Homeowner Guides
Plain-language guides to hiring contractors, contracts, liens and protecting yourself on a construction project in North Carolina. Questions about your project? Contact AGCS.
- Hiring a Licensed General Contractor in North Carolina
- What a Licensed GC Does That an Unlicensed 'Project Manager' Legally Cannot
- Mechanics Liens in North Carolina: How to Protect Your Land From Subcontractor Non-Payment
Before you hire anyone
The most expensive construction problems usually start before the first board goes up: a vague scope, a missing permit or a contractor who is not licensed for the size of the job. These guides walk through the questions to ask and the documents to get so you can compare bids on equal terms.
Start by writing down what you want built, your rough budget and your timeline. Then ask each contractor for their NC license number, a written scope of work, a payment schedule tied to completed work, and who pulls the permits.
Contracts, payments and liens
A clear written contract protects both sides. It should list the work included and excluded, the materials, how change orders are priced and approved, and when payments are due. Avoid paying large sums up front for work that has not started.
North Carolina has a lien system that lets unpaid contractors and suppliers file claims against a property. Understanding how lien agents and lien waivers work helps you avoid paying twice for the same work. Our guides explain these steps in plain language.
How AGCS works with homeowners
AGCS Home Solutions is a licensed North Carolina general contractor (NCLBGC #106996) based in Crouse. Our own crew does the core construction, and we bring in specialty subcontractors for the trades that need them, all under one contract. We handle the required permits and inspections. If you have a question that is not covered here, request a free estimate or call (980) 888-3107.