Specialty vs general contractor jobs

A general contractor and a specialty contractor can work in tandem or independently of one another. Depending on the size and scope of your particular project it may require either designations or both. In general, the larger the project the more likely you are to need a general contractor who may then subcontract work out to a specialty contractor. If you are curious about the differences, we will help you to decipher the best options for you. At the end of the day, this is about choice as well as compliance with your local and state laws.

Specialty contractor
A specialty contractor usually has one focus. Though they may have the knowledge and a general understanding of the big picture, they are more or less an integral piece to the larger project. The types of jobs that a specialty contractor focuses on are:

● Plumbing
● Roofing
● Electrical work
● Carpentry
● Concrete
● Heating and cooling
● Pools

There are many more specialties than we have listed here. In fact, in the state of California there are more than 50 classifications of specialty contractors. If you have a specific situation that requires the help of a contractor like your water pipe bursting, air conditioning stops working, leaky roof, etc. then a specialty contractor will be the way to go.

However, if you find yourself in need of having a larger project completed then this form of contractor may play a role but will not be the person or entity leading the operation.

General contractor
If a specialty contractor is a violin player then a general contractor would be considered the maestro. They are highly knowledgeable of almost all aspects of construction. If they themselves do not have the capability to complete an entire project then they can subcontract out specific parts of a project to a specialty contractor. Some types of construction projects that you will require you to call upon a general contractor are:

● House Renovation
● Construction of a new home
● Addition to older home
● Kitchen and bathroom remodels
● Basement remodels

This list is in by no way exhaustive, but it serves to give you a good idea of what a general contractor can do. General contractors in Los Angeles are bound by strict state laws. They can sometimes do the work of a specialty contractor depending on their level of expertise and licensing in California.

Which should I choose?
If you prefer to stay compliant with your local laws and have your project completed as professionally as possible then the choice has already been made for you. If your project requires more than one specialty to complete it, then you will need a general contractor. There are instances when your heating and cooling unit stops working, concrete cracks in your driveway, etc. that a specialty contractor will suffice. In most instances, it is best to at minimum consult with a general contractor about most all projects as they will have knowledge of the best specialty contractors in the area to handle your specific needs.

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