project;
  • Ensure the quality of work and compliance with standards and regulations.
  • Project planning and organization, including scheduling and team coordination;
  • Selecting, hiring and managing subcontractors, ensuring their competence and reliability;
  • Managing the procurement of materials and equipment, as well as cost tracking.
  • Communicating with the client to keep them informed of the project’s progress and discuss any potential modifications or adjustments.
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Pourquoi l'engager ?

There are many advantages to using a general contractor, including :

  • Save time and energy by having a single point of contact to manage the entire project.
  • Benefit from the expertise of an experienced professional who is capable of supervising and coordinating the various trades.
  • Ensure the quality of work, thanks to rigorous supervision and in-depth knowledge of standards and regulations.
  • Minimize the risks of exceeding the budget and delaying the work, thanks to effective project management

In conclusion

In conclusion, it’s essential to emphasize that, to fully assume their key role in the realization of a construction project in Quebec, general contractors must also comply with current legal and regulatory requirements. This includes possession of a valid RBQ license number, an adequate surety bond, sufficient liability insurance, membership in a prevention mutual, as well as the residential construction warranty and any other accreditation required for the completion of your project. By complying with these criteria, the general contractor not only demonstrates his professionalism and commitment to the success of the project, but also helps protect customers and maintain confidence in the construction industry.

Vous aimeriez réaliser un projet avec nous ?

A general contractor is a person or company who is primarily responsible for managing a construction project. It acts as a central point for planning, coordinating work, managing subcontractors, keeping to budget and deadlines, and ensuring that the project complies with standards and regulations.

The role of a building contractor is to supervise and direct the construction project from start to finish. This includes managing the manpower, materials, equipment and services needed to complete the project, while complying with safety and quality standards.

To become a general contractor in Quebec, you need a license from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ). Applicants must meet criteria of education, experience, pass a qualifying exam and provide proof of bonding and insurance.

To find a good construction contractor, start by asking your network for recommendations. Then check contractors’ qualifications and licenses, and make sure they have a good reputation and experience relevant to your type of project.

It may be relevant to evaluate the number of years the company has been registered with the Quebec Enterprise Registrar.