Top 10 General Contractors in Stansbury Park, UT
Frequently asked questions about general contractors
A general contractor oversees building and remodeling projects from start to finish. Their main priority is making sure that a project progresses according to the schedule, is on budget, and that all work is done properly. All other contractors and workers answer to the general contractor and they answer to the client who hired them.
Start by getting bids from different contractors. Bids lay out your expected cost and the extent of the project, including materials, labor, and when the project will be done. If you have a local contractor in mind, feel free to work with them in negotiating the terms of a bid, rather than putting out a competitive bid request. Terms typically outline payment installments, an expected timeline for milestones, and the expected outcome at each phase of the project.
Once you've signed the contract with the general contractor, they bring in the workers and begin on the project. Throughout the course of the project, the general contractor manages all workers and subcontractors. General contractors generally own or work for a company that handles one or two aspects of building and remodeling. Very few do framing, finishing, electrical, concrete, plumbing, and landscaping on their own. So, it's quite common for general contractors to outsource work from other companies. The general contractor handles the hiring of these subcontractors, as well as paying them and their own workers. You only have to worry about paying the general contractor.
Hiring multiple subcontractors for a job might seem more economical, but it would put much of the decision-making on you. What you might save in money may be offset by the amount of time and mental energy you'd have to put into the project. An experienced general contractor knows the ins and outs of the construction business. They understand how to structure a project and work with subcontractors to get projects completed safely, and on schedule. This leaves the day-to-day decisions to someone with more experience.
The licensing rules in some states require hiring a general contractor for certain projects. If the state doesn't require a general contractor in your case, it makes good sense to hire a licensed and insured local contractor.
General contractors live by their reputation. They work hard to build trust with their clients and honor that trust through their management of construction projects. Even if they never lift a hammer during the course of a job, they feel a great sense of ownership of the whole operation.
General contractors usually have a vast knowledge of local building codes. Their understanding of construction and people management helps all subcontractors to work together. They see how each piece fits together to make a completed project. Subcontractors may take a narrow view of their role, which could cause problems for other subcontractors working on the next step. General contractors work closely with their crews, subcontractors, and you to prevent costly miscommunication.
Whether you're hiring a home contractor to build your dream house or searching "general contractors in my area" to oversee a remodel project, you'll be working closely with whomever you choose.
When you get underway with your contractor, you'll begin by sorting out every possible detail. Before work begins, the contractor will work out a project plan with you. The project plan may include determining fixtures, finishes, and furnishings — to avoid any cost gaps in the initial bid. The more specific you are, the more realistic and accurate the bid will be.
Make sure it’s OK to call or text your contractor throughout the day. Even if they aren't always available, they should provide you with contact information for a lead person or someone else you can discuss the project with. When possible, visit the job site. This gives the contractor or lead the opportunity to bring up any issues and ask any questions about specifics that weren't covered in the project plan.
It's also helpful to keep a project journal. Write down product order numbers. Jot down questions and ideas, and note delivery dates. This can make it easier to sort out any disputes that may arise later. Track any changes to the initial project plan in writing. If unforeseen changes occur, make sure to get a bid change in writing.
Other helpful tips:
- Check on work as it progresses
- Pay only for completed work
- Be a fair customer by paying bills on time, responding quickly to questions, and treating your contractor and their workers fairly
- Know the workers’ names, and make sure they have what they need
- Establishing a good working relationship with your contractor from the beginning will lead to a more successful project
Some general contractors charge a flat fee. Most charge a markup, which is a percentage of the overall completed project cost. The markup amount covers their overhead, including advertising, insurance, office expenses, and their own salary. The contractor should outline all payments and expenses in the contract at the outset.
Contractors typically ask for a percentage of the total project cost upfront. This initial fee covers the cost of getting the project started, provides workers with their wages for the first phase of the construction, and helps serve as a deposit for the needed materials and supplies. Fifteen percent is a fair and decent initial payment for getting a project started. Most states cap this initial fee at 33%, and a good contractor should have good enough credit to cover remaining up-front costs.
