Subcontractor Management Mistakes – How to Avoid Common Errors

Concise yet insightful!

❌ 𝟱 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗔𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
Managing subcontractors can be one of the most challenging aspects of a construction project, but it’s also one of the most critical for success. In my latest carousel, I break down the 5 most common mistakes project managers make when working with subcontractors and how to avoid them. Plus, I’ve added actionable tips to help you improve your management process immediately:

🟦 𝗣𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 – Choosing subcontractors without proper vetting.

Tip: Don’t choose based on price alone! Implement a thorough vetting process by checking past project performance, references, and certifications. This extra step can save you from bigger issues down the road.

🟥 𝗟𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘀 – Failing to define scope and responsibilities.

Tip: Ensure your contracts are detailed and crystal-clear about scope, deliverables, timelines, and penalties for missed deadlines. Regularly review and update them to reflect any changes as the project evolves.

🟧 𝗜𝗻𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 – Not tracking subcontractor performance.

Tip: Use tools like Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project to monitor subcontractor progress in real time. Schedule regular performance reviews to make sure work is on track and up to standard.

🟨 𝗣𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 – Lack of collaboration and updates.

Tip: Set up consistent communication channels using platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams to ensure you’re always up-to-date with your subcontractors. Encourage an open dialogue to quickly resolve any issues.

🟩 𝗣𝗮𝘆𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘆𝘀 – Damaging relationships by delaying payments.

Tip: Late payments can strain relationships and hurt subcontractor morale. Set up an automated payment process and stick to a clear payment schedule to keep everything running smoothly.