Prequalifying a structural subcontractor: what to ask for before award
A structural subcontractor is on your critical path for the whole frame. This is the list an estimator can work through before award, and what a complete answer to each item looks like.
Insurances and entity
Certificates of currency for public liability (a $20 million limit is standard on multi-storey work) and workers compensation, in the name of the entity that will sign the subcontract. Check the ABN on the certificate against the ABN on the quotation. Ask for the certificates to be re-issued at each renewal during the job.
Licences and safety systems
For scaffold above four metres, the SafeWork NSW high risk work licence for every scaffolder erecting or altering it, and a handover certificate at erection and after every alteration. White Cards for the crews. A safe work method statement for each package, site-specific, before the crew starts. Ask how inspections are called and who holds the hold points before each pour.
Capability and referees
A capability statement that says which trades are self-performed and which are subcontracted on, current projects with the head contractor's name where it can be given, and referees you can ring. Ask who supervises the sequence on site and whether that person priced the job.
Commercial terms
An itemised quotation with the basis shown against each element, inclusions and exclusions listed, a validity period, and how variations will be priced and approved. Payment claims monthly with measured quantities, the subcontractor's statement and current certificates attached. Retention, defects liability and liquidated damages are the head contractor's terms; a serious subcontractor will have read them before pricing.
Program capacity
Ask what deck area per cycle the crew is sized for and what happens if the program moves. The honest answer is a number and a mobilisation plan, not a promise.
Questions
What is a subcontractor's statement?
The NSW form a subcontractor signs with each payment claim, declaring workers compensation, payroll tax and remuneration obligations are met. It protects the head contractor from those liabilities.
Should the capability statement be a PDF?
Either a page or a PDF, as long as it names the entity, the trades, the insurances, the systems and current work, and can be filed with the tender.
Can MK Management Group supply all of this?
Yes. The capability statement on this site covers it, and certificates, SWMS and referees are issued with the quotation or on request.
Send the drawings.
Issue the for-construction set for the packages you want priced and the quotation comes back itemised, with the basis shown against every line.