Building a proactive approach to subcontractor management

By Lee Lipniskis.

RCS Influencer Lee Lipniskis says that minimizing risks and enhancing collaboration with subcontractors safegaurds their reputation and supports the success of every project.

I have a somewhat different belief system when it comes to subcontractors. I am NOTHING without them and I stand by that. I have known half of my crews for over a decade now. I have watched their kids grow up, and they have watched me grow up. Our crews are an extension of the Levello team and we treat them as such. At the end of the day, we want to go home to our families safely and we want the same for them.

Something that we talk a lot about at Levello is transparent communication. We believe in this approach and find that it promotes clarity, trust and understanding between not only our clients, but our subcontractors as well. It fosters a more open and collaborative environment and is not just a one-way communication stream. We encourage our subcontractors to have open dialogue with us for feedback and concerns they may have.

Before we bring a subcontractor on board, we conduct a prequalification process. We examine their previous work, assess their experience and ensure compliance with industry and local insurance regulations. Our focus is not only on their capabilities, but also on their commitment to safety standards, ensuring they align with our expectations.

After they pass the prequalification process, we have a sit-down meeting at our office to go over expectations of communication, timing, quality, work order delivery, payment, etc. We have them sign an agreement before any work starts. Our contracts are detailed, outlining expectations, deliverables and safety protocols explicitly. By establishing a comprehensive legal framework, we set the groundwork for collaboration while emphasizing our commitment to quality work and safety standards.

Our purpose statement is "Production at a Higher Level." Part of that means that we are onsite during the construction install process. We work closely with our subcontractors onsite going over possible safety hazards, material needs and homeowner expectations. This also allows us the opportunity to have those two-way street conversations and address any potential issues promptly as well as provide constructive feedback if necessary. Our systematic approach encourages continuous improvement, reinforcing a safety-first culture on every project.

At Levello Construction, our proactive approach to subcontractor management is rooted in aligning their work and safety practices with our organizational goals. By minimizing risks and enhancing collaboration, we not only safeguard our reputation but also contribute to the overall success of every project. In an industry where quality and safety are non-negotiable, our commitment to providing a production experience at a higher level sets us apart and ensures us for future success.