AI for Builders: How Contractors Can Start Using Artificial Intelligence Today

AI isn’t the future of construction, it’s already here.

And according to James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch, the contractors who start learning it now will lead the next decade of the industry.

In this episode of Construction Champions, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with James to break down how builders can start using AI today, not as a theory, but as a practical jobsite tool.

The Next “Paint Sprayer Moment” in Construction

Every major innovation in construction started with skepticism. Smartphones. Paint sprayers. Drones.

AI is no different.

James compares it to the early days of power tools, something builders didn’t think they needed until it became obvious that they couldn’t compete without them.

“AI isn’t replacing people. It’s replacing paperwork, mistakes, and wasted time.”

That’s why companies like LiveSwitch are building AI-powered tools that make jobsite documentation faster, smarter, and more reliable.

Where Contractors Should Start

You don’t need to spend thousands to get started with AI.

James recommends a “start small, start now” approach, using tools that are already in your pocket.

Here are three ways any contractor can start today:

1. Use Your Phone as a Documentation Assistant

Take video walkthroughs of your projects. AI can automatically generate punch lists, identify issues, and organize footage by date, project, or phase.

2. Turn Voice Notes into Reports

Instead of typing daily logs or updates, use voice-to-text AI tools to create clear documentation, reducing human error and saving hours of admin work.

3. Analyze Photos and Past Projects

Upload old job photos and videos into AI tools that can detect trends, highlight recurring issues, or even measure progress automatically.

The point isn’t perfection. It’s practice, learning what AI can do for your workflow before everyone else catches up.

Why Video Is the New Documentation Standard

One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is how video is reshaping accountability in construction.

With AI tools like LiveSwitch, builders can:

Record walkthroughs remotely instead of driving to every site
Store all footage securely in one place
Use AI to tag and summarize what’s happening in each clip
Create automated progress reports for clients or investors

That means fewer truck rolls, fewer misunderstandings, and far less rework.

“The more you document with video, the less you’ll ever have to argue with anyone about what happened.”

What’s Coming Next

The next wave of AI innovation won’t live on a screen, it’ll live in the field.

James predicts a future of hands-free tools, including:

Smart glasses that display live data on-site
AI-powered measurements that auto-capture dimensions and materials
Real-time translation between multilingual crews

These technologies will redefine how projects are managed, but only for those who are open to experimenting today.

How to Protect Your Business with AI

Construction has always carried risk: scope creep, disputes, rework, and lost communication.AI doesn’t just save time, it protects your business.

By automatically recording and indexing every job, message, and visual reference, you gain:

Proof of work
Instant recall for warranty issues
Documentation that wins disputes before they start

That kind of clarity isn’t just smart, it’s essential for scaling in 2025 and beyond.

How to Get Started with LiveSwitch

Ready to start using AI on your job sites?

Here’s how you can begin today:

Start your free trial: https://www.liveswitch.com/contact-signup
Book a personalized demo: https://book-a-demo.referral-factory.com/uifcCa22
Visit the official site: https://www.liveswitch.com/
Exclusive Offer: Use code “Champions10” for 10% off your subscription at checkout.

About James Hatfield

Name: James Hatfield
Company: LiveSwitch
Role: Chief Revenue Officer
Specialty: AI-driven visual communication and documentation tools for construction and property management
Website: LiveSwitch.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-hatfield/

How BuilderComs Fits In

AI tools are only as powerful as the communication system behind them.

That’s where BuilderComs comes in, the platform designed to organize client messages, internal communication, and project updates in one place.

With features like AI-assisted message drafting, sentiment alerts, and role-based communication channels, BuilderComs gives contractors the clarity to run projects efficiently and confidently.

Learn more at www.buildercoms.com.