Contractor says I can't buy my own materials

[Gregory Calloway]

Good morning,

I have a pretty reputable contractor that I have a bid with on a project and I asked him if I can buy my own materials which would save me on the mark-up. He informed me that he can't because he's not supposed to for insurance purposes. If there are any workmanship or issues his insurance wouldn't back him on coverage. I've never heard of this, can anyone corroborate this?

Thanks!

[Matthew Paul]

You are not going to save any money by supplying the materials . The contractor will make the same either way . Probably more . 

I guess when you go to a restaurant , you bring your own steak and ask them to cook it ?  Some restaurants will let you bring a bottle of wine , but charge you a corkage fee. 

When I run into a customer that wants to supply materials , my estimate is over then and there . Learned my lesson on that in the early 1980's . 

Contractors are running a business , we mark up materials , we mark up labor , we mark up our subs . Thats how we make a profit . 

If you supply the materials , and you order the wrong stuff , or dont order enough , and the contractor is there with 5 guys and cant work due to your mistake . You are still responsible to pay for the day for 5 men . If you buy the expensive kitchen cabinets , and the contractor accidently drops a $900 section . Does he pay ? Now if he supplied them he has some mark up to cover that , if not he takes a hit .