Bobs world

Back in the ’90s, it was an acceptable way to go about your business, but in the noughties we are all supposed to pretend that we are above such things. Nick (the chief QS) got quite misty-eyed remembering some of the master-strokes he pulled on unsuspecting trade contractors on projects of the past.

The story that triggered these discussions was the one about housebuilders who have been sending out letters to their subcontractors announcing they’re cutting payments by 5%. Everybody is up in arms, wondering how such an outdated, old-fashioned attitude could prevail in these enlightened times.

Well, first we are talking about housebuilders, not usually noted for their progressive attitude to life. Second, did subbie bashing really ever go away? It’s alive and well on many sites around the land (not mine, of course). Third, things have been too good for too long – plenty of my colleagues don’t even remember the horror of the last recession.

It will be interesting to see how many of the supposedly reformed firms let their principles slip once times get hard. My prediction is that, like the housebuilders, there will be plenty of main contractors reverting to old tricks. This isn’t bad news for everyone, of course. I’m sure Nick is secretly bored of his ‘new man’ routine and can’t wait to get back to doing what he’s really good at – screwing the subcontractor.