The Role of a Main Contractor on a Commercial Construction Project

A main contractor, sometimes referred to as a prime contractor or principal contractor, plays a crucial role in delivering a commercial construction project. They are responsible for managing and coordinating the construction phase after the design has been completed. Here are the key responsibilities of a main contractor on a commercial build project in the UK.

Managing Subcontractors

One of the main contractor’s key duties is to hire, manage and oversee specialist subcontractors who will carry out specific parts of the construction work. This includes tradespeople like electricians, plumbers, carpenters, glaziers, roofers, and more. The main contractor in construction projects such as when hotels are being built or roads constructed is responsible for coordinating the schedule of works between different subcontractors to ensure an efficient build programme. They need strong project management skills to plan works, meet deadlines, and deliver the project on time and on budget. Projects that suffer from delays end up costing all parties money, and can even end up embroiled in years of litigation.

Health and Safety Compliance

Ensuring health and safety compliance on site is a huge part of the main contractor’s responsibilities. They must provide safety equipment, implement safety procedures, conduct risk assessments, and provide adequate welfare facilities. The commercial main contracting firm is responsible for reporting accidents and incidents to the Health and Safety Executive. They face liability for any safety breaches, so health and safety is paramount. Staying compliant with UK health and safety legislation like CDM and working closely with the principal designer is crucial.

Day-to-Day Site Management

Running the construction site on a daily basis is down to the main contractor. They will have site managers, foremen and other staff coordinating work activities, directing the workforce, arranging deliveries of materials and plant, as well as maintaining site security. Overall site organisation and logistics are within the main contractor’s remit. They essentially act as the site bosses overseeing progress and productivity.

Quality Assurance

Main contractors are responsible for doing quality assurance checks and inspections at key stages to ensure the work meets required standards. They will review subcontractor works, do spot checks, implement any required remedial work, and undertake building control inspections. Maintaining quality standards throughout the project is a core duty of the main contractor role.

Communication and Administration

Liaising with the client, designers and project team involves a lot of communication and administration. Main contractors provide progress reports, programme updates, costs reports, and other documentation as needed. They handle contractual paperwork, variations, payments, and final certification. Good project management admin and communication skills are essential for this role.

The main contractor has a multifaceted, managerial role coordinating the entire construction stage on behalf of the client. Their oversight of the programme, budget, quality, safety and overall delivery is critical to the success of any major commercial construction project. Appointing an experienced main contractor with the expertise to manage subcontractors, oversee works, and drive progress is key for any commercial developer.