General Contractor 101: Responsibilities, Oversight, and Value
If you’re a business owner or developer planning your first commercial construction project, you’ve likely heard the term “General Contractor” (GC) tossed around—but what does a GC actually do? At Horizons Commercial Contracting, our job goes well beyond swinging hammers or placing concrete. We act as the central hub for communication, coordination, and execution—taking your vision and turning it into a fully functioning, code-compliant, high-quality building.
Here’s a breakdown of what we’re really responsible for—and how that brings value to your project from day one.
🧱 1. Managing the Entire Construction Process
From the first mobilization to final closeout, we coordinate every phase of your commercial construction project. That includes:
- Site preparation and utility coordination
- Scheduling subcontractors
- Ordering materials and managing deliveries
- Sequencing trades to keep work moving
- Conducting job walks and quality control checks
We don’t just build—we orchestrate the build.
📋 2. Coordinating with Subcontractors & Suppliers
Your project involves dozens of professionals—plumbers, electricians, concrete crews, framers, HVAC installers, and more. We’re responsible for:
- Hiring qualified subcontractors
- Ensuring work is completed to spec and schedule
- Verifying that safety standards are met
- Collecting lien waivers and managing payouts
- Holding teams accountable when issues arise
At Horizons, we’ve built strong relationships with reliable subs, which leads to better pricing and better results for our clients.
🗂 3. Overseeing Documentation, Permits & Inspections
While we don’t handle architectural or engineering design, we make sure:
- The latest approved plans are used in the field
- All required permits are pulled before construction begins
- Inspections are scheduled and passed at every stage
- Required documentation is completed and organized
We also use Procore, our project management software, to track everything in real time—from daily logs to inspection records.
📆 4. Maintaining the Construction Schedule
Delays can destroy a budget. Our job is to:
- Build a realistic schedule during preconstruction
- Identify potential bottlenecks
- Keep subs and deliveries aligned
- Adjust quickly when field conditions change
Clients rely on us to hit target completion dates—and we take that responsibility seriously.
5. Managing Budget & Cost Control
While architects and owners determine the scope, we manage the day-to-day financial execution:
- Providing accurate bids and estimates
- Monitoring material pricing
- Processing change orders
- Approving subcontractor pay apps
- Avoiding scope creep and waste
Our clients appreciate honest, upfront cost conversations and clear documentation throughout the build.
✅ 6. Delivering a Complete, High-Quality Final Product
When the project wraps, our responsibility doesn’t end. We handle:
- Final punch list completion
- Closeout package delivery (manuals, warranties, waivers)
- Subcontractor follow-up for post-completion issues
- Final inspections and occupancy coordination
At Horizons, project closeout is just as important as kickoff. We want our clients to walk away with a building they’re proud of—and the support they need to operate it confidently.
💬 Want to Know More?
If you’re starting a commercial project in Arizona, Texas, or California, and want a GC who takes ownership from start to finish, reach out to us today.
📞 Call us: 480-772-3999
📧 Email us: info@horizonscc.netinfo@horizonscc.net