Working with subcontractors as an owner-builder

The hardest part of managing trades is not price. It is the gaps between them, such as who patches the wall after the electrician.

Before hiring

• Check licence, insurance and references.
• Ask for written quotes on the same scope so they compare fairly.
• Confirm who buys materials.

Agree in writing

State the scope, the price, the schedule, the payment stages, the warranty and how changes are handled. Verbal agreements fail when memories differ.

Sequence the work

Trades depend on each other. Rough-in work is inspected before walls close, and finishing follows. Share the schedule so everyone knows their window.

Pay and close out

Pay against completed, inspected work. Keep receipts and any waivers, and keep warranty papers.

Record responsibilities

Use the matrix to note who is responsible for each task. See the owner-supplied materials checklist.

Always check the project drawings and specification, and confirm requirements with the engineer of record and the local authority.

Quick answers

• What should a quote include? Scope of work, materials supplied by whom, timing, price, payment terms, warranty and what is excluded.
• How should I pay? Tie payments to completed stages and keep a final amount until the work passes inspection. Terms are agreed between you and the trade.
• Should I check insurance? Yes. Ask for proof of liability and worker cover, and check licences where required.
• What is a scope gap? Work that nobody quoted because each trade assumed another would do it.

Questions people ask

What should a quote include?

Scope of work, materials supplied by whom, timing, price, payment terms, warranty and what is excluded.

How should I pay?

Tie payments to completed stages and keep a final amount until the work passes inspection. Terms are agreed between you and the trade.

Should I check insurance?

Yes. Ask for proof of liability and worker cover, and check licences where required.

What is a scope gap?

Work that nobody quoted because each trade assumed another would do it.

Sources and further reading

• OSHA
• International Code Council
• NAHB

Text Digital Oro

Digital Oro International advertises on The Company Chronicle. This guide was written by our editorial team from public sources and general professional practice; it does not describe a guarantee, quote or offer from Digital Oro International. Confirm current terms, prices and availability with the operator before you decide.