Most businesses assume they need a main contractor.
Sometimes they do.
Often they don't.
The Hidden Cost of Main Contractors
- Layered margins — Main contractor markup on top of subcontractor pricing
- Reduced transparency — You don't see the real trade costs
- Limited flexibility — Changes are expensive and slow
- Incentives misaligned with your interests — They profit from variations
Main contractors add value when they manage complexity and risk.
But if you're paying for coordination you could do yourself — or have done independently — you're overpaying.
Alternative Delivery Models
Direct Trade Procurement
Contract directly with specialists. Remove main contractor margin. Requires internal or independent coordination.
Hybrid Delivery
Use a main contractor for complex elements (M&E, structure) but procure directly for simpler trades (decoration, furniture).
Client-Side Orchestration
Engage an independent advisor to coordinate trades on your behalf. Full transparency, no contractor margin.
Independent Oversight
Even if you use a main contractor, independent commercial oversight protects your interests.
When You DO Need a Main Contractor
Main contractors are valuable when:
- The project is highly complex or technical
- You have no internal project management capacity
- You need single-point accountability
- Risk transfer is more important than cost control
When You DON'T Need a Main Contractor
You can often avoid main contractor costs when:
- The scope is straightforward
- You have (or can hire) independent coordination
- Cost transparency matters more than convenience
- You want direct relationships with trades
OMMC helps you choose the right model — not the most expensive one.
Talk to an Independent Advisor
Get clarity on the right delivery model for your project.
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