What it means
A contractor who self-performs employs the tradespeople, owns the tools and takes direct responsibility for the work. Electrical, mechanical, drywall, carpentry and painting are common trades to keep in house.
The term is a matter of degree. Some contractors self-perform a little, while others do the bulk of the work.
Why it matters
When work is subcontracted, the contractor must schedule, price and supervise a chain of other companies. Each handoff is a place for delay, miscommunication and added markup. Self-performing shortens that chain.
For owners, it means more predictable cost, one schedule, faster answers to site questions and clearer accountability for quality.
How HSM handles it
HSM self-performs most of its work. Our crews cover electrical, led by Master Electrician Adam Williams, and mechanical, including HVAC and plumbing. They also cover low voltage and security, interior systems such as framing, drywall and ceilings, carpentry and millwork, painting, and doors and hardware.
This means our trades sit in the same planning meetings as our project managers, and they know the schedule because it is theirs. If a change is needed, there is no waiting for a subcontractor's quote and availability.
We still bring in specialists for work outside our trades, and we manage them as part of the same schedule.
What to plan for
Ask any contractor what percentage of the work it does itself, and which trades. A clear answer tells you a lot about how the schedule and the budget will be managed.