Tips to work with general contractor and subcontractor

4 years ago

hi all, we've hired a general contractor to do multiple projects and he brought a team to do most of them, except for one subcontractor for the hardwood flooring refinishing and another subcontractor for the vinyl installation. We are towards the end of the all projects and the project's timeline got delayed for 2 weeks... We also felt there was not enough communication among GC / subcontractor in a synced way. We are unhappy about the jobs done by the subcontractors and they need to do some fixing. This is our first time we worked with a contractor on home renovation, so we didn't know what we could expect. I am trying to refect things we could have done better to prepare us for future projects. Could you kindly share your experience of working with GC on how to set the expectation, timeline, work/project choice, work examination, etc, esp. whenever subcontracts get involved, how to communicate and set the standard? Thanks!

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Comments (3)

PRO
Joseph Corlett, LLC
4 years ago
"Could you kindly share your experience of working with GC on how to set the expectation, timeline, work/project choice, work examination, etc, esp. whenever subcontracts get involved, how to communicate and set the standard?"

It's the general contractor's job to explain that to you. It's called "controlling the sale", and GCs who don't do it are doomed.
navi_jen
4 years ago
I found the following 2 books to be invaluable reads when planning major home projects:

1. The Complete Guide to Contracting Your Home (Kent Lester)

2. What Your Contractor Can't Tell You: The Essential Guide to Building and Renovating (Amy Johnston).

Good luck.
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PRO
Re:modern Design + Architecture
4 years ago
It all comes down to communication and also the clarity and willingness for all parties to communicate.

Many contractors and subs are not skilled in communication. As a homeowner, you also need to be clear and be able to advocate for your needs.

For general knowledge and for next time, use this free checklist guide to help make sure your bases are covered before hiring your contractor:

freeguide.kickstarthouse.com