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general contractor partner program

General Contractors cannot be full members of ASA, so we invite GCs to participate in the “GC Partner Program.”  GCs who participate realize that their success depends on the success of their subcontractors and suppliers, and that is reflected in the way they do business.  The annual fee to participate is $1,500.00.

PURPOSE

The Purpose of the ASA of Baltimore GC Partner Program is to:

  • Improve the construction trade in the Baltimore region, including a fair distribution of risk among all participants involved in construction projects and improvement to the overall quality and timeliness of work
  • Recognize and market exceptional GCs to the subcontractor community
  • Upgrade the professionalism and improve the quality of subcontractors and suppliers
  • Help GCs identify and strengthen business relationships with quality subcontractors and suppliers

GC PARTNER PROGRAM BENEFITS

  • Invitation to attend or participate in chapter education sessions and networking events at ASA member rates, not including member-only events (e.g., BPI sessions)
  • Invitation to host an optional GC Partner Hosted Event (max. one each year)
  • Invitation to have a table/booth at GC Expo events
  • Invitation to participate in GC Partner Roundtables – facilitated networking sessions
  • Access to the Executive Director
  • Access to chapter membership contact information
  • Recognition in social media (LinkedIn)
  • Recognition on the chapter website (ongoing)
  • Recognition at chapter events when attending
  • Permission to have recorded virtual tours of jobsites/facilities/staff accessible to ASA members (online)
  • Complimentary review of standard GC sub-contract to (a) increase participation by quality subcontractors and suppliers, (b) simplify the contracting process and onboarding new subcontractors and suppliers, and (c) clearly communicate subcontractor and supplier responsibilities

GC PARTNER EXPECTATIONS

The following is a list of expectations for every ASA of Baltimore GC Partner who supports ASAB’s efforts to achieve its mission of “Better Construction through Fair Construction.”  As we progress toward an industry that is fairer for all, we look at particular elements in the GC/Sub relationship that need consideration from the Subcontractors’ perspective:

  • Fair Subcontract language – the GC’s subcontract shows consideration of the Subcontractor’s position and the GC is willing to negotiate terms of the subcontract.
  • Scope Reviews – the GC performs scope reviews carefully before issuing Letter of Intent or contract award.
  • Change order process – the GC gets change orders written and pushes for quick approval and resolution prior to the end of the project and is transparent on the status of changes.
  • Retention – the GC is transparent about the status of retainage payments and seeks ways to get subcontractors paid their retainage promptly.
  • Clearly sets proper expectations at the beginning of the job by explaining the flow of documentation and flow of communication.
  • GC Partner Liaison – The GC will have a Liaison that is engaged and will respond to ASAB staff and leadership about issues. The Liaison will participate in discussions regarding an issue that may arise that is not resolved in a timely manner in the normal course of business.
  • Involvement – The GC will attend GC Partner Roundtable events and consider attending and sponsoring other ASAB events.
  • The GC will periodically (no more than once each year) hold a meet and greet or similar educational event exclusive to ASAB members. 

Supporting Small and DBE Subcontractors:

  • The GC recognizes that different subcontractors have unique needs and expectations. They actively support women and minority contractors by helping them navigate challenges and overcome hurdles.
  • The GC takes responsibility for ensuring a level playing field, giving less advantaged subcontractors a fair opportunity to succeed on projects.

Empowering Subcontractors through the GC Management Team:

  • The GC prioritizes ongoing education for its management team regarding subcontractor concerns, including timely payment of change orders, retention, and base contract obligations.
  • In situations where poor management practices affect a subcontractor’s profitability, the GC provides a clear escalation path to upper management, bypassing the problematic manager without penalty.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

GC Partner Hosted Events are held at the request of a General Contractor, and may be held at their office, at a project, at an ASA member’s office, or some other venue. They feature key decision-makers and present a comprehensive view of the company, including markets and strategy, range of project sizes and types, pre-qualification policies and procedures, project management and communications, change orders, and scheduling/payment issues.

GC Partner Roundtable Events give subcontractor and supplier members the opportunity to speak with General Contractors and Business Services Members during facilitated networking sessions. 

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