What A General Contractor Does

[@petemiller519]

I am a retired structural engineer, had hundreds of builder clients. I can honestly say out of maybe 300 builders I knew, I could only trust a handful. Just listening to Scott speak and address issues, he would fall in the latter category. It is very difficult to find a conscientious, honest, hard working GC. An easy way to find one is by going to a structural engineer that does a lot of residential work, and asking him who he would recommend. To find a good engineer, go to multiple worksites and ask the framers who they would recommend. Cheers from Canada.

[@angelmoreno5058]

Pete Miller how is structural engineering as a career? I’m thinking of possibly going that route?

[@Blakely901]

@@angelmoreno5058 study civil engineering and allow for your focus or concentration courses be in structural engineering. Also, a lot of structural guys go to grad school for it as well

[@carsonchan5102]

gold comment

[@WaltWW]

Thanks Pete, I’m looking for a good engineer right now so I’ll brush up on my Spanish.

[@geese5170]

That’s actually fantastic advice. I plan on becoming a GC, so knowing that I can be one above the rest by just being a decent guy gives me hope 😂

[@turtlestomper3012]

Watching the weather forecast as a contractor can save you a lot of time, money,etc.

[@pistool1]

666k subscribers :D

[@codycharles7147]

@@pistool1 as a wise man of God, I wonder what Scott's thoughts are on the mark of the beast, 666.

[@turtlestomper3012]

@@codycharles7147 just a #

[@michaeldougfir9807]

@@codycharles7147 You are right, that Scott is a wise man of God. I think his take on that 666 sign is basic to the fundamentals of Christian scripture and prophecy. You ask because you know who and what it means, like so many of us. And that time is coming sooner than we think. In all probability most of us notice when that number pops up: whether in a phone number, in a license (number) plate, or wherever. Aside from its' inevitability, it is important not to be superstitious about it. Don't go off the deep end. Numbers happen. Rain happens. And so does sunshine. I think the important thing, more than not giving in to it, is to fight it. How? The Bible said a day would come when good will be considered evil, and evil would be considered good. So, simply, stick with good things that ARE good. Don't let deceived people tell you otherwise. And speak up when deceived people lie to others. There are blessings in standing up for God's ways. Don't go with the public's perception on many modern things. Go with the truth from scripture. Then you too can be a wise man of God. In your Bible read the book of Proverbs. It is chock full of how to get along with others in a way that pleases the Lord. And may at times include speaking up firmly against wrong doing, and even wrong beliefs concerning biblical prophecy. A chapter a day in the Book of Proverbs will last you a month. I think you will be glad you read it.

[@pistool1]

@@codycharles7147 As a professional and über level contractor, it is probably just a string of numerals without other random meaning.

[@ollie4dad]

I know a GC that has a boat called "Change Order" it got it's name because he charges $350 when a client changes anything from the the completed and approved plans and contract. This fee, that is clearly stated in the contract and well covered at signing, paid for his 40ft cabin cruiser.

[@edwardbrady8410]

In NYC $350 for a change order would be like found money. More like $3,500 here. Additionally, we have a whole cottage industry of thieves called "expeditors" here who's only job is pushing paper around the various city agencies in order for any work to be permitted. Having dealt with many of them, they are the most cutthroat, cunning opportunists you'll ever come across in life. It's a different world here in Blue Urban Centers.

[@ollie4dad]

@@edwardbrady8410 Like I needed anymore reasons to not live in NYC. Ha... In small town Ohio most changes can be handled with a phone call and an email.

[@josephhummel6200]

cool story.

[@gforcedod]

We do this for living. Sometimes the change order doesn’t even cover for the expenses. The change order boat it’s a myth. It’s like anything else. There are good and bad contractors, just as they are good and bad clients. The best rule is. Hire the most trustworthy Gc with a reasonable price. Not the cheapest guy. The cheapest guy, is always problematic.

[@jerry7334]

@jerry Emmanuel am sorry for your lose but that was really huge🙊 I do forex trading but am not a pro just little knowledge of it and I invest low not more than$2,000 as a beginner

[@klmbuilders5385]

I'm a GC. Have been since 1994. Most of my subs have been with me the whole time. Life is good.

[@furtim1]

Sounds like the GC I worked for. That status/arrangement of keeping the same subs for many years created a less competitive pricing situation from them over the years, resulting in losing a lot of bids and eventual closure of the GC during the crisis. Don't hesitate to shop around, I suggest, and keep them hungry.

[@patrickmcdonagh381]

Ok

[@mikeohernia5498]

@@furtim1 scumbag!

[@What_was_wrong_w_jst_our_names]

What makes you keep them around?

[@klmbuilders5385]

@@What_was_wrong_w_jst_our_names Because we get along well. Personality goes a long way with me.

