What Electrical Contractors Seek in Subcontractors

Finding the Right Electrical Subcontractor: A UK Contractor's Guide

As a main contractor in the UK construction industry, you know that the success of your projects often hinges on the quality of your subcontractors. When it comes to electrical work, choosing the right subcontractor is crucial for safety, compliance, and timely project completion. But how do you find the best fit before even sitting down for a meeting? This post outlines the key factors UK contractors should consider when vetting potential electrical subcontractors.

1. Qualifications and Competence: Beyond the Basics

In the UK, demonstrating competence is paramount. Here's what to look for:

• Registration with a Competent Person Scheme: This is essential. Look for registration with schemes like NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA. These organisations ensure that registered electricians work to the latest BS 7671 wiring regulations (IET Wiring Regulations).

• Relevant Qualifications and Training: Verify that the subcontractor's electricians hold appropriate qualifications, such as City & Guilds certifications. Ongoing professional development and training are also vital to ensure they're up-to-date with the latest technologies and regulations. Please refer to the blog post competency for details on qualifications and training

• Insurance: Check for adequate Public Liability Insurance and Professional Indemnity Insurance. Employer's Liability Insurance is a legal requirement if they employ staff. Don't just take their word for it; request copies of their certificates.

2. Prioritising Safety: A Non-Negotiable

Safety is paramount in UK construction. Before engaging a subcontractor, assess their commitment to health and safety:

• Health and Safety Policies: Ask to see their health and safety policy and risk assessments. These documents should demonstrate a proactive approach to managing risks on site.

• Method Statements: Request method statements for specific tasks to understand how they plan to carry out the work safely.

• CSCS Cards: Ensure their electricians hold valid Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards, demonstrating they have the necessary training and awareness for working on construction sites.

• Accreditation Schemes: Look for accreditations such as CHAS, SafeContractor, or Constructionline, which demonstrate a commitment to health and safety best practices.

3. Reputation and Track Record: Due Diligence is Key

A subcontractor's past performance is a strong indicator of future performance:

• References: Request references from previous clients, preferably other main contractors. Don't hesitate to contact these references and ask specific questions about their experience.

• Case Studies: Ask for examples of similar projects they've completed. This can give you valuable insight into their capabilities and experience.

• Online Reviews and Testimonials: While online reviews should be taken with a pinch of salt, they can still provide some insight into a subcontractor's reputation.

4. Financial Stability: Ensuring Project Completion

A financially stable subcontractor is less likely to encounter difficulties that could disrupt your project:

• Credit Checks: Consider conducting a credit check to assess their financial standing

• Bonding: For larger projects, consider requiring a performance bond, which provides financial protection in case the subcontractor defaults.

It should be said at this time don’t let this get in your way, new talent is always entering the electrical industry and start up contractors wont have financial reports but their skill, quality of works may well surpassed that of a larger well established contractor, building a healthy relationship with newer companies can lead to a long lasting partnership with favourable terms of business.

5. Communication and Organisation: Smooth Collaboration is Essential

Effective communication and organisation are crucial for a successful working relationship:

• Responsiveness: How quickly do they respond to your initial enquiries? This can be an indicator of their overall responsiveness.

• Project Management Capabilities: Enquire about their project management processes and their ability to meet deadlines.

• Clear Communication Channels: Establish clear communication channels from the outset to avoid misunderstandings and delays.

The PQQ

The above seem extensive and looks like a laborious task, but it does not need to be a contractor can use something called a pre qualification Questionnaire or PQQ for short let me explain:

A Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ), also sometimes referred to as a Selection Questionnaire (SQ) or Suitability Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ), is a document used in the construction industry (and other sectors) to assess the suitability of potential contractors or subcontractors before they are invited to tender for a specific project. It's essentially a screening process that helps clients or main contractors narrow down a large pool of applicants to a shortlist of those most likely to be capable of delivering the project successfully.

And this includes every thing we have discussed up to this section, this can also prove as a good indicator a sub contractor want to work with you and I find a good measure of a contractors admin capabilities after all if they cant or are not willing to complete 3 A4 sheets to obtain new works for their business are they the right company for you?

Your can find the PQQ document in your members area in Downloads/Business development templates.

Conclusion: Investing Time Upfront Pays Dividends

By conducting thorough due diligence before the first meeting, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering problems later on. Taking the time to assess potential electrical subcontractors based on these criteria will ensure you partner with a competent, reliable, and safe team, ultimately contributing to the success of your projects.