Who hires the contractor?

The hiring of a contractor is typically undertaken by the owner of the project. The owner is the individual or entity that will ultimately benefit from the construction or renovation work being conducted and is responsible for the overall direction and financing of the project. They engage contractors to fulfill the necessary construction services, ensuring that the project meets their specifications and requirements.

In this context, the owner's role is essential because they determine the project's scope, budget, and timeline, and select a contractor based on the contractor's qualifications, experience, and proposed plans. The relationship established between the owner and the contractor is foundational for the project, making it crucial for the owner to carefully choose a contractor who aligns with their vision and needs.

While subcontractors often work under a main contractor to perform specialized tasks, they do not independently hire the main contractor. A city may be involved in the regulatory and permitting aspects of the project, but it does not hire the contractor. The registered design professional (RDP), who is typically an architect or engineer, may provide project oversight or design but does not have the authority to hire the contractor on behalf of the owner. Thus, the owner is the correct answer as they are the party responsible for hiring the contractor.