What’s the function of a general contractor in a home building or remodeling project?

The general contractor is an integral part of a team that includes designers, architects, engineers, and the client. The contractor takes input from the different members of the team and makes it happen through building the project. We’re the driving force towards realizing the finished, physical project, bringing concept to reality. We’re managers and administrators, and we bring in our own team of skilled and experienced technicians, plus necessary subcontractors, suppliers, and other specialty contractors if needed. We manage the budget and handle financial administration. Not only will your project meet State and local codes, we ensure that your home will be built to the highest standards in the industry.

General contractors must have the State of California General Class B license. Another license is the Home Improvement Contractor (BHIC), which was recently introduced as a requirement of all contractors performing remodeling and other home improvement projects by the California State License Board (CSLB). An additional test must be taken for this license.

State law requires us to be licensed and bonded. A one-person shop might get away without carrying insurance. But a company with even one employee must have workers compensation for employees. There is no specific requirement for liability. However, most good contractors have insurance. Sundquist Associates carries the appropriate amount of liability insurance for the number of projects under contract at any given time.

The obvious traits are quality, craftsmanship, responsibility, responsiveness, good communication, and evidence that the contractor is a good team player. Less obvious but as important is the company structure – it should be well organized, staff must be sensitive and respectful of the client’s home, and they must demonstrate an ability to tune into a client’s overall expectations for the project.

How long have you been in business?

We have been building custom homes and remodeling projects since 1949. George Sundquist founded Sundquist Associates in 1969.

We wish there were an easy, standard answer. Variables such as weather, time of year the project starts, size and style of the project, finishes and finish techniques, and overall complexity of the project affect how long a project will take. It is important your contractor be realistic and up front about the time your project will take, allowing you to plan accordingly. A successful project will depend upon realistic expectations on the part of both homeowner and contractor.