After each phase or "milestone" gets completed, your contract will likely require you to pay more money toward the project. These installments are an expected part of the construction process to cover wages, additional supplies, and materials the contractor may need to continue. Even the most well-off contractor would quickly run out of money to move forward if they didn't include installment payments into their contracts.
A big project is a costly endeavor and a long-term investment. When choosing a general contractor, it makes sense to look beyond just the contractor’s fee. Be sure to hire someone that can provide proof of licensing, insurance, and references. Take the time to look into their track record. A good general contractor will leave a trail of stellar online reviews, and when you talk to former clients, they'll have only good things to say. When you enter a project with a contractor, you need a pro you trust with your home, so it’s wise to do your homework ahead of time to ensure a successful outcome.
Begin with a plan that lays out the scope of the remodeling work you want done. By the time you hire a contractor, you should have decided on materials, fixtures, appliances, and other items. If you've decided on any changes to the floor plan, be sure to add the specifics to your plan. The more details, the better. Add everything you can think of, down to the brass pulls for the kitchen cupboards.
Once you have this plan, start talking to contractors to get estimates and formal bids. Ask around for local contractor recommendations at your local hardware store, or go online and read client reviews. Good contractors tend to be very busy, so expect a waiting period from the time you contact them to the time they can start on the project. Be sure to seek out a contractor with experience in the job you need done. If you need a patio installed, scroll past them if they specialize in kitchens and baths.
When speaking to the contractor, make sure you're clear on which parts of the project the contractor will handle and which will go to a subcontractor. Ask for proof of licensing, insurance, and any relevant subcontractors' licenses. Check contractor credentials with your local Better Business Bureau.
Only sign a detailed contract, and be sure you understand every detail of the contract before signing. Be sure to get the proper permits for your project. A good contractor will be able to talk you through getting permits. In some places, contractors are able to get the permits themselves. Check in with the contractor regularly during the course of the project to avoid errors and miscommunication.
Searching online for "good general contractors near me" or getting referrals from a hardware or home improvement store is a first step to hiring a contractor. Take certain precautions before hiring a contractor to prevent costly headaches later on.
Begin by working with a professional architect or designer who's able to provide all the information a contractor will need. A designer or architect can also create the necessary drawings to submit for obtaining a permit. Include details like finishes, fixtures, plumbing work, electrical installations, and possible millwork.
Come up with a specifications list in advance. Write down the details of every element you want placed into the project, from the front door to the floor tiles that you want. Calculate to make sure all your selections fall within your budget and meet your personal requirements.
Make sure your contractor has the proper licensing and insurance. Check out a potential contractor’s previous work. They should be able to offer examples. When you interview contractors, remember that you'll spend a lot of time working with this person. You need to feel you can trust them because unexpected situations are bound to come up. Perhaps you didn't consider what style of door handle you want for the master bathroom, or the carpet you selected for the living room is no longer available. These types of situations happen with any project, so do your best to remain patient throughout the construction process.
See to it that your contractor provides a timeline that they can stick to and that works with your needs. Get a list of subcontractors they use, and look into their history. Use careful consideration when choosing your contractor for the most successful outcome.
Be sure your general contractor is licensed and insured. They should have both contractor’s liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. An insured contractor will take responsibility for the project and for anything that happens at the worksite. Make sure their insurance covers any subcontractors or that they only work with insured third parties.
Ask for proof of insurance right away. Hiring an uninsured contractor may seem less expensive, but it could cost you down the road. In the event of a job-site injury or property damage, a properly insured contractor will shield you from potentially catastrophic costs. Depending on the state you live in, if a worker is injured on your property and their general contractor didn't carry the proper insurance, you might be liable for the cost of treating their injuries.
