Things They Don't Tell You About Using a Contractor in Kenya (Essay Sample)

Things they don't tell you about using a contractor in Kenya
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A contractor is a registered professional who finds, solicits bids from subcontractors, coordinates the material purchase and supplies, and schedules all the other subcontractors to complete a project at the right time, cost and quality. Hiring a contractor can be easy if you, as the client, take the right steps in due diligence. A good contractor is someone you can trust to do a good job for a fair price and stand behind their work confidently. Typically, when engaging a contractor, a contract must be duly analyzed and signed by both the client and the contractor. One should not engage a contractor who only demands cash payment and does not want to have a signed agreement with the client. The client only makes payments to the contractor upon a quantity surveyor's valuation of works and raising a certificate. The contractor, in turn, pays all the other subcontractors involved in the construction process. The contractor is the key go-to person in the event of a question or query about the ongoing project. In case of any change or concern, the contractor must communicate the same to all other consultants and the project team.
Before engaging a contractor
All the agreements with the contractor must be in written form with the contract sum, project duration, and the mode of payment very clearly stipulated. The contract should contain:-
* The contractor’s full name, address, telephone number, and professional license number.
* A detailed description of the work to be done. Specify the materials to be used: quality, quantity, weight, color, size, brand name, etc. (Bill of quantities/specification). This is very important because it forms the basis of your budget. A bill of quantities gives the quantity, quality, and price for each material; hence the client can make sure the contractor does not deviate from it.
* A "right to cancel" clause. This gives you time (3 days is the standard) to change your mind after you have signed the contract. The clause should also describe what happens if unexpected problems occur after the work is begun.
* The starting and completion dates
* Information on how and when you must pay
* Any warranties and guarantees of quality
* The method for debris and material removal when the job is complete
What to do before signing a contract with the contractor
* Read the entire contract carefully. Ask questions.
* Never sign a contract unless it is filled out completely.
* Keep a copy of the signed contract.
* Do not pay more than the required minimum down payment before the work is begun. Reputable contractors do not demand all the money upfront. If a contractor insists that you pay a large deposit that you c