Unlike a specialized contractor, a general contractor (GC) oversees all onsite aspects of a construction project. Whether the GC, any employees or any subcontractors do the work, this is the person you call about everything.
*Warning: Beware of unscrupulous contractors that suggest you, as the homeowner, secure the permit in your name. The permit holder is legally responsible for the completion of the job to code standards.
Contractors are licensed to ensure that they are competent and capable of meeting the relevant technical and safety standards for your project. Each license type has a defined set of competence criteria that contractors must meet to achieve and maintain a license.