Subcontractor Management: How to Get Reliable Subs and Avoid Schedule Disasters

Unreliable subcontractors are the #1 cause of project delays. The electrician who doesn't show up. The plumber who starts three other jobs simultaneously. The HVAC sub who disappears for two weeks.

Managing subs effectively is critical to on-time, profitable projects.

Build a Vetted Sub Database

Don't scramble for subs on every project.

Maintain database of quality subs with:

• Contact information
• Trade specialties
• Availability and capacity
• Quality ratings (track performance)
• Pricing levels
• Insurance and licensing status
• Past project history

BuilderMate's subcontractor portal tracks all this automatically, making it easy to find the right sub for each job.

Set Clear Expectations

Before engaging a sub, clarify:

• Exact scope of work
• Timeline and schedule
• Payment terms
• Quality standards
• Communication requirements
• What happens if they don't show

Put it in writing. Verbal agreements with subs lead to disputes.

Track sub performance:

• Did they show up on time?
• Quality of work?
• Did they complete on schedule?
• Were there issues?

Use this data to decide who to use again and who to avoid.

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Manage subcontractors with automated scheduling, payment tracking, and performance ratings. Try BuilderMate free for 30 days.