ALO General Contractor

Texas does not issue a statewide residential general contractor license. Specialized trades such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC require state or regulatory licenses. The City of San Antonio requires permits and may require local registration for certain contractors or types of work. Ask the contractor for proof of any required trade licenses, City of San Antonio registration or permit numbers, and current insurance (general liability and, if applicable, workers' compensation).

Most homeowners hire the general contractor to pull required building permits from the City of San Antonio Development Services and to schedule city inspections. Major work — structural changes, additions, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof work — typically requires permits and sequential inspections. Ensure the contract states who is responsible for permits and that permit numbers and inspection requirements will be provided and met. Permitting ensures compliance with the adopted building codes and local amendments (including wind, energy or flood-related requirements).

Get a written contract that clearly lists scope of work, materials, start and completion dates, payment schedule, change-order procedures, who is responsible for permits, and proof of insurance and required trade licenses. Expect manufacturer warranties on materials and a contractor workmanship warranty — lengths vary and should be written into the contract. In Texas a contractor can file a mechanic's lien for unpaid work, so require lien waivers as payments are made and verify a final lien release before final payment. Also include language about schedule impacts from local weather (heat, heavy rains, hail) and final inspection/acceptance procedures.