How To Become A General Contractor In Texas 15 Expert Tips

A degree in civil engineering, construction management, or construction technology from a 4-year college or university can provide you with the needed skills and credentials. [2] X Research source

Remember, you can always work up to a better position.

It’s a good idea to watch how your construction managers perform their jobs as well so that you have a good idea of what the job entails. Volunteer to assist others with tasks you can perform so that you can watch up close how they perform their job. For example, you might offer to hold an item in place while it’s installed, or you might offer to perform a supportive task such as handing over supplies.

You’ll be required to pass a test and pay a fee to attain your license. Fees vary depending on what type of license you need. Check online to locate a testing site in your area.

For example, the City of San Antonio requires general contractors to register with the city if they plan to do home improvement or residential construction projects. Since this applies to many contractors, it’s a good idea to contact the city and complete the necessary paperwork. Home improvement contractors would pay $75 per year, while construction contractors pay $170 every two years. [8] X Research source

You will pay a separate fee for your background search, which commonly costs about $25.

Keep business cards of people you meet. If someone offers to help your career, get their contact information and stay in touch. Remember that the person who is working beside you today may be able to help you secure a contract in the future.

It’s a good idea to come up with 3 different name options to ensure that 1 is approved. The state will not let you use a name that is already in use or is too similar to 1 that is in use. For example, you may not get approval for Top Builder if there is already a Top Building in operation. Alternatively, you could do business under your own name or register as a DBL, which means “Doing Business As. ”[12] X Research source

If you choose to form a partnership, corporation, or LLC, you will need to file paperwork with the Secretary of State’s office. You will need to either consult a lawyer or use a legal help website. If you plan on hiring employees, you should apply for an Employer Identification Number with the federal government. You can do that by visiting https://www. irs. gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online. You will also need to register your company to pay taxes in Texas by visiting https://comptroller. texas. gov/errors/404. php.

You may be able to find a template for your business plan by looking online. [15] X Research source

Depending on the scale of your jobs, you may need to purchase additional policies for some jobs. It’s a good idea to check with your insurer to make sure that you are covered. You may need to provide documentation proving you’re insured before you are able to pull permits. [18] X Research source

You and your business will need a good credit score. You may want to explore other options, such as attracting investors or borrowing from family.

For example, you could go into a business whose facade is damaged and offer them your services.

In some cases, you may need to pull multiple permits. For example, you may need a demolition permit to tear down a wall and a remodel permit to rebuild it. The fee will vary, so check costs in your county before submitting a quote. You should include the fee in your cost estimation. If the area you’re working in has a lot of construction jobs happening at 1 time, such as after a natural disaster, it may take more time for your permit to get approval.

You can consult the Texas Minimum Construction Standards by visiting https://www. tdhca. state. tx. us/single-family/training/docs/14-TMCS. pdf.