A petty contractor, also called a labour contractor or maistry, brings a gang of workers for a trade such as masonry, bar bending, shuttering or tiling. Usually they supply labour only; the main contractor provides material and often tools. Many sites run almost entirely on such teams, each led by a maistry who also handles the workers’ day-to-day payments.
Payment is either on attendance (day-work, see NMR) or on measured quantity at agreed rates under a work order. Advances paid during the job are recovered from their bills. Keep each advance recorded with a date and signature, and show the balance on every bill so there is no dispute at settlement.
Using labour contractors does not remove the main contractor’s responsibilities. Labour laws may require registration or licences and can make the principal employer liable for unpaid wages or benefits. Requirements depend on the state and the size of the workforce, so check the applicable rules and keep muster rolls and wage sheets for contractor labour.
Subcontractor management in CivilPilot
Work orders, progress, RA bills, retention and advances for every subcontractor, with a portal they can use.
