Multi-Prime (MP)

  • Three linear phases: design, bid and build.
  • Multiple-prime players: owner, designer and multiple prime and/or specialty contractors.
  • Many separate contracts: owner to designer and owner to multiple prime and/or specialty contractors.
  • Owner performs general contractor role.
  • Owner warrants the sufficiency of the plans and specs to the contractors:
    • Owner owns the “details” of design.
    • Owner is liable for any “gaps” between the plans and specs and the owner’s requirements for performance.

Key Considerations

  • Owner has control over the entire process.
  • Designer works directly for owner.
  • All contractors work directly for owner.
  • Some states mandate its use for public sector projects.
  • The very nature of this delivery system establishes some primary disadvantages:
    • No central point of contractor coordination and responsibility for all trades. By default, the owner assumes this responsibility.
    • This method may fail due to the absence of overall authority and coordination among the prime contractors during construction.
  • A need for increased coordination in the development of the separate bid packages for each prime or specialty contractor, leading to the potential for omitted or duplicated scope.
  • The final cost of the project is not known until all prime contracts are procured.
  • Problems primarily arise from lack of coordination and contractor delay issues.
    • Potential for numerous claims among various contractors.
  • Generally, lacks the direct contractual authority to dictate the schedule of another prime contractor