So, you’ve decided to hire a building contractor to oversee your construction project. However, you’ve just heard the term ‘principal contractor,’ and now you’re confused. You’re not sure what a principal contractor is or if you need one for your project.
This blog will cover everything you need to know about principal contractors. It will include the differences between building contractors and principal contractors, when you need one, and their duties.
The client appoints a principal contractor to oversee the construction phase of a project with more than one contractor. They are appointed in writing by the commercial or domestic client. Principal contractors manage and monitor on-site health and safety during construction.
They have legal duties even before construction begins. The term ‘principal contractor’ is defined in the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.
A builder contractor specialises in all tasks related to construction. They will usually have an established team of builders and other experts.
A principal contractor is a building contractor who has taken on greater responsibilities, such as health and safety. Principal Contractor has responsibility for all other contractors working onsite (associated with the works). Alongside this, a Principal Contractor will liaise regularly with the Principal Designer and Client, ensuring everyone involved in the project is aware of the project status. They are also responsible for the construction phase of a project. The client will have appointed them for that particular project.
Principal contractors manage health and safety on-site during the construction phase. Quality health and safety management is crucial to the project's overall success. So principal contractors are essential in ensuring the project is completed safely and successfully.
CDM Regulations 2015 apply to all construction projects meaning you must appoint a principal contractor if your construction project involves multiple contractors.
The principal contractor must be appointed as soon as possible in the project and before the construction phase begins. This is to ensure the principal contractor has time to identify any risks to health and safety and implement measures to overcome significant risks.
Principal contractors have wide-ranging responsibilities and duties. Their duties begin before the construction phase starts. They then take control of the construction phase and manage the project.
Principal contractors must:
In addition to their day-to-day site duties, principal contractors have several health and safety responsibilities.
Principal contractors must:
Principal contractors must take on many additional duties and responsibilities compared to building contractors. They must have the skills, knowledge, and experience (SKE) to carry out their duties effectively. The level of SKE will depend on the project's complexity, length, and scale.
A principal contractor might:
We’re a reliable and professional construction team with over 25 years of experience operating in northern England. Driven by our desire for client satisfaction, we strive for excellence in everything we do. From guidance on budget costs to on-site construction, we handle all aspects of the construction process.
Jupiter Construction uses an innovative ‘one team’ team approach. This logical, client-focused way of working ensures we work closely with our clients and design teams to deliver a successful project. Constant communication ensures the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the client’s high standards.
We have experience completing a wide range of projects, including new build developments, conversions and refurbishments on commercial, education, and projects within the health sector. Our time in the industry means we have developed long-standing and trusted relationships with many subcontractors and suppliers. We use our reliable supply chain and existing relationships to ensure we deliver the highest level of service.
Our services include building contractors, principal contractors, and design and build. Our principal contractor and project management team are experienced, qualified professionals who are members of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). We use our extensive knowledge and team of skilled professionals to ensure your project is completed on time and without delay.
As principal contractors, we handle all planning, project management, and monitoring. Our job is only complete when the client is fully satisfied with the final build and ready to take ownership of the keys.
If you’re considering undertaking a construction project and are still unsure if you need to hire a principal or building contractor, contact us today. We will be more than happy to answer any questions you have and tell you more about how we can help.