[@BillyG869]

I’ve been licensed well over 40 years, this is right on. Most important, be honest, own your mistakes, hold your cards, never compromise. I’ve never been sued, collect most all my money. And at 74, still love what I do....NEVER be dishonest, never “Rip Off” anyone....Always pay your subs, promptly when they perform as agreed, never until they do what they agreed to deliver. There is no such thing as a “Deal” and Owner’s who think that are not work the time...

[@nathand1798]

what's the difference between performing as agreed and doing what they agreed to deliver?

[@peacockhorsepower1765]

@@nathand1798 he stated dont pay the sub until he has delivered so if work not comoplete as agreed no payment. Some folks are purely money motivated so once they have youyr money they have no more motivation.

[@chandua8964]

I’m 30 years old computer science IT worker and I wanted to do something on the side and heard about this and totally new to this and planning to do remodeling license. Is it worth it and what are the risk if I be honest and do my job right as promised in the contract. I would love to hear this from you sir. Thank you in advance

[@rcostheta]

Sitting an listening to you talk is at least 60% of why I play your videos :D

[@edwardbrady8410]

He is such a likeable man. A true gentleman.

[@Adventure_fuel]

Edward Brady how to live like him is the question as his sons are

[@mossyhollow3732]

If you are stopping by the job site to look over the contractors shoulder (and you should but not too often), bring only a positive attitude and donuts or other treats for the crew. The crew will know they are working for a kind person who deserves for the job to be done right versus good enough. And hire an independent home inspector.

[@rubenvarela4077]

Tacos

[@jayebyrd00]

Beer works very well. For after the day is done of course.

[@foxwood67]

I couldn't agree more.

[@kito1san]

Yes and know. In general, you do not want to be the soft boss on top. Everyone will slack off and you will have many delays on the project. The main key is having the crew respect you as the leader and when work is involved things to need be serious and a schedule to make or beat. There are time for snacks, treat and happy hours. However, being the soft leader does not work in a construction environment nor is safe for anyone.

[@mossyhollow3732]

@@kito1san This is about being the home owner not the site forman. Being a kind and appreciative cuatomer versus a nagging nit picking jerk.Only slackers slack off.

[@badlandskid]

When you hire a GC, you are hiring him for his relationships and his experience. One cold winter morning I was at the drive through for my favorite coffee shop. The lady at the window noticed I was all bundled up and she asked what I did for work. I told he I was in daycare. I babysit grown men all day long. 🤣

[@jayebyrd00]

Ain't that the truth!

[@bigunone]

LOL I used to sub work with a biker excon general he would get mad for what every reason another sub, or material supplier, come over and start an argument with me, knowing that I wouldn't have my feeling hurt. We would be chest to chest nose to nose yelling, this would go on till I would ask him if he was okay now, he would grin and say yes and walk off . Since we had both been power lifters and built about the same, clinching a fist was never thought of because neither one of us could afford to pay the damages done to the building.

[@adamstone5946]

I call it Industrial Babysitting 😂

[@pnwRC.]

LOLZ! Now that's some funny stuff right there!

[@rickrobertbob]

A good general contractor laughs at their own jokes, no one else will.

[@peterflores2745]

My dad is a general contractor and owns 5 companies with a total of 230 employees and makes 650,000 a year and he is 50. He says it’s fully worth it because he uses the money to invest and I’m in the process of getting my GC license to join

[@isaiahj3968]

What type of companies does he own? Does he own some of his subcontractors? I'm 29 and been thinking of getting into this field.

[@markb.1259]

And then my question was answered!!! As I sat here watching this really great video, I thought to myself, gee... I wonder if Scott has ever written any books? He's got a wealth of information to share with folks. Then the video tells me where I can find Scott's book!!! You have the finest, most humble disposition Scott! Thank you for your videos!!!

[@edwardbrady8410]

I've watched your whole series and have to say, this is the most important episode. You managed to explain an extremely complicated and nuanced subject, thereby making it understanding to your followers. Thanks as always and keep up the good work!

[@raymondheckard234]

Having worked on contract for the federal government, I have learned in dealing with them, they have a requirement on their jobs for a materials inspector that keeps the general contractor honest, and makes sure the general contractor uses only the materials that are specified in the bid specs of the job. I saw a concrete slab that was laid down and 2 weeks later was removed and reported because the materials inspector found used the wrong concrete mixture formulation, which was ordered by the general contractor in a cost savings move. In the end the general contractor cost himself money because the removal and replacement of the slab was his burden which cost him way more than he saved. When my uncle had his house built he also hired a materials inspector to verify that the proper quality of products was used in the build of his house, and the general contractor did not cut corners. My uncle said it was the best money spent because the materials inspector kept the general contractor and all sub contractors honest. Maybe you can do a video on the pros and cons of a materials inspector in a build. Enjoy your videos, and as an American living in Ukraine , English videos are a must for entertainment.

