April 11, 2025 / By Bruno Clay
How to Choose the Right Approach for Your Construction Project with BrunoClay
When starting a construction project in Washington, D.C., Virginia, or Maryland, choosing the right project delivery method is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Two of the most commonly used methods are General Contracting and Construction Management—both of which BrunoClay provides.
While both roles ensure your project is completed successfully, they have distinct approaches, responsibilities, and benefits. The key is determining which option aligns best with your project’s complexity, budget, and level of owner involvement.
What Is a General Contractor (GC)?
A General Contractor (GC) is responsible for executing the construction phase of a project. Once the design is finalized, the GC takes charge of coordinating subcontractors, managing materials, ensuring compliance with building codes, and keeping the project on schedule and within budget.
Key Responsibilities of a General Contractor:
- Project Execution & Coordination – Manages all aspects of on-site construction from start to finish.
- Subcontractor Management – Hires, supervises, and ensures quality control of specialized subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, etc.).
- Permitting & Compliance – Secures necessary permits and ensures the project meets local regulations.
- Cost Control & Budgeting – Typically works under a fixed-price (lump sum) contract, providing cost predictability.
- Safety & Quality Assurance – Ensures adherence to safety protocols and high construction standards.
When Is General Contracting the Best Choice?
- When the project has a clearly defined scope and finalized design.
- When owners prefer a hands-off approach, allowing the contractor to handle all aspects of construction.
- When a fixed-price contract is preferred to maintain cost certainty.
- For straightforward renovations, tenant build-outs, or new construction requiring efficient execution.
Ideal Projects for General Contracting:
- Residential renovations (kitchens, bathrooms, home additions).
- Commercial tenant improvements (retail stores, restaurants, office spaces).
- New construction (single-family homes, small commercial buildings).
What Is a Construction Manager (CM)?
A Construction Manager (CM) is typically involved from the early planning stages, working alongside the owner and design team to ensure the project is built efficiently and cost-effectively. Unlike a General Contractor, a CM does not perform the construction work but oversees the project on behalf of the owner.
Key Responsibilities of a Construction Manager:
- Pre-Construction Planning – Works with architects and engineers to ensure the design is cost-effective and feasible.
- Budgeting & Cost Estimations – Provides detailed cost projections throughout the design and construction process.
- Risk Management & Compliance – Identifies potential challenges early, ensuring smoother project execution.
- Subcontractor Coordination – Helps select and coordinate subcontractors, but does not hire them directly.
- Project Oversight & Owner Representation – Acts as an advisor to the owner, ensuring quality, efficiency, and budget control.
When Is Construction Management the Best Choice?
- When the project is large or complex and requires strategic planning before construction begins.
- When owners want greater transparency and involvement in decision-making.
- When a flexible, open-book cost structure (rather than a fixed-price contract) is preferred.
- When multiple stakeholders, phases, or regulatory approvals are involved.
Ideal Projects for Construction Management:
- Large commercial developments (office buildings, mixed-use properties).
- Historic renovations (adaptive reuse projects, government buildings).
- Multifamily residential developments (apartment complexes, condo conversions).
Key Differences Between General Contracting and Construction Management
| Feature | General Contractor (GC) | Construction Manager (CM) |
|---|---|---|
| When They Get Involved | After the design is finalized. | From the early planning stages. |
| Primary Role | Executes and manages construction. | Advises, oversees, and coordinates the project. |
| Subcontractor Management | Hires and manages subcontractors. | Assists in subcontractor selection; owner contracts them directly. |
| Budgeting Approach | Fixed-price contract for cost certainty. | Fee-based structure, offering greater cost transparency. |
| Owner’s Involvement | Less involvement; GC takes full responsibility. | More collaborative; CM provides advisory and oversight services. |
| Best for | Straightforward projects with a defined scope. | Complex projects requiring strategic oversight and flexibility. |
How BrunoClay Helps You Choose the Right Approach
Since BrunoClay provides both General Contracting and Construction Management services, we help clients determine the best approach based on the size, complexity, and goals of their project.
When BrunoClay Acts as a General Contractor
If your project requires seamless execution, hands-off management, and a predictable budget, BrunoClay takes full responsibility for construction quality, subcontractor coordination, and project completion.
When BrunoClay Acts as a Construction Manager
For large-scale developments, highly complex projects, or those needing early-stage strategic input, BrunoClay provides expert oversight, helping owners make informed decisions while maintaining cost efficiency.
Why Clients Trust BrunoClay for Both General Contracting and Construction Management
- Extensive Industry Expertise – Decades of experience managing projects of all sizes.
- Local Knowledge – Deep understanding of regulations in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland.
- Trusted Network – Strong relationships with high-quality subcontractors and suppliers.
- Client-First Approach – Whether acting as a GC or CM, we tailor our services to meet the specific needs of each project.
Not sure which approach is right for your project? Contact BrunoClay today to schedule a consultation!
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a General Contractor and a Construction Manager depends on your project’s complexity, budget structure, and desired level of involvement.
Since BrunoClay offers both services, we help clients navigate their options and ensure the best path forward for their unique needs. Whether you need a trusted contractor to execute your vision or a strategic construction manager to oversee every detail, BrunoClay is your partner in delivering successful projects.
Let’s build something great together. Contact us today to discuss your project needs!
FAQs: General Contractor vs. Construction Manager
- How is a General Contractor (GC) different from a Construction Manager (CM)?
As mentioned earlier, a General Contractor is responsible for executing the construction, managing subcontractors, and ensuring the project stays on schedule and within budget. A Construction Manager, on the other hand, advises and oversees the project from the early planning stages but does not directly perform the construction work. - When should I hire a General Contractor instead of a Construction Manager?
If your project has a finalized design and you prefer a hands-off approach with a fixed-price contract, a General Contractor is the better choice. For complex projects requiring early-stage planning and flexibility in budgeting, a Construction Manager may be more suitable. - Does a Construction Manager hire subcontractors?
No. Unlike a General Contractor who hires and manages subcontractors directly, a Construction Manager assists the owner in selecting subcontractors, but contracts are made between the owner and the subcontractors. - Which option gives me more control over the project?
A Construction Manager provides greater transparency and owner involvement in decision-making, while a General Contractor takes full responsibility for execution, allowing for a more hands-off experience. - Does BrunoClay offer both services?
Yes. BrunoClay provides both General Contracting and Construction Management services, helping clients determine the best approach based on their project’s size, complexity, and budget structure.