Many DIY-ers love a good home project, anything from adding shelving structures to walls and replacing kitchen countertops, these tasks can range from super simple to pretty difficult, with extensive knowledge required for a successful outcome.
It’s important to understand which projects you are capable of doing on your own (or with the help of friends) and which projects will require a professional. There are some specific projects that may require a permit or license, which you can obtain, but if you don’t have that yet, you will need to hire a professional.
Table Of Contents
When to Call a Contractor
There are many things that the average person can repair in their own homes without calling a contractor or other professional. Certain plumbing problems can be fixed without a plumber and a dirty HVAC filter does not require a specialist. Even replacing a faulty outlet does not require an electrician, if you’re comfortable with working with electricity.
You should definitely call a contractor for major home renovations, though. These types of projects usually last longer than a week, and some require specific licenses and permits. Certain construction projects are actually illegal to attempt if you are not properly licensed. This applies to those not in the construction field, as well as contractors not licensed for a specific task.
The Different Types of Contractors
All contractors must be licensed, according to certain state rules and regulations. With that, here are the different types of contractors based on the type of work being done.
1. General Contractor Type A
Type A contractors specialize in engineering projects like bridges, skyscrapers, and other large structures. They also focus on construction related to water, like water supply, flood control, and drainage, river control, irrigation, sewers, etc.
When it comes to home renovations, these aren’t the type of contractors you’d be calling. You may be able to call them if you want to build a backyard pool, but they would probably just subcontract a pool contractor to build your pool.
2. General Contractor Type B
If home improvement is your thing, then this is the path for you. Type B contractors can build both residential and commercial buildings, including laying the foundation, building the entire structure, remodeling homes, and adding on to homes or other buildings.
So if you’re doing major renovations or you’re wanting to add on an extra room to your home, you’ll likely be working with a Type B contractor.
3. General Contractor Type C
Type C contractors are the specialists. Specializations include HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work. When your HVAC, plumbing, and electrical issues become too much for you to handle, this is the type of specialist that you will be hiring.
For example, when your air conditioner isn’t working, even when you’ve changed the filter, it’s probably time to call an HVAC service. If your toilet keeps overflowing, the water pressure is low, or if you have no hot water at all, then it’s time to call the plumber. Always call an electrician if you discover frayed wiring.
How Do I Become a Contractor?
If you’re good with your hands or already pretty handy around the house, then you may consider becoming a contractor. Just be sure to check your state licensing requirements to ensure you’re following the right steps.
Do Contractors Make Good Money?
When you consider pursuing any job, whether it’s your first job or you’re looking for a career change, you want to make sure that you can make a decent living off of the salary. According to ZipRecruiter, independent contractors make an average of $27 per hour, and home improvement contracts up to $120,000 per year, according to Zippia.
Whether you’re looking for a contractor to hire for a specific task, or if you are looking to get into contracting work yourself, it’s good to have a working knowledge of the different types of contractors. It’s also essential to know when you (an unlicensed individual) are incapable of doing certain projects.