[@psidvicious]

I’ve never really heard of a ‘materials inspector’ but in my experience all materials used by any subcontractor had to be formally submitted to the GC, who in turn submitted them to the architect, engineer and developer for approval. Then when the materials showed up on the job, the GC would confirm that they were indeed the materials that were submitted and what the GC was paying the sub to install. As far as concrete goes, [in my area] the developer always hires a materials testing and engineering company to sample (cylinders) all concrete pours (every 5th truck) and make sure they were the specified mix for whatever the application. Maybe it varies from place to place, but material inspections are performed by the GC as far as I’m familiar with.

[@raymondheckard234]

psidvicious the materials inspector is a third party construction inspector that is used on most all government construction projects and on high value construction projects to insure the quality of the building materials used in the construction. You can do a search on the web and you will find numerous building Materials inspectors job postings. The city of Fremont Ca actually had a job posting to hire construction materials inspector that paid up to $102k a year. Reading the posting you will see this posting is more about road building. What I remember in when my uncle was building his house was the Material inspector rejected a load of lumber because it was not the grade as was specified by the architect. To many knot holes in the lumber and according to the inspector was mis graded, and he called it a load of culls. The General Contractor blew a gasket several times because the materials inspector did not let anything slip by, and no invoice could be paid without the materials inspectors signature on the delivery invoice.

[@motor2of7]

Material substitution on a government contract can land you in jail. It’s a BIG deal.

[@raymondheckard234]

@@motor2of7 yes I know, but the General contractor on the project says it was a slip up in the paperwork at the time of ordering. The materials inspector caught it, but after the slab was poured.

[@bestbuilder1st]

@@raymondheckard234 Sound like the "inspector" might have been trying to make sure he had job security? If he didn't reject anything, people wouldn't think he was needed. Just saying.

[@csabapali]

I would like to thank you for a great and informative series that I can binge watch (and immediately feel the urge to build a house) - especially in these harsh times with the pandemic and self isolation. Please do keep up the great work!

[@nevinkuser9892]

Is the pandemic still going?

[@TheRepublicOfJohn]

Thanks for another great video! Whenever I get stuck in a rut, feel burned out, or start getting a "good-enough" attitude, I watch and listen to you. You're an inspiration, and a good man.

[@packerbacker9109]

You’re the most knowledgeable person on KZbin in my opinion. I enjoy every single one of your videos

[@DanielDaniel-ci6pj]

Mr.Scott. there is no substitute for knowledge and experience. You have paid your school fees and in my veiw you are one of the most interesting builders to watch on KZbin....Keep the videos coming, I have learnt so much from you...... Thank you.....

[@adamcosta4610]

Found the channel for a specific purpose and I am a full fledged fan now. First time I am seeing the intro and it's great.

[@nullrout556]

I can't tell you how to find the right GC, but I can tell you how to find the wrong one: get fixated on the lowest cost. I don't know how many times I need to learn that cheap and inexpensive are not the same. "Cheap" can cost you a lot of money in the long run.

[@jfbeam]

Indeed. Being cheap has cost more money and time than I can add up.

[@adampindell]

Cheap labor aint skilled, and skilled labor aint cheap

[@rockyneal3337]

Your 3 choices are ... Good. Fast. Cheap. Pick 2 and sacrifice the third.

[@pnwRC.]

100% truth!

[@brandonhatten3075]

I’m currently fixing work on two jobs from the cheapest contractor. Fine by me, because it means my employee and me both get paid, and now my clients will tell their friends.

[@beaubroshomesconstruction7295]

Gone are the days of a honest hand shake. Great content, thanks to you and Nate for all your long hours and extremely hard work. It benefits us all.

[@jcoul1sc]

Those days never existed

[@Bga1412]

To the ones who truly love it. The challenges, and delivering a good final product is what gets us up in the morning. There is no better feeling than delivering a good quality product at the end of it all.

[@josiahjohnson9922]

Best explanation I've seen. Makes me want to have prospective clients watch this before we talk!

[@dannydaze2959]

I can’t help but admire the awesome framing in the background. Great work guys👍🏼

[@psidvicious]

I was lucky to work for one of the good GCs for many years until retirement. We always made the ENR top 400 list (which might be a good place to start your search) and I knew all of the principals personally, and what kind of people they were. GCs collective reputation probably rank somewhere right in there with, politicians, bouncers, tow truck drivers and lawyers, but if you get a good one, you should breathe a sigh of relief bcz you’ll probably never really be able to fully appreciate the amount of ‘brain-damage’ they and their knowledge and experience can save you. A good one can really shield you from all the riff-raff out there you’d likely encounter on a project without one.

[@williamhilton6270]

I'm a YouthBuild teacher in Maine. I use your videos in class all the time. Thank you so very much!

[@essentialcraftsman]

Most welcome!

[@terencewinters2154]

That is what maine needs youth building as it's the state with the oldest median age.

[@CrimeDoesNotPay]

Getting Dr. James Dobson vibes from this man. I love it. Heart of a teacher.

