The Pros and Cons of Being Your Own General Contractor

Permitting Services Podcast

This Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode focuses on the pros and cons of serving as your own general contractor when embarking on home renovations or other residential projects. David Burch, DPS residential inspections manager, and DPS Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, discuss the risks and rewards of doing it yourself. Their conversation covers what homeowners should know before taking on the responsibility of managing a project, and why it is an important decision.

Tune in to learn about:

• What you should know before you begin a project.
• The importance of hiring licensed contractors.
• The difference between contractors and subcontractors.
• Who should apply for the permits?
• How DPS can help, including resources to know about.

Previous DPS Podcast episodes have covered a variety of topics, including accessory dwelling units, building safety, eSolar, new codes, residential fast-track permits, special event permits, use and occupancy certificates, vendor licenses, and more.

Do you have a question or idea for a future DPS Podcast episode? Email us at [email protected]

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1. The Pros and Cons of Being Your Own General Contractor (00:00:00)

2. Welcome & Guest Reintroduction (00:00:10)

3. Why This Topic Is “Hot” (00:01:44)

4. Pros: Cost, Control, and Satisfaction (00:03:24)

5. Hidden Costs, Delays, and Skill Gaps (00:05:15)

6. Permit Responsibility and Liability (00:06:52)

7. Licensing, MHIC, and Consumer Protections (00:08:58)

8. Field Examples: When It Goes Wrong (00:09:49)

9. Primary Residence Rules and Limits (00:11:36)

10. DPS Resources: Website and 311 Help (00:12:29)

11. New Home Builds: Extra Requirements (00:14:04)

12. Decide: Time, Skills, and Hiring Subs (00:15:39)

13. How to Reach DPS & Closing (00:17:03)