Why Hire A General Contractor?

When planning a remodel or new build, some homeowners ask themselves: “Do I really need a general contractor?” At first glance, it can be tempting to think of a GC as just another layer of cost. After all, couldn’t you just hire the plumber, electrician, and carpenter yourself?

The truth is, a general contractor does far more than simply coordinate. In fact, trying to run your own project without one often leads to blown budgets, missed deadlines, and costly mistakes. Here’s why working with a professional general contractor like Westwood Builders is essential to the success of your project.

1. Project Management is a Full-Time Job

Building or remodeling a home involves dozens of moving parts. Permits, inspections, subcontractor schedules, supply chains, and unexpected issues all need to be managed. Without experience, it’s easy for a project to stall—or worse, go backward. A GC keeps everything moving, making sure the right people are in the right place at the right time so your project stays on track.

2. Quality Control You Can Trust

Not all work is created equal. A general contractor has established relationships with trusted subcontractors and knows what to look for when it comes to workmanship. Without that oversight, homeowners often end up paying to redo work that wasn’t done correctly the first time.

3. Cost Savings in the Long Run

While it may seem like hiring subcontractors directly saves money, the reality is the opposite. A GC can often secure better pricing due to volume and relationships. More importantly, catching mistakes early saves thousands compared to fixing them later.

4. Navigating Codes and Permits

Every municipality, including Bozeman, has specific building codes and permitting processes. Missing a step can delay your project or even result in fines. A general contractor understands the local requirements and ensures your project is compliant from start to finish.

5. Protecting Your Investment

One of the biggest risks of trying to GC your own project is liability. If an unlicensed subcontractor is injured on your property, you could be held responsible. A professional GC carries the proper licenses and insurance to protect both you and your home.

What Can Go Wrong Without a GC?

We’ve seen it firsthand when homeowners try to run projects themselves:

• Poor building assemblies that led to leaking windows and water damage almost immediately.

• Subcontractors leaving behind sloppy work, forcing homeowners to redo it themselves because they couldn’t afford to pay someone else to fix it.

• Painters overspraying and ruining floors, trim, and windows.

• Miscommunication between homeowners and tradespeople, resulting in completely bad assemblies and poorly executed finish details.

These are not small inconveniences—they’re costly, frustrating setbacks that could have been avoided with proper oversight.

Westwood Builders: Your Partner from Start to Finish

At Westwood Builders, we believe our role as a general contractor is to protect your time, your money, and your peace of mind. We’re not just a middleman—we’re your advocate, making sure every detail of your project is handled with care.

If you’re planning a remodel, addition, or new build in Bozeman, let’s talk. We’ll manage the details so you can enjoy the process—and the finished product—without the stress.

👉 Contact Westwood Builders today to start your project the right way.