[@AlexJosten]

Wow this is such an excellent description of what my dad does, he's a GC on very large, high-profile commercial projects.

[@MindFusion-ij1xl]

Am always appreciative of the capable, experienced, informed, particularly when they speak with such candor and openness. Look how far this video is from clickbait! Admirable.

[@phildcrow]

As a subcontractor, I have a little different view of what a GC does. He calls me out of the blue and says he needs me on the job tomorrow or else. He tells me he hasn't been paid yet, so there's no money for me. He says that he won't pay me for my work unless he gets paid for it. I don't have an agreement with the owner, I have an agreement with you. I don't care what you have to do to get your money. The list goes on and on. Having said all that, there's no way I would want to be a GC. I can't imagine having to put up with 15 of me on every job.

[@RodneyFisk]

I've worked for those GC's too. They're terrible.

[@kito1san]

Yea. Seen those type of GC. Those are some bad GC, which may either have bad company funding or they are just holding your money so they can leverage to more money in their account. Or they have bad project owners who also sucks at keeping the funding to flow per progress billings. Usually, if a project owner who does not have a certain % of funds in an escrow account, then things like this happens.

[@joemunoz1476]

I wont even respond to a GC..no thanks

[@cd2875]

That is about the size of it.

[@envy8468]

Generally the GC will have someone under him you can liaise with, who deals with most issues on site. You should pal up with him to get your money quicker. Or find a better employer I guess

[@moffettRL2727]

No matter what you're talking about, your videos keep me inspired and motivated to be better at my craft.

[@chrisbanham788]

This is a great video, and one that really hits home who the book stops with. I’ve been in the trade for nearly 25 years trained as a chippy. I have been covering general building for around the same sort of time. Recently undertaken a job....new banister with glass panels ( completed loads ) Customer decides what’s LED lights set into base rail to light through the glass as ambient lighting.....seemed feasible and a good idea. Problem was once glass was fitted and lights were on, it showed up every mark, blemish, smudge within the glass, that couldn’t be seen under normal daylight conditions. The time spent with the customer and glass company and independent reps trying to resolve the problem. Equally it was my problem to solve which the client was happy with. Thankfully all sorted but still a very testing.

[@Zurkive]

Do you happen to remember what the solution was?

[@davgao_]

A pleasure to listen to you talk with that demure casuality. Thank you

[@russellanderson3901]

Live in an area where we can do a lot on our own, knowing your limits is key though. Currently acting as the GC on our upcoming major landscaping project. There is a lot of time and thought that goes into significant projects, that if not done ahead of time, will definitely cost you more. When dealing with the subs on this, two things I look for are do they talk about or even better ask you about some of the details or do they keep things in broad strokes only. Detail oriented is a plus since you then know they have thought it through as well. Two, communication can not be underestimated. Had one sub that was non responsive for a bit. When he did call back, he had a reasonable reason for his lack of communication and a plan to improve communication in the future. Definitely a plus there too. Thank you Scott and Nate, for your videos. I nearly always learn something new, whether it be a technique, a tool I had not seen before (never worked in logging), or a perspective that helps me see things more clearly in my daily life.

[@Jon_Thunder]

You are awesome! Thank you for passing down all your knowledge. My grandfather was a carpenter and craftsman. Sadly he passed away before I could really appreciate and learn everything he did. I was young dumb kid in my teens, but now I am in my 30s and love carpentry and any sort of craftsmanship. Big or small. I really enjoy watching all your videos. I am excited about the next anvil give away, Lord willing. If you ever want to give away a small forge that would be awesome!

[@sandscribbler]

Actually, I found a LOT of what you said to be helpful - and I'm not even looking to build anything any time soon. Thanks for sharing what I imagine is some hard-earned wisdom!

[@erniewhite9595]

Im gonna tell you right now....stamped concrete once sealed is some of the most slippery surfaces when wet. I guarantee sombody is going to bite the dust on those stairs after a rain storm. I did a large pool deck for a customer last summer and he insisted on stamped concrete. I tried to talk him into a broom finish but he just loved the look of this stamped concrete, and the fact that he could color it. So fastforward 2 months after completion of the deck and he is in the hospital with his wife who has a broken wrist. Home owners do this to them selves instead of listening to the guy who does this for a living and knows what the end product will be. Stamped concrete should interior work or have grit added to the seal to make it suitable for outdoor use but it changes that nice shiny smooth.....slicker than owl snot on a wet rock, look.

[@essentialcraftsman]

I agree, gotta love exposed aggregate.

[@Gigabomber]

The point of hiring and paying for a good contractor is to be able to ask them what they think.

[@jake_god_of_sleep6564]

Well theres multiple ways of avoiding this and one of the easiest would be using a sealer or a sealer additive that provides better grip second use color hardener and broom that and if he really desperately wanted stamp then you should’ve charged more in order to get the point across.

[@Bouzoukiellas]

There is an anti slip aggregate that is clear but can be added to the seal coats. I’ve seen it before.

