Finding Contractors for Subcontracts
Relationships are vital in the commercial construction industry, specifically between general and trade contractors. While general contractors subcontract work to a variety of subcontractors, trade contractors focus mainly on projects given to them by general contractors, making this dynamic for both sides mutually advantageous. The partnership between subcontractors and general contractors can be complex. General… Read more
Government Construction Contracts
Construction firms highly covet commercial government contracts, as public spending on construction projects exceeds hundreds of billions of dollars yearly, making them a lucrative opportunity. While most construction firms rely on government contracts as their sole source of revenue, others bid on various public and private jobs. Public construction contracts are governed by lengthy laws,… Read more
Types of Construction Bonds
The industry offers a large variety of surety bonds, which are required to bid or work on all public works projects, private construction, remodeling, and new construction. The different types of surety bonds include bid bonds, performance (contract) bonds, and payment bonds. These bonds offer protection for the project owner, taxpayers, investors, etc., associated with… Read more
Bond Markets Fluctuate Based on Rising Interest
At the end of 2021, the 10-year treasury note reached only 1.5 percent, creating low-interest rates. Less than a year later, in October 2022, the rates peaked at more than four percent, which hasn’t been seen since April 2010. These unusual bond market fluctuations force investors to constantly recalibrate to keep up. Because of the… Read more
Vehicle Dealer Bonds Increased
Since January 23, 2023, the Michigan Uniform Vehicle Dealer Surety Bonds (also known as Michigan auto dealer bonds or Michigan motor vehicle dealer bonds) has increased from $10,000 to $25,000. Mandated by Michigan Compiled Laws 257.248, the surety bond requirement has yet to be distributed to all motor vehicle dealers. Any individuals or business entities… Read more
Digital Bonding and Surety for Construction Firms
Digital bonding in the construction industry is much more common these days, primarily due to the introduction of digitization into the surety industry. Especially since the pandemic, when many everyday activities suddenly were launched into the digital realm, digitization of sureties for the construction industry has only gained momentum. Paperless, fully digital bonding platforms are… Read more
The SBA Works to Break Down Barriers as the White House Disperses $60 Billion to States
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is advocating for more small businesses to partner with federal contractors, particularly with the latest advancement to update critical infrastructure throughout the U.S. With the passing of the $1 trillion infrastructure law, the Biden administration made available about $60 billion to the states earlier this month. These funds are earmarked… Read more
Common Questions & Answers Regarding Surety Bonds and the Prequalification Process
What is a surety bond? A surety bond is a signed agreement that guarantees compliance, payment, or job performance. Sureties are a type of insurance with a three-party contract in which one party (the surety) guarantees the performance of a second party (the principal) to a third party (the obligee). Surety bonds written for construction… Read more
Understanding Construction Bond Claims
Experienced contractors generally make a conscious effort to avoid claims situations, while being proactive about understanding the process. Utilizing the perfect surety gives those contractors the knowledge and power they need for their claims team. For any contractor to take on bonded jobs, basic comprehension is essential. The three main types of construction bonds are:… Read more
Requiring Private Construction Bonds
While public (federal, state, or local agencies) projects are required to provide performance and payment bonds, private construction generally does not require bonds. For privately-owned construction jobs, it is up to the owner to secure a bond. While most contractors will work with a surety to provide the bond, some contractors will make it mandatory… Read more