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Teamwork a Must To Have Success On Joint Prospects

By Eugene Peterson

Teamwork between contractors and subcontractors can be a challenge, yet contractors and subcontractors who understand and use simple rules improve their potential for successful jobs, enhanced productivity and profits.  Setting the expectations up front starts with some very simple rules:
• Don’t expect a subcontractor to read your mind. Keep lines of communication open by being accessible when needed.
• Document ALL dealings – and do it in writing.
• Use change orders – for all changes or differences from what is usual, accepted, expected or planned in your agreement.
• Don’t do or allow extras unless agreed to in writing.
• Include start and finish dates in your agreements.
• Expect work to be inspected for quality before work is paid for.
• Agree in advance to back charge provisions. Use only when necessary.
• Obtain and keep appropriate certificates of insurance current and on file.
• Agree to advance contract deposits.
• Always exchange lien waivers for payment.
• Play by the established rules.
• And, finally, be professional and expect your counterpart to be professional, too.