You discover that a subcontractor has installed plumbing that doesn't meet Michigan code requirements. As the general contractor, what is your primary responsibility?
Correct Answer
C) Require the subcontractor to correct the work to meet code
As the general contractor, you are responsible for ensuring all work meets code requirements and must require the subcontractor to correct any non-compliant work before proceeding.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
As the general contractor (GC), you are the party of record responsible for delivering a code-compliant project to the owner. Michigan residential builder law holds the GC accountable for all work on the project, including work performed by subcontractors. When non-compliant work is discovered, the primary obligation is to direct the responsible subcontractor to correct it immediately — before proceeding with other work that might conceal or depend on the deficient installation.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Accept the work since it was done by a licensed subcontractor
Accepting the work simply because a licensed subcontractor performed it is incorrect. Licensure of the subcontractor does not transfer the GC's liability or oversight responsibility. The GC remains accountable to the owner and the building official for code compliance on all work performed under the contract.
Option B: Complete the project and address issues during the final inspection
Completing the project and addressing issues during final inspection is unacceptable. Continuing work over known non-compliant installations can make corrections more costly, may cause additional code violations, and exposes the GC to liability for concealing defects. Inspectors expect compliance to be corrected when discovered, not deferred.
Option D: Report the subcontractor to the state licensing board immediately
Immediately reporting the subcontractor to the state licensing board is not the primary responsibility at the time of discovery. The first priority is correcting the non-compliant work. Regulatory reporting may be warranted later if the subcontractor refuses to correct the work or if the violation is egregious, but it is not the primary first step.
Memory Technique
GC Rule: 'Your project, your code compliance.' When a sub does bad work, your first move is always: FIX IT. Report later if needed, but fix first. Think of it as: GC = General Corrector of all problems on site.
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