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October 20, 2022

In the construction industry, the terms “construction manager” and “general contractor” are often used interchangeably. However, these two roles have distinct responsibilities, especially before construction begins. Understanding the differences between a construction manager and a general contractor is crucial for selecting the right professional for your project. 

While both roles involve overseeing construction, the construction manager is involved much earlier in the process, during the preconstruction phase, providing valuable input into design, cost estimates, and planning. In contrast, a general contractor typically joins the project once the design is complete and the construction phase is ready to begin. 

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the two roles: 

What is a Construction Manager?

A construction manager is a professional who plays a key role during the early stages of a project, often working alongside the architect and owner. Their responsibilities include providing expert advice on construction methods, selecting materials, advising on costs, and creating timelines. Their involvement helps ensure that the project is well-planned before breaking ground, ultimately saving time and money. 

Key Preconstruction Responsibilities of a Construction Manager:

• Providing Design Advice: A construction manager offers recommendations from a builder’s perspective. They advise the architect and owner on site use, material selection, building systems, and equipment, ensuring that the design is feasible and cost-effective. Their expertise can also help reduce costs by recommending alternatives or more efficient materials. 
• Scheduling, Procurement, and Sequencing: Construction managers provide valuable input into project timelines, offering suggestions on accelerated scheduling or phased construction. They also help coordinate procurement, ensuring that materials are available when needed, reducing delays during the construction phase. 
• Cost Estimation: From the outset, a construction manager is responsible for providing preliminary cost estimates. These estimates are refined as the design progresses, ensuring that the project stays within budget and that the scope of work aligns with financial expectations. 
• Creating a Procurement Schedule: The construction manager develops a procurement schedule, ensuring that materials that need to be ordered in advance are secured in time for construction. In some cases, they can expedite the ordering process to prevent delays. 
• Subcontracting Plans: Once the design phase is complete, the construction manager helps create a subcontracting plan for carrying out the work. This involves identifying qualified subcontractors and ensuring that the project is executed as per the schedule and budget. 

What is a General Contractor?

A general contractor typically takes over once the design is finalized. They are responsible for the day-to-day management of the construction site, including supervising labor, managing subcontractors, and ensuring the project runs according to the design and timeline set out by the construction manager and architect. 

Key Responsibilities of a General Contractor:

• Overseeing Construction: A general contractor coordinates the work on the construction site, managing subcontractors and ensuring that each phase of the construction process is completed on schedule. 
• Ensuring Safety and Compliance: They are responsible for maintaining safety standards and ensuring that the construction work complies with local building codes and regulations. 
• Managing Budgets and Payments: A general contractor is tasked with managing the budget during the construction phase, tracking costs, and ensuring that payments to subcontractors and suppliers are made on time. 

Key Differences in Preconstruction Responsibilities

Design Advice and Guidance:

A construction manager provides valuable input during the design process to ensure the project is constructible and cost-effective. A general contractor typically steps in after the design phase, focusing on execution. 

Scheduling, Procurement, and Sequencing:

The construction manager plays a critical role in planning and scheduling the project, while the general contractor executes the plan once construction begins. 

Cost Estimates and Procurement:

Construction managers provide initial and updated cost estimates during the design phase, whereas general contractors manage costs once the project is underway, ensuring the budget stays on track. 

Subcontracting Plans:

The construction manager develops a subcontracting plan before construction begins, whereas the general contractor is responsible for managing subcontractors during the construction phase. 

Which Role is Best for Your Project?

Deciding between a construction manager and a general contractor depends on the needs of your project. If you require detailed planning, cost estimation, and design input before the construction begins, a construction manager may be the right choice. However, if your project is already designed and you need someone to manage the construction process, a general contractor will likely be more suitable. 

For more information about construction manager roles and responsibilities, click here.

AIA Contract Documents has provided this article for general informational purposes only. The information provided is not legal opinion or legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship of any kind. This article is also not intended to provide guidance as to how project parties should interpret their specific contracts or resolve contract disputes, as those decisions will need to be made in consultation with legal counsel, insurance counsel, and other professionals, and based upon a multitude of factors.