Permitting Services Podcast
Permitting Services Podcast
Gail Lucas
The Pros and Cons of Being Your Own General Contractor
19 minutes Posted Oct 2, 2025 at 6:00 pm.
Welcome & Guest Reintroduction
Why This Topic Is “Hot”
Pros: Cost, Control, and Satisfaction
Hidden Costs, Delays, and Skill Gaps
Permit Responsibility and Liability
Licensing, MHIC, and Consumer Protections
Field Examples: When It Goes Wrong
Primary Residence Rules and Limits
DPS Resources: Website and 311 Help
New Home Builds: Extra Requirements
Decide: Time, Skills, and Hiring Subs
How to Reach DPS & Closing
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Show notes
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 ...