General contractor (GC): definition, example, and why it matters

Manages subs, schedule, permits, and the customer relationship. Typically marks up sub work 15–20%. License requirements vary by state and project size.

• Short definition. The lead contractor responsible for coordinating a construction project.
• Category. General contractor (GC) is a trades term used by service businesses when billing customers.
• How Glo Invoice handles it. Glo Invoice builds general contractor (gc) into the invoice itself, so you don't track it on paper or in a spreadsheet.

Frequently asked questions

What does general contractor (gc) mean?

Manages subs, schedule, permits, and the customer relationship. Typically marks up sub work 15–20%. License requirements vary by state and project size.

Related terms

• Subcontractor — A specialist hired by a general contractor to perform a portion of the work.
• Construction — Skilled trades that build, remodel, or repair structures.