[@bobkraft4364]

Only channel about contracting I’ve seen where you’re actually working!!!

[@nights2747]

My uncle is a general contractor. One day I went to work with him and we went around town and talked with customers about jobs he was going to do. He said hes been doing carpentry for decades and is great at it, but its his ability to know and work with people that is his most valuable skill. That kind of surprised me then, but it makes more sense after watching this video.

[@RodneyFisk]

Totally right. A GC is a project manager. To manage people effectively is to build good relationships with them.

[@nikitaradion3301]

I’m 19 about to turn 20 and I just got my general contractors license in North Carolina yesterday👍

[@popgoestheweasel95]

I always enjoy watching your videos sir. It does bring back some nice memories however I was never able to make enough money to stay in the business mainly because of my inability to quote jobs properly. My subs and guys always got paid Leaving little left for me. The reason I got my B1 license here in California is because a couple of the contractors that I was working for as an apprentice were so incompetent I just figured if they could make money so can I. But I was young very naïve and was really very lucky something didn’t go too terribly wrong and wipe me out financially. So the risk definitely wasn’t worth the reward in my case. And I can see from watching how you operate I wasn’t even in the ballpark and should have never given it a try. Please keep your videos coming!! 👍

[@CivilDefenseEngineer]

Thanks! This was clear and helpful to explain what general contracting is all about. After watching this video, I decided to go for a career change from aerospace engineer to general contractor.

[@jesswynn9626]

This is beyond helpful and must surely be a benefit to anyone watching it - we had a house fire and appreciate any helpful information we can get to rebuild and move back in - thank you

[@AustinHansen]

Good point about the shady contractors. I helped a friend who was working as a subcontractor installing a roof for a big name, big money GC in our area. He bought the cheapest shingles he could find, didn’t provide enough underlayment, there wasn’t any chimney or dormer flashing, and when we had asked about the flashing, they told us to just reuse the old flashings that had nail holes all over them. We weren’t going to fight him on it, so we bought all new flashing metal (out of my buddy’s pocket) and replaced it. I don’t think he worked for that guy much longer after that.

[@gonstotwriter]

This is a great video. Back in 1983, my widowed mother decided to have our house enlarged so she contacted a GC (I'll call him Andy) and they drew up a contract. He told her that hers would be the only job he had so he could work at it FT. Well, a few weeks later (or longer), my mother went out to dinner with my brother and said, "Let's go by the house and see how it's coming along." When they got there, expecting it to be 50% or more completed, they saw that it was still more like 20%. My mother called Andy and asked for a status report. He said, "Well, lately I've gotten three other projects so yours hasn't exactly been my top priority." My mother asked him when she expected hers to be completed, and he said, "I really don't know. I get it done when I can, but I'm busy as hell right now with these other jobs." My mother said, "Andy, we signed a contract. Remember? You are under an obligation to me; I'm sort of your boss. Don't jerk me around like this." He said, "Don't give me a bloody hard time about it. I have your money and I will build you a house, but I can't give you a specific completion date. If you don't like it, too bad." So my mother told a coworker about this, and her colleague said, "My husband is a lawyer. Take him out to lunch and tell him about it. I'm sure he can help." So she did, and the lawyer said, "Andy isn't taking you seriously. He's being totally unethical and unscrupulous. Here's my home phone number; if he starts being an ass, call me right then and there so I can speak to him. I'll put my boot up his ass." Soon after that Andy was at our place and repeated, "I'm really busy and I'll be able to do some work on your house for one afternoon three weeks from Thursday. That's the best I can do." When my mother said, "How about making my house your top priority?" he literally laughed at her. She got on the phone to the lawyer and he said, "Oh, is Andy there? Let me speak to him." "Andy, my lawyer wants to speak to you," my mother said. So Andy got on the line and the lawyer basically said, "Andy, I'm the lawyer who's helping this lady. It sounds to me like you have a big problem over there and it's your problem, not hers. Better get your shit together and finish her house nice and fast because you signed that contract and you have a huge obligation to her. If you screw this up I could take you to small claims court and it would end up costing you some serious money. Understand?" So Andy relented and made my mother's house a top priority. But this story just goes to show that a GC an't pull the crap that Andy pulled and expect to get away with it.

[@rhymereason3449]

From personal experience... unless the contract explicitly states *"Time is of the essence"* and gives completion dates and what will be the consequences if late, the contractor can take all the time they want. "TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE" is the magic phrase that must be in a contract to have any chance of enforcing time constraints.

