A construction contractor is a firm or an individual that completes construction projects on a contractual basis. The contractor owns the materials and the labor, but he does not own the land. Contractors are also called general contractors. Some general contractors manage some or all aspects of the construction process. General contractors can subcontract to specialty contractors in order to complete specific elements of the project if they do not have the expertise to perform those tasks themselves.
Construction managers coordinate and supervise construction projects from inception to completion, including budgeting, hiring workers, obtaining permits and inspecting work for quality control. A civil engineer designs and oversees construction projects like bridges, roads and water supply systems. Construction engineers use engineering principles to plan and design new construction projects or alterations to existing ones.
The contractor is responsible for ensuring that the work performed under the contract meets all of the requirements established by the contract documents. This includes the project specifications, drawings, safety and security requirements, quality control standards, and all other applicable requirements.
Further, contractors should be aware that they are required to comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including those that govern labor laws, employee benefits and safety standards. Contractors also must ensure that their employees have received all necessary training related to their roles on the job site.
Regardless of the type of contract, the contractor is responsible for:
- Meeting his contractual obligations, including deadlines.
- Maintaining all necessary training and licensing, if applicable.
- Providing proof of adequate insurance and bonding.
- Meeting all legal requirements in performing his duties.
And in detail, the roles and responsibilities of a construction contractor are: