Hi All,
I’ve been offered a pretty good job with some pretty good folks. Looks like about 3-4 months of solid work being main carpenter for a remodel job.
I’m not a licensed contractor here in CA. I’ll probably be recomending contractors for electrial and plumbing and working with them but not signing contracts
We’ve done some preliminary discussions and when next we meet it will be to firm up the deal. If there’s anything I should know I should mention it by then.
So far we have agreed on a daily rate and a building fund I’ll have access to. Their insurance, they say, is ample to protect them. I’m on my own.
I think I have most of theb ases covered and feel comfortable so far.
Is there anything I should get in writing or….????
Any input appreciatted.
Notrix
Replies
>>Is there anything I should get in writing
Everything.
You are being complacent.
Their insurance isn't going to protect you if something goes wrong. They ain't gonna pay if you mess up. Who's pulling the permits?
Let me ask you: Does the word "entropy" mean anything to you?
it can get real ugly real fast i wouldnt build a dog house without the proper paperwork! first thing i would have is insurance. check with a insurance broker. cover your behind! second-- get some sort of contract between you and the builder/owner.showing your pay structure,scope of work,duties,etc. this may seem like over kill but ive never had any problems with this type of set-up.plus it looks professional to the client/customer the last thing you want to be is unprotected.in this day and age im sorry to say you have to look out for #1 the days of handshakin are over.GET IT IN WRITING good luck.
If you're not a licensed contractor in California, the only way you can "work" for them is on an hourly basis, and they need to withold taxes and worker's comp on you. You essentially become their "employee".
Whether or not you are holding contracts with subs is irrelevant- if you "work" for them, and the total value of your "work" exceeds $500, you either need to be licensed, or you need to be an employee.
Sounds like a shady deal to me.
Bob
I have done what you are thinking about. However I am licensed and insured. All my (referral only) work is still done on a handshake. You need to make the call on how far to extend your liability in this situation. You will be more responsible than you initially think. Keep close to zero on the monies due you for labor and any material you supply. I base my overhead/profit on the job total, so handling and paying subs and material is usually within my business. If you are merely subbing carpentry, you should make them aware of time lost due to delays by others and material shortages will be charged accordingly.
This works well for me in my 150k solo operation. I would never suggest that it is the smart way to go for others. It takes constant vigilance and you must stay caught up not overextended. You are not a bank or a charity. Best of luck.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
Hi,Thanks for the input. I'm putting some details in writing. so we're straight.I've been wanting to get my GC license but haven't had the time or cash to pull it off, Eventually. but untill then I have to work. I'm feeling good about this project and it will enable me to come legal shortly..if I choose to go in that direction.This project I should elaborate is more of a cabinet construction job. They want a kitchen full of custom cabs. I'll make them in my shop and deliver and install as well as the rest of the installation details. I know it doesn't matter unless I can sell them as free standing furniture in which case no license, no state bs.Any other points I should know let me knwo,N