Does GC need to do everything in a gut rehab?
We are starting on a gut rehab of a brownstone and getting bids from contractors. Based on the first couple of bids, we are considering whether it would be cheaper but without adding significant risk to have the GC do some things but then contract out some other jobs ourselves. So for example have the…
We are starting on a gut rehab of a brownstone and getting bids from contractors. Based on the first couple of bids, we are considering whether it would be cheaper but without adding significant risk to have the GC do some things but then contract out some other jobs ourselves.
So for example have the GC handle mechanical systems, roof, framing. But find other people to do masonry/facade, floors, tiles, stairs (we need new stairs built), deck, kitchen cabinets, install bathroom fixtures etc.
Not sure what the most efficient divide would be, but the idea is to have the GC handle the most opaque, code and bank sensitive items and also the most closely coupled jobs. While we contract out and supervise the rest (I have time but very little knowledge and experience). We also have an architect and are paying for some (not a lot) site administration.
What do you all think?
It depends on the contractor. I much prefer having mine run the whole show using his guys. Otherwise, it’s very difficult coordinating things, they start blaming each other for various mistakes, and the project takes much longer to complete.
Convenience and time to completion are just as important to me as price. It depends how much you want to save a nickel.
we were taking a similar approach to our reno and a modified version of this seems to be working (mainly because we have a very flexible contractor) but some of the things we thought we were going to subcontract ourselves (roof, floor refinishing, painting) were nixed by both architect & contractor. we did take care of the basement demo, dig out, floor pour, sidewalk & stair straightening and will handle the plaster restoration, facade work & exterior ironwork. there are a couple of “refinishing” areas that we will also take on (1 bedroom, the bannisters, the foyer) but i am questioning the logic behind doing this with respect to efficiency. we are however purchasing all flooring & appliances.
in hindsight i feel we were over ambitious in the beginning, thankfully we haven’t had any major mishaps
proceed with caution…
-ms. crownheights reno
I agree with previous post + the GC might not take the job if you decide to go your way. You are asking for trouble.
Don’t do it.
If there is no GC in charge who is ultimately responsible then the independently hired sub-contractors will start blaming each other once problems arise.
You are asking for a nightmare.