A general contractor (GC) is responsible for the means and methods to be used in the construction execution of the project in accordance with the contract documents. Contract agreement typically includes budget, general and specific conditions, and plans and specifications of the project provided by the architect.

A General Contractor is responsible for the materials, labor, equipment, and services necessary for the construction of the project.

Owner as General Contractor
Under these conditions the owner takes on the risk for the proper sequence of the work and dealing with the realities of the construction industry.

Owners considering this approach should keep in mind that a General Contractor or Construction Manager makes a living working with known subcontractors who have established relationships that will outlast a single construction project. Owners seldom have this advantage, and most subcontractors will recognize the risk of working with a one time client with higher bids.