What is my responsibility/ liability to a General Contractor (GC) I’ve used on a previous project. There is one specific Subcontractor, of the fore mentioned GC, that I would like to use on a future project. The Sub has an established method of handling my requests, typically he would tell the GC, and inflate the project cost (10-20%), giving this percentage back to the GC. However, currently the sub says not to worry about the cut for the GC, effectively cutting him out of our dealings. I know he will continue working for the GC, so ultimately does the GC have any legal recourse against me, the homeowner for “stealing†his Sub? … and what of the Subs liability? The project site is in Southern California.
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BTW, I should mention the Sub has a GC license as well as his trade specific license.
One of the best sources for subs is on other jobs. I merely contact the sub directly and submit plans and ask for a bid. The GC does not "own" the sub. Scheduling busy subs can be an issue. Most subs that are good are in high demand by that same GC and others.
Regards,
Boris
"Sir, I may be drunk, but you're crazy, and I'll be sober tomorrow" -- WC Fields, "Its a Gift" 1927
If it's a new project, not at all related to the previous one, then our Commie friend is correct. If the original project is still going, it would be in bad taste to go around the GC who's still on site.
If it's a new project and the sub is sufficiently licensed, then the only reason that you should go to the GC is if he provides you with something for his 20% (warranty, design, trouble shooting, etc.). If he cannot do better than the sub it's his issue that he can't command his percentage.