Homeowners’ insurance policies cover property damage. Some also cover limited injury liability, but these policies have limitations. Even in the unlikely event that your policy covers 100 percent of liability, your premiums would most certainly go up. Contractors insurance ensures that you don't have to cover any costs unrelated to the project completion itself.
If a contractor is reliable, they'll be licensed and carry insurance, and if they don't have a license, no company will insure them. Proof of proper licensing and insurance is a sure sign of a reliable contractor.
Recent reviews for Stansbury Park General Contractors
Wasatch General Contracting built a Salon for us. This was a commercial project- they did a great job. Building a commercial salon requires strict building codes, this Contractor was aware of the requirements and worked with the City to ensure we were wi...
Wasatch General Contracting finished our basement in Daybreak. They did a great job. I referred them to my friend and they did an addition on their home in Riverton. I would definitely refer them to my friends and family and I will use them again on a ...
A week timeline turned into 4. When sanding the walls they didn't put up a barrier and sheetrock dust, which is a carcinogen, went everywhere! My 2 year old and 7 month old woke up coughing and covered in dust! Julian doesn't communicate and when asked w...
WGC was referred to me by a close friend. She was really pleased with the work they did for her, so I had WCG add a 1500 sq ft addition onto the back of my house. WOW! He suggested bigger windows than I had envisioned to let in more light, and I am so ...
Wasatch General Contracting built our home for us. They did a great job. They were honest and very professional. I would definitely recommend them to family and friends.
Wasatch General Contracting did a remodel on my home. They were precise, professional, courteous and did an outstanding job. I will definitely use them again, and refer to my family, friends and co-workers. Great job!!!
We hired this company to finish a basement which ended up being a BIG mistake. The contract states that it would be finished in 8 weeks. After 9 months the project was still not finished so we fired WGC. The office manager, Janet, provided incorrect in...
Love my new home! Wasatch General Contracting was amazing to work with. From the ground up they were there every step of the way to advise and guide us through this process as first time home builders. Thank you! We'll refer you to everyone we know...
He built a 850 sq' addition with a basenent for us. Craig was great to work with. The quality of work that he does is amazing. I also really like how there were no suprises. When he said he was going to do something; you could always count on him. ...
Everything You Need to Know About Stansbury Park General Contractors
Does the general contractor I want to hire need to be licensed in Stansbury Park?
Before you start any project, it is crucial to learn about the certifications and licenses that you or your General Contractor need to have. There are 8 general contractors in Stansbury Park that are licensed.
Here are the types of license(s) General Contractors need to have to work on General Contractor Services jobs in UT:
I have General Contractor Services work that I need done in Stansbury Park. What should my budget be?
Our data on recent general contractor projects in Stansbury Park shows that larger general contractor services projects in city are often upwards of $0.00. However, this price depends on a number of factors. Cost can increase or decrease based on any/all of the following:
- Location: general contractors travel time may factor into the budget.
- Cost of materials. This is an important factor of your general contractor services project budget. You can purchase materials yourself, but remember that your general contractor professional maybe be able to leverage relationships with other companies to save on material costs.
- Company ratings: Highly-rated general contractors tend to be more expensive. Decide what balance between ratings and cost is right for you.
As always, every project is different and you should contact multiple general contractors throughout Stansbury Park to ensure your project is done right.
What should I check for once my General Contractor in Stansbury Park has finished working?
Every general contractor services project is going to have different results, but here are a few things to check for once any general contractor services company has told you they've finished the job:
- Obviously you want to do a visual inspection. Even if you're unfamiliar with general contractor services work, this gives you the opportunity to ask questions (even basic ones like, what did you do?).
- Ask the general contractor to describe what they did. Whether your general contractor services project was a repair job or a building job, have them run you through what was done.
- Compare the description provided on your general contractor services project estimate to the work completed. Did the professional do what was promised?
- Request that the general contractor do a follow-up visit to check on the work. Most professionals are willing to do this, especially if you ask them.
All General Contractors in Stansbury Park, UT
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