Contract Types Savannah GA

Source: MASONRY CONSTRUCTION MAGAZINE
Publication date: November 1, 2006

By Ron Willis

There are several types of contracts to be aware of when doing construction work. First, there is the agreement between the owner and the general, typically called the “prime contract.” In addition, there are various contracts, subcontracts, and sub-subcontracts with other contractors and suppliers.

Typically, a general tries to tie all the contracts, subcontracts, and sub-subcontracts back to the prime contract, without letting any of those parties down the line know what is actually in that major document. If you are a down-line subcontractor or supplier, you have the right to a copy of the prime contract. It makes sense that if you are bound to it, a copy is needed.

General contractors typically don't like subs meddling in their businesses. However, they have no problem with binding a sub to something that he has never read or had the opportunity to see. To protect yourself, simply write the general contractor a letter requesting a copy of the prime contract.

Sometimes they respond by saying “come to the office and view a copy.” But this plan doesn't help three months later when you need to know what is in the document and have already forgotten what it said. Stick to your guns and once again request a copy, but this time by certified letter. Then they may ask you to pay for the copies and mailing.

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