[@consuelaallen4372]

i love this guy i love how he explains things so simply, my kind of teacher

[@alvinnorris1977]

I'm well equipped to do and accomplish any job I except. I'm not the man but the right hand of the job. I mostly deal with vinyl siding but know enough to build most homes on my own. While my "boss" will tell me that's why I write the checkes" and says I pay you to do it so i don't have too" then turns to ask me how i should do things... i have so much to say but i just want to thank you for saying the one that makes the checks is the one is responsible for the outcome at completion. Wish all that made out payments know this. Great video my friend. God bless you and yours in this time of hysteria

[@deshawnmuhummadhaywood9195]

very informational video currently in school getting my general contractor license loving every moment of it 😎

[@mattschoular8844]

Thanks guys. Usually the lowest price is not the lowest cost!

[@4legdfishman]

I've never built a home and most likely, I never will. Im not a general contractor but, I can not take myself away from your videos. This is extremely helpful even to homeowner. Knowing what to expect and who to trust is extremely important. Thanks for the great content.

[@PotatoPlaysPiano]

No, YOU keep up the good work 👍 I'll be going off grid in the future and building my own house and these have been extremely useful 👌 Thanks to all involved!

[@deanaoxo]

This will now be required viewing for all clients that are not sure which way they should go. I think it does help, because it outlines exactly what the role is, why it is essential to get a trustworthy one, and whether or not you might need one, if the project is small. Again, thanks.

[@MrIown212]

At 8:50 you are saying how because the scope of the video is so broad it’s unlikely to be directly helpful; I want to let you know that this video actually helped me broaden the scope of my future and even reaffirm my self agency in the present. - 12 credits from a BS Civil Engr

[@kiyelchase85]

I’ve been in the trades for a while and am studying up for Oregon CCB license. I thoroughly enjoy and benefit from the information put forward by essential craftsman. Thank you

[@reynerioguevara2990]

All words were helpful to me. Thank you

[@ak_pmrjs]

I am a sophomore civil engineering student. I never thought i will be able to came across with this channel and learn a lot from this.❤️

[@amymichaelgoymerac4670]

Great video! I work as a civil engineer representing primarily municipal clients in the water and wastewater space. Many of these details ring true for the GCs that our clients are entering into contracts with. We are responsible for writing the plans and specification books that can be hundreds if not thousands of pages long but at the core are trying to protect our clients best interests. Many of the GCs are excellent with all of the correct personnel, equipment, technology, and relationships and it’s often our projects go very smoothly. But every once and awhile, especially in a low bid environment you get a poorly managed GC and that’s when we’re glad to have the right protections in place for our clients. Great vid Scott, applies to even the large projects and contractual relationships!

[@JoseJimenez-vw2cw]

Do you know what happened at Cochabamba, . . . engineers representing municipalities ROBBED the poor and snipers were sent in to murder protesters when they preotested being robbed . . . . . .

[@camperjack2620]

I am so old fashioned. Many years ago we worked for time and materials cost. The owner inspected and approved daily or weekly and paid you. Everyone involved expected the job to meet building inspector requirements, according to the plans. Now people second guess, set up bidding wars, have contractors and lawyers instead of knowing who to call and what kind of work they do. Pressure has ramped up and I like the old ways and simpler projects. For those people who are doing big high pressure projects, God bless you, and watch out. Too much stress can kill you just as quickly as falling off a roof. I think two rules Scott just reminded us of are a) Know the people you're dealing with, b) you mostly get what you pay for.

[@groundupcontracting7350]

Believe it or not from what I've heard the US is still less tough contractually than the UK. The UK doesn't export much anymore but making everything overly contractual seems to be something they are still exporting!

[@tonymcguckin1712]

Reading potential clients and avoiding bad ones is one of the most important things.

[@sdbassin1143]

As a current wanna be and aspiring to be a licensed contractor your words are invaluable. All your videos are extremely helpful, thank you good sir💪👍🤙

[@DotaProable]

I went to school in Columbus, and I always thought the way construction in the US is different from the rest of the world. Now that I'm working for a small GC in Southeast Asia, everything mentioned in the video is relatable even in this region.

[@DiamondSupplyC0]

Thank you. Just turned 25. Working on getting mine

[@DiamondSupplyC0]

My dads a contractor but he’s not the easiest to talk to. This really helped me rap my mind around all this. The contractor book I’m reading is so confusing. Feel like I’m reading nonsense sometimes

[@waldenhatton7313]

Great video so good to hear someone with a true understanding of The business from from all sides !!!!! I've been a Hands-On building contractor for 20 years there is so much to the building and so much to the business good to hear I'm not the only one trying to balance this

[@321phc]

Thank you, for all. You wouldn't imagine how much this is helping me.

[@clemkadiddlehopper7705]

I've rarely met anyone that I considered worth the risk to hire help and expand. That's why my niche is lone handyman. I'm way too consistent with my own skills to risk a big loss because of someone else's mistake.

[@motor2of7]

After many years in aerospace, I got a certificate in Construction Management at UCLA. The one thing that struck me is the way risk in commercial construction is pushed down to the lowest guy in the chain. The architect pushes it to the engineer, the engineer pushes it to the GC, the GC pushes it to the subs, the subs push it to the fabricators. The entire system is built on the threat of, and in many, many cases, actual lawsuit.

