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Appears we have a broken main gas line coming into our building. This could turn out to be very expensive and may take several weeks to resolve.
I think we should get bids, however management company says there is no way of bidding project since it's unclear exactly what the problem is or the scope once job starts.
Our agent indicates the job will be billed on a time and material basis. However, I'm very concerned about giving a contractor the job without any control of what final cost may be.
I know there is no easy answer here, but any suggestions?
I had a gas leak and Con Edison shut my service to the entire building. It can be very expensive, make sure your Resident Manager/Superintendent makes a daily list of the plumbing company's employees and make sure their list of helpers, mechanics and foreman on the invoice matchs your list.
Hi - sorry to hear about your gas line issue. As a suggestion, I believe that the Board can to a limit on the spend authorization. For example, you might say "not to exceed $20k" unless approved by the Board. This can:
1) Send the message that you are concerned about costs; 2) You may wish to inquire whether this is covered by your insurance if this was caused not by just the old age of the pipes; 3) and create a dialogue between the agent, the contractor and the Board so the Board is informed about the extent of the damage and respond appropriately (communicating to the residents, assess funds and the like).
Good luck!
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Your Agent is right.
No contractor can give a bid since he does not know the extent or location of the damage/repairs.
Inquire about the hourly rate per man the contractor charges and have your superintendent supervise the repairs / keep record of time worked ( and number of worker ).
Good Luck
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