What does a general contractor scope of work include?

It covers the GC's responsibilities for managing the entire project — scheduling, subcontractor coordination, budget tracking, quality control, permitting, and closeout. It's the master agreement between the GC and the owner.

How is a GC scope different from a subcontractor scope?

A GC scope covers project management and coordination. A sub scope covers the actual trade work. The GC doesn't typically swing a hammer — they make sure the right people do, in the right order.

What's the typical GC fee structure?

GCs usually charge either a fixed percentage of the project cost (typically 10-20%) or work on a cost-plus basis with a fixed fee. The structure should be clearly defined in the contract.

Who pulls the building permits?

The GC typically pulls all building permits. Some jurisdictions require specific trade licenses for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing permits — those are usually pulled by the respective subs.

Can I modify this template?

Absolutely. Every project is different. Adjust the scope categories, timeline, and payment terms to match your specific project and delivery method.

General Contractor Scope of Work Template | Free Download 2026

A general contractor's scope of work is different from a trade-specific one. You're not just describing your own tasks — you're defining how the entire project gets managed, who handles what, and how all the pieces fit together. This template covers the GC's responsibilities from pre-construction through closeout. It's built for residential and commercial projects where you're coordinating multiple subs, managing the schedule, and keeping the client informed. Customize it for your project size and delivery method, and you'll have a clear agreement that protects both you and the owner.

Project Overview

This scope covers general contractor services including pre-construction planning, subcontractor coordination, scheduling, quality control, budget management, and project closeout.

Typical Projects Include:

New home construction
Commercial build-out
Major residential renovation
Multi-family construction
Retail or restaurant build-out
Mixed-use development

Scope of Work

Pre-Construction

Task	Description
Project Planning	Review plans and specs, develop a project schedule, and establish the construction budget.
Permitting	Pull all required building permits and coordinate inspections with the local authority.
Subcontractor Selection	Solicit bids, vet subcontractors, and issue subcontracts for each trade.
Site Mobilization	Set up temporary facilities, fencing, dumpsters, and site access for construction.

Construction Management

Task	Description
Schedule Management	Maintain and update the project schedule. Coordinate trade sequencing to avoid conflicts.
Subcontractor Coordination	Manage day-to-day sub activities, resolve conflicts, and ensure work meets plans and specs.
Quality Control	Inspect work in progress. Catch issues before they become problems.
Budget Tracking	Track costs against the budget, process change orders, and manage draw requests.

Closeout

Task	Description
Punch List	Walk the project with the owner to create a punch list. Ensure all items are completed.
Final Inspections	Schedule and pass all required final inspections and obtain the certificate of occupancy.
Documentation	Compile as-built drawings, warranties, lien waivers, and O&M manuals for the owner.
Final Payment	Submit the final pay application and close out all subcontractor accounts.

Timeline & Milestones

GC project timelines vary dramatically based on scope. A kitchen remodel might be 6 weeks; new construction can be 6-12 months or more.

Phase	Duration	Description
Pre-Construction	2-8 weeks	Planning, permitting, subcontractor buyout, and site mobilization.
Construction	2-12 months	Active construction from groundbreaking through substantial completion.
Closeout	2-4 weeks	Punch list completion, final inspections, and documentation turnover.

Roles & Responsibilities

Property Owner / Client

•Provide complete plans and specifications
•Make timely decisions on selections and change orders
•Process draw requests within the agreed timeframe
•Provide site access as needed

General Contractor

•Manage the overall project schedule and budget
•Hire, coordinate, and supervise all subcontractors
•Maintain site safety and cleanliness
•Communicate project status to the owner regularly
•Ensure all work meets code and plan requirements

Materials & Equipment

Project Management

•Construction scheduling software
•Plan sets and spec books
•Daily logs and inspection forms

Site Setup

•Temporary fencing and signage
•Job site trailer or office
•Temporary power and water connections

Safety

•First aid kit
•Fire extinguishers
•OSHA-required signage and postings

Quality Control Standards

Plan Compliance

All work matches the approved plans and specifications. Deviations require written approval.

Code Compliance

All work passes required inspections and meets local building codes.

Workmanship

Finished work is clean, professional, and meets industry standards for the trade.

Safety Protocols

Site Safety Plan

Maintain a written safety plan. Hold regular safety meetings with all trades on site.

OSHA Compliance

Ensure all work complies with OSHA standards. Post required notices and maintain safety records.

PPE Requirements

Hard hats, safety glasses, and appropriate footwear required for all personnel on site.

Project Documentation

Signed contract and scope of work
Building permits
Project schedule
Subcontractor agreements
Change orders
Daily logs and inspection reports
Lien waivers
Warranties and O&M manuals

Financial Terms

Payment Structure

GC contracts are typically structured as a lump sum or cost-plus arrangement with monthly draw requests tied to progress.

Terms & Conditions

•Deposit due at contract signing (typically 10-20%)
•Monthly progress payments based on completed work
•Retainage held until substantial completion (typically 5-10%)
•Change orders approved in writing before work begins
•Final payment due after punch list completion and closeout

Acceptance Criteria & Sign-Off

The project is considered complete when the following criteria are met:

1All work completed per plans and specifications
2All inspections passed and certificate of occupancy issued
3Punch list items resolved
4Closeout documents delivered to the owner
5Site cleaned and restored
6All lien waivers collected

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Use This General Contractor Template?

Fill in your project details and download a professional, customized scope of work PDF in seconds.

General Contractor Scope of Work Template