Posted By RHOES I am looking for a little advice/comments regarding a decision to appoint a Principal Contractor. The project involves the installation of several modular/pre-fabricated buildings with associated works for foundations, drainage and services, macadam and soft landscaping. Initially it was intended that the modular unit contractor would carry out all works. They are deemed competent and resourced to do this but cost implications have led to the consideration of the work being split up between several contractors. One contractor will do the foundations, drainage and services, the modular unit contractor will install the modular buildings, another contractors will carry out the macadam works and a further contractor to do the soft landscaping. The contractor doing the foundations, drainage and services and the contractor installing the modular buildings are both being considered for the role of Principal Contractor. My question is, with both contractors deemed competent and adaquately resourced to undertake the role of PC, in practice who is the better choice for the role of PC? Does anyone have experience in a similar situation and can comment on the benefits and drawbacks that may influence the choice of one contractor to be appointed PC over another in such circumstances?

Posted By Mike DF You have to be careful here. It is starting to sound like you are becoming the Principal Contractor. Have a read of the CDM ACoP and that should help you decide - and help stop you falling into the role of PC or CDM-C by default.

Posted By justgossip As a ground works company I would not be confident that we had the skills, experience and knowledge to act as a safe P.C. during the erection of the modular buildings. Not sure if that helps. For all the contracts we work on the person doing the building of the house has acted as the PC. It gets interesting because the client has in each case appointed us as the ground works and we have not been appointed by the PC. Garry