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Who coordinates subcontractors working in the same space?

Short answer. You do, as prime contractor. A typical rough-in sequence is plumbing first, because of pipe pitch, then HVAC ducts, then electrical, which routes most flexibly. Set the schedule before anyone arrives.

Work it through

You're the contractor. Pick what you'd do, then see how each choice plays out.

You have three subcontractors on site simultaneously: framing crew, plumber, and electrician. The plumber and electrician are arguing about who runs their lines first through a shared chase.

Both claim the other should work around them.

  1. Correct

    As the prime contractor, project coordination is YOUR responsibility. The typical rough-in sequence in shared spaces: plumbing first (rigid pipes, gravity-dependent pitch), HVAC second (large ducts, hard to reroute), electrical last (most flexible routing). Setting expectations upfront prevents site conflicts. If you're not coordinating your subs, you're not doing your job as general contractor.

  2. Weak leadership

    'Figure it out yourselves' leads to wasted time, redone work, and angry subcontractors who don't want to work with you again. Good subcontractors expect the general contractor to set the sequence and coordinate access. Failing to manage your job site costs money (idle crews waiting), quality (rushed work to 'get out of the way'), and your professional reputation.

All 14 subcontractors, liens & workers questions

  1. Must you pay subcontractors when the homeowner pays late?
  2. What happens when an unpaid subcontractor files a mechanics lien?
  3. Can a subcontractor put a lien on a house the owner paid in full?
  4. Should a homeowner pay your subcontractor directly?
  5. What if your electrician's license expired mid-job?
  6. Can you hire a plumber who is still getting licensed?
  7. Can a homeowner do their own electrical work on your job?
  8. Who coordinates subcontractors working in the same space?
  9. Who is liable when a subcontractor damages the home?
  10. How do you handle a subcontractor who stops showing up?
  11. Are your regular workers employees or 1099 contractors?
  12. What must you do when an employee is hurt on the job?
  13. What happens when an off-the-books worker is injured?
  14. What are the risks of hiring day laborers for cash?