### Managing Subcontractor Relationships Directly
Homeowners who choose to hire individual subcontractors must understand coordination requirements, legal responsibilities, and management challenges involved in direct subcontractor relationships. Proper management helps ensure successful outcomes while avoiding common pitfalls.
Trade sequence planning requires understanding which work must be completed before other trades can begin effectively. Typical sequences include structural work first, followed by rough-in trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), then insulation and drywall, and finally finish work. Poor sequencing causes delays and additional costs.
Scheduling coordination becomes homeowner responsibility when managing individual subcontractors, requiring careful planning to ensure trades arrive when needed without conflicts or idle time. Create detailed schedules with buffer time for delays and coordinate material deliveries with work schedules.
Quality control oversight involves homeowners inspecting all work to ensure it meets specifications and identifying problems before subsequent trades cover or complicate corrections. Develop quality checklists and don't hesitate to require corrections when work doesn't meet standards.
Communication management requires maintaining contact with all subcontractors, coordinating schedules, resolving conflicts, and ensuring clear understanding of project requirements. Regular communication prevents misunderstandings while keeping projects on track.
Payment coordination involves managing multiple payment schedules, ensuring work is completed satisfactorily before payments are made, and obtaining lien waivers from all subcontractors. Poor payment management can result in liens against your property even when you've paid appropriately.
Problem resolution becomes homeowner responsibility when conflicts arise between trades, work doesn't meet standards, or scheduling problems develop. Develop problem-solving skills and maintain professional relationships that facilitate conflict resolution.
Insurance verification requires checking that all subcontractors carry appropriate liability and workers' compensation coverage. Obtain insurance certificates and verify coverage directly with insurance companies rather than relying on subcontractor claims.
Permit coordination involves understanding which permits are required, who can obtain them, and when inspections must be scheduled. Some permits must be pulled by appropriately licensed trades while others may allow homeowner applications.
Material management includes ordering materials, coordinating deliveries, managing inventory, and ensuring material quality meets specifications. Poor material management causes delays and may result in quality problems or cost overruns.
Documentation maintenance involves keeping records of contracts, payments, insurance certificates, warranties, and project communications. Comprehensive documentation provides important protection and facilitates future maintenance or warranty claims.