A general contractor agreement is, as the name implies, generally an agreement between the owner of real estate and a building contractor for services to manage the construction (and sometimes the design) of a residential or commercial building according to certain specifications or plans provided by the owner.

A general contractor agreement includes a description of the scope of the work to be performed; the materials to be used; the general contractor’s obligations to hire and manage subcontractors to construct the various components of the building; the payment terms for the construction of the building and the management of the construction; the time for completion of the work; insurance requirements; and the filing and removal of mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens (also known as construction liens or contractor liens) for labor and materials provided to improve the real estate.

In Rhode Island, a general contractor agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines the relationship and obligations between a property owner and a general contractor hired for construction projects. This agreement typically includes detailed provisions regarding the scope of work, materials to be used, the contractor's responsibilities in hiring and managing subcontractors, payment schedules, completion timelines, insurance requirements, and the handling of mechanic's and materialmen's liens. Rhode Island law requires that contracts for home construction and remodeling be in writing if the cost of the project is more than $1,000. The Rhode Island Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board provides regulations and oversight for contractors in the state, ensuring compliance with state laws and standards. It is important for both parties to clearly understand and agree upon the terms of the contract to avoid disputes and ensure legal protections. An attorney can help draft or review a general contractor agreement to ensure it complies with Rhode Island laws and adequately protects the interests of the parties involved.