Page 446 - Construction Waterproofing Handbook

11.2 CHAPTER ELEVEN
envelope component. Ineffective installation can not only destroy the performance of a
material itself, but it can also lead to structural and interior contents damage. This results
in costly repairs and loss of revenue for a building owner.
Any waterproofing contractor should have the experience and skills necessary to com-
plete the required installation successfully. As importantly, the contractor should also have
the required fiscal responsibility to not only complete the work but also honor punch lists
and repairs that might become necessary. Industry clients can confirm a contractor’s capa-
bility to carry out the work satisfactorily by requiring any potential bidder to complete a
qualification statement. The client can use a qualification process to prequalify a list of
bidders that meet the standards necessary to complete the specific project. A typical qual-
ification form is shown in Fig. 11.1.
By prequalifying and selectively choosing competent and experienced contractors,
unnecessary problems are eliminated during life-cycling. Additionally, this process
should ensure that the contractor will be available for repairs and will honor warranty
items that my occur. There are many qualities a potential contractor should possess,
including:
● Experience in the specific type of installation
● Properly trained mechanics to complete work
● Certification by material manufacturer
● Organized and enforced safety policy
● Payment and performance bonds for total contract sum
● Insurance as required by federal, state, and local laws
● Joint manufacturer and contractor warranties
● Availability of maintenance bonds for warranties
● Sufficient equipment to complete installation
● Financial and customer references
● In-place hazardous waste programs
● Structural quality programs
When selecting a contractor, all of the above points should be considered. Reliance
solely upon low bids often ends up costing more in maintenance and repairs over-life-
cycling of installed systems.
Bonding capacity is a reliable means of allowing only responsible firms to complete
work. Bonding and insurance companies run extensive background investigations of con-
tractors before providing either bonds or insurance to a firm. Upon investigation of the
contractor’s experience, financial, and other capacities, bonding companies will set bond-
ing limits in dollar amounts for the contractor.
Bonds act as insurance policies for the benefit of an owner. Requiring contractors to
provide a payment and performance bond in the full contract amount assures owners that
the contract will be completed and all materials, suppliers, and employees will be paid. If
not, a bonding company will take over the contract, complete the work, and ensure pay-
ments of all outstanding invoices.