When to tell GC he isn't doing everything?

12 years ago

GC is starting my kitchen on Monday....His prices are high, but we wanted the quality work he does, I'm not gutting my kitchen and am using my old cabinets, he came to me with good ideas that in the long run I hope work out saves money and I love my kitchen. (oh gee, I'm so nervous). He is doing a lot of work and is getting paid well for it. There are 2 items on his quote I don't want to use him for, I actually told him that on the floor I was going to use my friend who is in the business. To my surprise he said how it isn't good mixing business and friends, and how I could purchase the floor from her if I want, but how he could still install it. That is not happening, but I don't know how or when to tell him this. Should I call him this week and tell him? Should I tell him on Monday? Should I wait till end when floor will be put in? The next thing is the changing of the outlet covers, a cousin offered to do it for us, my husband does his taxes for free every year. I know both these things are done at the end, but I don't feel comfortable waiting, till before he would do them to tell him he isn't. So again, Do I call him this week and tell him? Do I tell him on Monday? Tell me what you suggest...thanks.

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Comments (7)

User
12 years ago
If the contract that you signed includes those items, you are obligated to pay him to do that work. If you have not signed the contract yet, then you can put that into the contract before it's signed. Be sure that you list everything that is included in the job, and any brand names and models that are applicable.

You also need to see copies of his license and insurance for your records and post the permits for when the inspectors come by. If he is not licensed and insured and not willing to get permits, then you need to pass him by and choose someone who is.
User
12 years ago
Changing outlet covers can't take very long. You won't save much money if any by having your cousin do this. I would make it clear right now to the GC that you are subcontracting the floors, including installation. Why wait?
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mitchdesj
12 years ago
Are you changing the plugs and outlets entirely or just the covers, if it's just the covers it's nothing, 2 screws on each, I would not nickle and dime him for that.
As for the floors, that's more major and I would definitely address that asap.

The reason I'm asking you about the outlets is that I just had an electrician in my new condo replace all outlets and plugs from black to white and it took him 5 hours for a 2000 squ feet condo, I had no idea it would take so long so I expect the bill to be expensive.
Ilene Perl
Original Author
12 years ago
I called GC, and spoke to him at length, I reminded him that at the time of the estimate I told him about my friend who owns a flooring and carpeting store, and how I felt I may have to purchase from her. He reminded me how he thought it was wrong of me to feel I had to purchase from my friend, but understood and that's how I left it with him. I have decided I will have him do the outlet covers, and that will be the end of it. We are starting on Monday! I am so nervous!!!! Wish me luck!!!
work_in_progress_08
12 years ago
Haven't read the responses yet. You need to spell out anything your GC isn't to do before you sign the contract. If you've already signed, I would give him immediate notice in writing, or he legally can go ahead and do the work if you both have agreed in the contract. Best to iron everything out from the start and prior to signing a contract.
cindyloo123
12 years ago
You need a Change Order, spelling out the change and how it will affect the balance due on the original contract. Ask him if he has a change order form you can use. If not, see a sample form here: http://www.download-construction-forms.com/construction-change-order-form.html

You don't need to pay to download that form, you can make your own by copying it. The format is not important and it could be written on a placemat. Just make sure you include all of the information that form asks for, and use the language they use. It is very important that you both agree to and memorialize how the change will affect the price agreed to on the original contract. After you have each signed it the change order, make sure you each keep a copy of the completely signed document. Follow this process every time you make any change.

I totally agree with him about using friends to work in your home. Most people are not comfortable complaining about a job if they have a personal relationship with the contractor. I've accepted quite a few substandard jobs in my time because I couldn't bring myself to tell a friend or relative I was dissatisfied with something. I finally learned never to hire people I know!
Sharon kilber
12 years ago
When to tell GC he isn't doing everything? At the first meeting with him. If he, is as good as you say he, is probably a busy man, and has to plan his work. I, know my GC husband is very busy. They have to know what they will be doing at a job. You should have already had a itemize contract laying out everything that was to be done. Good luck! with your kitchen. And don't be nervous. Be up front with him, and you will end up with a real nice kitchen.

When to tell GC he isn't doing everything?

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When to tell GC he isn't doing everything?

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