Exploring the Differences Between General Contractors and Specialty Contractors

General contractors and specialty contractors are two distinct types of professionals in the construction industry. While both play crucial roles in the completion of a project, there are significant differences between the two that are important to understand.

General contractors are responsible for overseeing the entire construction project from start to finish. They are typically hired by the property owner or developer and act as the main point of contact for all parties involved in the project. General contractors are responsible for hiring subcontractors, obtaining permits, scheduling inspections, and ensuring that the project stays on track and within budget.

Specialty contractors, on the other hand, focus on a specific aspect of addition construction near me such as plumbing, electrical work, or HVAC systems. These professionals have specialized skills and expertise in their respective fields and are typically hired by general contractors to complete specific tasks within a larger project. Specialty contractors may work independently or as part of a larger team depending on the scope of the project.

One key difference between general contractors and specialty contractors is their level of involvement in a project. General contractors have overall responsibility for managing all aspects of a construction project while specialty contractors focus solely on their area of expertise. This means that general contractors must have a broad understanding of all aspects of construction while specialty contractors can specialize in one particular trade.

Another difference between general contractors and specialty contractors is their licensing requirements. General contracting licenses typically require more extensive education and experience than specialty contracting licenses. General contractor licenses also allow professionals to oversee multiple trades whereas specialty contractor licenses limit them to working within their specific trade.

In terms of cost, general contractors tend to charge higher fees than specialty contractors due to their broader scope of responsibilities. However, hiring a general contractor can often save time and money in the long run by streamlining communication between different trades and ensuring that all aspects of the project are completed efficiently.

When deciding whether to hire a general contractor or specialty contractor for your construction project, it’s important to consider factors such as budget, timeline, complexity, and personal preferences. If you have a large-scale project with multiple trades involved, hiring a general contractor may be more beneficial since they can coordinate all aspects of the job seamlessly. On the other hand if you have a smaller-scale project with only one specific trade required then hiring a specialty contractor may be more cost-effective.

ADM Contractors, LLC.
6134 S Howell Ave Unit 301, Milwaukee, WI 53207
414-626-1553