[@jonathanpopham5483]

All the nations liability can be traced to one ditch digger's helper's goldfish.

[@timavery7984]

Great and wise advice …snd nicely worded -I although I’ve been in business for myself some 40 years , I’m always learning and very much appreciate and your videos .

[@chrissmith-lp8zc]

I’m planning on getting into the industry and have not much experience. This was extremely helpful!

[@huguitoslow]

Your voice is pleasant to hear, you should record audiobooks

[@GGg-ug3jr]

This video could not have been timed any better for me. Sitting here this morning drinking my coffee contemplating my next move after being offered an enormous amount of work yesterday. The decision I'm grappling with here is if I should take it on, the amount of risk is high, the client has some serious character flaws and I'm a small contractor with only a couple guys working with me. Also, worried if I don't take this work will there be more work around the corner or are we entering an unknown phase in our lives with this virus. Dad used to be the one I would talk to during hard decisions like this but has passed away some years ago. Thinking I might not take this risk with this client this time.

[@IronsInTheFire-Official]

Same here; coffee and all Haha...My dad passed a few years ago too and was my mentor for all things work. Now I'm floating solo. Regarding the work, I might go either way. But I've had all kinds of big jobs that we passed on, all while swimming in the same anxiety of "what if that's one of my last opportunities? ". So far, there's always been more work in some shape or form. You stay on top of good work and treating folks fairly, you'll be good. But of course, no telling where we go from here with the pandemic shutdown. Hope it works out for you man, Best wishes!

[@saigmundur]

In the past I have taken on a few jobs where I felt something wasn't right. And against my better judgement I took it on anyway. And sure enough, given enough time, it went sour in one way or another. I'm not a general contractor though, I'm more on the architectural side, but I think the same principles apply. I understand that it can be necessary though, given the circumstances at the moment. But please be careful! Good luck! :)

[@johnhulsker9123]

When in doubt, put your bags on and work hourly,

[@stephenjohnson8728]

Your videos are very educational! Even for someone like me who has been building my whole life. Keep up the good work ur a good man!

[@mathiasholmin7855]

I wish that every singel client could watch this video. Very true.

[@Jovial_1]

Most of the words you speak are helpful to me, Sir. Thank-you.

[@MarkMitchellTheWhizard]

Great explanation of the role of GC. Thanks

[@juantransportador]

HELLO, from chihuahua mexico, thank you for the information and is good to know that my future house is going forward, thank you, GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

[@ricardomagnificent]

A General Contractor is a person who has in mind someone to blame when something goes wrong. :)

[@jvicente8315]

AMEN

[@Moparmaga-1]

You shed a new light on it for me definitely

[@edwardkenny2356]

Good stuff. Thank you.

[@ILoveAnchovies334]

Being a GC has shaved years off my life

[@jeffreypauli3077]

What do you mean?

[@cantubloodaxe768]

I think he's referring to the stress that comes with being at the center of a project.

[@johnhulsker9123]

Three wives and a broken back,

[@hexZ06]

@@johnhulsker9123 🤣🤣

[@ReubenRahmeyer]

Great video! Takes being a leader of men to be a contractor, and bearing responsibility is where true value lies!!!

[@amberkay2596]

Or a woman. I know great women GC’s. I plan on leasing myself when I get my license 😉

[@WhiteFox011]

A very well thought out video, covering at least the high points ofa general contractors job and responsibilities. Thank you, and may you keep up the good work! Be safe!

[@abewilcox4560]

You are such a wealth of wisdom. You really need to start a trade school.

[@weirdo804]

Thanks for the video now I want to watch the whole construction of a house since the beginning step by step 😀

[@cmm170526]

Your words have been very helpful. Thank you very much for your help.

[@feliciamdupree]

Wow. Thanks for the great points about being a GC.

[@williams6262]

As always Scott, well-said and on-point.

[@jum5238]

I loved hearing a different metaphor in "Less than a box of good screws." than I typically hear (and roll my eyes at) with "Less than a cup of coffee." The latter is usually tied to a "minor" tax increase. I don't know how many times I've heard this in my lifetime (and even when I was in office). And I don't even drink coffee... harumph!

[@thomascdurham9130]

As a contractor before I expose myself to the risk, what is your project and how big is your budget towards the project. If I know that their budget isn't close to what the project will cost. I'll still give them an estimate to give them an idea of a price they should expect but I've been in the game long enough knowing I'll make more walking away from a project than trying to for filll a pipe dream. :)

[@unpopularopinion149]

I’m a roofing contractor and I subcontract my labor. It is very true that the cheapest crews always have the biggest flaws. I leave my lower cost roofing crews for the 4/12 pitch 1 story houses. High labor cost crews are on the 12/12 hip/valley ice and water shield etc..subcontractors will often upset when the cheapest price.

