One common issue contractors face regarding construction projects is whether or not they should install materials provided by the client. While it may seem like a way to save time or money, installing materials that you did not purchase can lead to serious complications—both for you as the contractor and for your client.
Manufacturer Warranties & Installation Disputes
One of the most significant risks of installing materials you didn’t purchase is the potential warranty dispute with the manufacturer.
- If an issue arises with the product, the manufacturer’s first response is often:
“The product was installed incorrectly.” - On the other hand, the contractor will likely say:
“I installed it exactly according to the instructions.”
This back-and-forth blame game can delay resolving the issue, leaving the contractor and client frustrated.
Insurance Complications
From an insurance perspective, it’s also problematic to install materials that you didn’t purchase. Insurance providers prefer that the contractor is responsible for both purchasing and installing the materials. This ensures that:
âś” The contractor can provide a warranty on both labor and materials.
✔ The material’s quality and source are known and verified.
✔ If there’s a problem, the contractor has a supply chain connection to resolve it quickly.
If you install third-party materials, it becomes harder for you and your insurance company to manage claims efficiently, leading to a longer resolution process.
Lack of Product History & Support
Another key issue is that when you install materials you didn’t purchase:
❌ You don’t know the supply house it came from.
❌ You don’t have a relationship with a manufacturer’s representative.
❌ You can’t verify the quality or track the product’s history.
If a defect occurs, you’ll have no direct line of support from the supplier, making it much harder to resolve problems quickly.
Final Recommendation: Always Purchase the Materials You Install
At the end of the day, contractors should only install materials they purchase. This protects:
🔹 The client – Ensuring they receive a properly warrantied product.
🔹 The contractor – Avoiding disputes, delays, and financial liabilities.
🔹 The insurance company – Simplifying claims and ensuring proper coverage.
By purchasing and installing the materials yourself, you can confidently stand behind your work, provide better service to your clients, and avoid unnecessary headaches.
Thanks for reading! If you have any questions about this topic, feel free to reach out or email me. Also, check out my other videos for more insights into contractor best practices!
