Often referred to as general contractors or construction professionals, building contractors are responsible for taking care of building and road construction, and demolition. They study a structure’s blueprints and provide the client with the right strategies to carry out the job. They are tasked with the responsibility of choosing both the materials and methods to finish the construction job effectively. Building contractors ensure that all details in the building contract have been met. If you’re an aspiring building contractor, you may be wondering what are the requirements to become one. Below are some requirements and things to consider when looking for ways on how to become a building contractor.
How to Become a Building Contractor
Get a Bachelor’s Degree
Clients prefer hiring building contractors who have a degree in a course associated with construction. It can be a degree in civil engineering, construction technology, building science or construction management. These courses boost career opportunities and increase the chances of landing a contract. A course in construction may involve things such as construction safety, contract management, site safety, cost estimation, construction strategies, and many others. An aspiring contractor learns how to budget, hire, schedule and other skills needed to manage a project from start to finish.
Gain the Required Experience
A building contractor starts out as a regular construction employee. Since they will be fresh out of school and without any experience, the building contractor can look for employment in a company that deals with all matters concerning building and construction. While gaining experience, you will get to learn about the different sides of construction such as plumbing, framing, woodworking, and masonry. Many clients like hiring a building contractor with experience and therefore, work with an established building company to get hands-on experience.
Get a License and Certification
Each state requires building contractors to be licensed. However, a bachelor’s degree is not a mandatory requirement to get licensed. Requirements may vary across different states, and they may involve passing exams on subjects such as construction law and contracting. Some states may demand proof that you have the finances required to establish a building and construction company. Others may demand construction experience and references from clients, previous employers and business partners.
Even though it’s not mandatory, getting a business certification is an added advantage. It assures your clients that yours is a professional company that follows industry standards.
Establish Yourself as Building Contractor
After getting the necessary education, experience, a license and certification, you’re now ready to start working on projects for your clients. In most cases, you’ll find successful building contractors running their own companies. They hire employees to finish building jobs and may manage other professionals such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and other experts. They build their business by purchasing various construction materials, working with a few clients and ensuring that they provide high-quality work. Even though a building contractor may not be involved in the actual work itself, he/she should be knowledgeable about the different construction strategies, so that they can manage a project effectively.
Next Steps
Hopefully, the above article has given you ways on how to become a building contractor. The process of becoming a building contractor is stressful, but a rewarding experience. When you’re done with getting the needed requirements, you’ll be on your way to making huge profits. Trust the process and be on the lookout for ways to improve yourself as a contractor. Good luck!