Home improvement projects can become very intimidating experiences to undertake. Aussies pride themselves on improving their real estate but choosing the right professional for the job is always a challenge. You are torn between whether to hire a general contractor or a specialist to do the job at hand. Having knowledge on what each of the above terms mean will make it easier for you to select.

The term ‘general contractor’ refers to the project manager of the entire operation. They oversee hiring subcontractors and ensures that everything gets completed according to the initial schedule set. Specialists are individuals who focus on only one particular trade. This kind of tradesman will have the necessary expertise, equipment and licensing in their field of specialisation. It will be important to know whether you need a specialist or a general contractor based on the nature of your project.

When is Hiring a General Contractor Recommended

Renovation projects that involve many activities have to be supervised by a general contractor. Some examples of such projects include building an entire house, major house extension and complete kitchen remodelling. The person overseeing the process must know how to coordinate the different trades involved in the project.

This kind of contractor relieves you of the hassle of having to take care of the project management aspect. The professional will obtain all the local council permits and organise for municipal inspections. In addition, they will already have a team of trustworthy subcontractors which means that you will not have to source individual plumbers, painters and electricians. If you plan to knock down walls, install plumbing and add flooring to your project, a general contractor will sort out the madness in the best way possible.

Understanding When You Need a Specialist

There are certain tasks that you will need more than the basic general knowledge of the trade involved. There will be the need to hire a specialist whenever the job involves technical skills and adherence to industry requirements. General builders have general knowledge in construction, but specialists, such as commercial roofing specialists, will have in-depth information on their speciality.

Having a specialist do the work makes sure that it is done properly and meets industry standards. In addition, the specialist is bound to have a specific license issued after they met the relevant industry regulations. Specialities will always use special tools which are necessary for doing their work. 

A specialist will have all the up-to-date installation processes and materials that exist in their field. You may be able to save some money when hiring a specialist since you will pay the cost of hiring the specialist rather than paying extra charges for their services by hiring through a general contractor.

Specialist Trades in Australia

There are some projects that require specialists in particular trades to be done. Roof replacement will fall under this category due to extreme weather conditions. Roofing companies are experts in roofing procedures such as installation of appropriate materials for that climate and ventilation methods. Electrical projects and plumbing work also fall under the category of requiring specialists.

Upgrading your switchboard or re-wiring a historical structure should be done by a specialist in the field of electricity because there is a high risk of setting off fire. Sewer line installation and solar hot water systems require plumbing specialist. Other specialities in this field include asbestos removal, foundation repairs and custom cabinet work.

How to Decide on Hiring a Specialist or a General Builder

Hiring a general builder or a specialist depends on your type of renovation project. Large-scale projects with many activities involved will require a general contractor. However, there are single trade projects that require the expertise of a specialist.It is important for you to consider your specific needs when undertaking home improvement projects. If your project includes major improvements on the entire structure then a general builder is what you need. On the other hand, if you only require small tasks done on your property then get in touch with a specialist.