[@calebmattix391]

Every word is solid gold ! thanks again

[@treyoates8211]

Everything I have ever heard you say was very valuable

[@JonBender3]

Thank you for your continued videos. Could you explain how a relatively new and young(ish) landlord & property manager should forge relationships with tradespeople? I am 31 and have been working with people that are both older and younger than myself.

[@ADwoods-ru8xh]

Thank you sir appreciate your show me timing was great from KZbin have a great season be safe

[@howardemery1443]

a good contractor is always worth a listening

[@rogiervantilburg3440]

Excellent explanation, thanks for sharing.

[@AlexanderSchrepfer]

That book would have been really useful for me a few years back. We got burned really hard by a GC who demanded a lot of money upfront, held our project hostage with delays when we pushed back, and basically made sure to keep our money in his pocket as long as possible. In the end we found that our GC not only lied to us and the subs, but faked invoices (fraud), caused many unnecessary delays, and in the end went bankrupt and left us with an unfinished house, and many subcontractors who demanded money from us (again). We're still trying finishing this house ourselves and dealing with the substantial Liens. We trusted the guy because of his previous work (wish we had spoken to people on his job sites, and previous customers) and because he was a local guy who seemed to have everything together. I figured we'd hate any GC we met and just went with it. Many lessons learned the hard way.

[@bigt4331]

I Am a framing contractor in Paradise, CA. I work strictly as a sub, I like working for GC thar are professional and know what they are doing,. Good insight.

[@wrxzboost]

finding a professional, honest, ethical general contractor is like finding a needle in a haystack. i'm currently going through a new construction with a GC and here are the headaches I've came across: 1) no matter what contract you have in place, the GC will always have the upper hand. your only recourse is a lawyer if you can afford one and not many people want to bother. 2) GC doesn't pay his subs or vendors - rarely will you be looped into all the purchases a GC makes so if you get a mechanics lien on your property because the GC didn't pay a supplier, good luck working that out. 3) GC decides to stop work - what are you going to do? call him when he doesn't pick up? he'll work on his terms when he wants, period. 4) holding your deposit and not allocating it as the project progresses - you'll be stuck with him holding onto your money if things go south 5) asking for more money - "prices have increased since so-and-so" or other excuses can be common. again, not a whole lot you can do especially if any of the above points are true. when you deal with GC's, they tell you what you want to hear up front and things drastically change when things don't go their way. architects aren't much better, but this entire industry is just awful to deal with based on my experience.

[@gunfisher4661]

It can get worse yet especially if the GC has practice at it and is fighting hard for that hefty bonus, Though i`ve seen them get cheated also.

[@justincunningham5457]

I’m a GC and there isn’t enough said about homeowners that also steer away from what the contract lines out. It can definitely go both ways. And from my experience the HO breaks contract most of the time. Just giving my experience. And it’s terrible you’ve had to deal with a GC like that.

[@wrxzboost]

@@justincunningham5457 good timing on your reply as i just broke my contract with my GC. i paid the GC $10k for metal studs in a draw back in Jan. i received a notice from the supplier last month to file a mechanics lien on my property. turns out, the GC hasn't paid the supplier in 3 months and won't pay them until the project progresses further. the project is stuck with a window order which will take 6-8 weeks. again, not saying all GC's are bad, but most are blue collar pieces of shit that can't manage their finances and pull all kinds of bullshit.

[@justincunningham5457]

Brofessor _ I’m really sorry you have to deal with that bullshit! I’m 25 and have been a GC since I was 19. I work very close with an architect. I am a finish carpenter and work 40+ hours a week with my bags on. I still cant seem to wrap my mind around how many shady contractors there are.

[@colinminks6918]

When i was a kid my heroes were spiderman, Superman and batman. As a grown man and a carpenter my heroes are my step dad ( a GC) Larry Haun and this man.

[@makemyday1477]

Be careful of the low bidder, often times they change order you to death during the project. That being said, don’t always go with the higher bid either, they may be just over charging and not delivering. Interview the potential contractor and find out if you can communicate and are on the same page. Although experience is good it’s not the only determining factor. New guys have to get their start and they may be worth talking to and they may have a lot of experience just not as the General which isn’t always bad. Set up a good pay plan that protects you and allows you to control the expenses. I have seen many contractors with years of experience that charge 10 times more than the job should cost and still do a half assed job.

[@arturczerwinski2616]

I'm not in construction, but I respect people doing REAL work out there in the heat, in the rain, in the wind, as those who manage them and are able to bind this all together. Lots of people doing office jobs nowadays are kind of... disconnected from reality, and definitely all sorts of craftsmen deserve more respect than they get today.

[@buckshot3732]

Not in rain ever Even a chicken finds cover I've been forced by job to get it done I tell them I'm not getting wet ever

[@alvaroschudeck957]

Good video, been a contractor is one.of the most trouble solving job anyone can have. And I dont know why anyone would like to be one , except for seing at the end theasterpiece, finished.