General

General Contractor

Also known as: GC

The prime contractor responsible for delivering the complete project, coordinating subs, materials, and inspections.

A general contractor (GC) is the prime contractor on a construction project — the entity contracted directly with the owner to deliver the complete project. The GC manages the project end to end: estimating and bidding, scheduling, subcontractor management, material procurement, permitting, inspections, daily logs, change orders, and substantial completion. The GC is responsible for the entire scope even if specific work is performed by specialty subcontractors.

GCs typically self-perform some work (carpentry, supervision, sometimes drywall or finish work) and subcontract specialty trades (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, fire protection, roofing). GC licensing requirements vary by state and by project value tier. Bonding capacity, insurance, and project history are typical owner-side qualification criteria.

Frequently asked questions

What does a general contractor do?+

A GC delivers a complete construction project: estimating, scheduling, sub management, material procurement, permitting, inspections, change orders, and substantial completion. The GC is responsible for the entire scope even when specialty work is subcontracted.

What is the difference between a GC and a subcontractor?+

A GC contracts directly with the owner for the complete project. Subcontractors contract with the GC to perform specialty work (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, drywall, etc.). The GC carries overall responsibility; subs carry trade-specific responsibility.

Do general contractors need a license?+

Licensing varies by state and by project value tier. Most states issue commercial GC licenses with tiered scope limits. Some states (like Texas) have no state-level GC license but municipalities have their own requirements. Always verify with your state and city.

Related terms

Bid

A contractor's formal price proposal to perform a defined scope of work, usually in response to a bid invitation.

Contract

The binding written agreement between owner and contractor defining scope, price, schedule, and terms of the project.

Scope of Work

The written description of all tasks, materials, and deliverables the contractor agrees to perform on the project.

Submittal

A contractor-prepared document (shop drawing, product data, sample) submitted for design-team review before fabrication.