GC coordination on TI: schedule integration is everything.
Most commercial TIs involve general contractor managing overall buildout. Electrical contractor coordinates with GC on schedule, scope boundaries, and integration with other trades.
By Steven Lockhart · Reviewed by Alex Towery, C-10 #989290
Updated 2026-06-16
GC coordination on commercial TI involves: pre-construction coordination meeting (scope clarification, schedule alignment), rough-in coordination with framing/drywall sequence, mid-project coordination meetings (typically weekly), inspection scheduling integration, trim coordination with finishes, final commissioning. Electrical contractor's responsibility is executing electrical scope to GC's schedule while maintaining quality and code compliance. GC's responsibility is overall project sequencing.
01How GC coordination typically works.
Pre-construction phase: GC has overall project schedule, electrical contractor provides electrical schedule fitting within it. Scope clarification meeting identifies any work letter ambiguities, confirms inclusions/exclusions, aligns expectations on responsibilities. Typically 2-4 hour meeting with GC, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and tenant rep. Output: confirmed electrical scope with schedule milestones.
Execution phase: rough-in timing depends on framing completion (electrical can't rough-in until framing provides wall and ceiling cavity access). Trim timing depends on drywall completion. Final connections happen during finishes. Each milestone has specific dependencies on other trades. Communication via daily on-site coordination (foreman level) plus weekly project meetings (PM level). Issues escalate through GC project manager.
02Three coordination points where electrical contractor adds value.
Schedule realism
GCs sometimes underestimate electrical timing on complex projects. Quality electrical contractor provides realistic timing based on actual project scope; pushes back on unrealistic schedules during pre-construction; offers acceleration options when needed (more crew, extended hours, parallel work streams).
Scope clarification
Some work letter or scope ambiguities surface during execution. Electrical contractor identifies these proactively, raises with GC and tenant for resolution, documents resolution in writing. Prevents end-of-project scope disputes.
Inspector coordination
Multi-inspection projects (restaurant: building + fire + health) require inspector scheduling alignment. Electrical contractor coordinates electrical inspections with GC's overall inspection schedule, ensures sequence works for all parties.
03How we work with Marin GCs.
We have ongoing working relationships with 20+ Marin commercial GCs of various sizes — from small specialty TI contractors to larger commercial construction firms. New GC relationships establish through: review of work letter, on-site walk of project, scope alignment meeting, schedule integration, insurance/bonding documentation exchange, communication cadence setup. We've onboarded with new GCs in 1-2 week timeframes for active projects.
Our typical role on multi-trade projects: own electrical scope completely from rough-in through final commissioning, coordinate with GC's project manager on schedule and scope issues, attend regular project meetings (typically weekly), maintain communication with tenant directly when scope or timing affects tenant operations, complete electrical scope on schedule to support GC's overall project completion. Quality coordination delivers projects on time and within budget; poor coordination creates downstream issues affecting all trades.
Common questions.
Do I hire you directly or through the GC?
Either approach works. Direct hire by tenant: tenant has direct contractual relationship with electrical contractor, GC coordinates execution. Through GC: GC subs electrical contractor, manages the relationship for tenant. Most Marin commercial TIs we work on use direct-hire model — gives tenant control over electrical contractor selection while GC coordinates execution. Through-GC model simpler from tenant perspective but adds GC markup on electrical scope (typically 10-20%).
What if my GC doesn't have a preferred electrical contractor?
GC referrals matter less than tenant's relationship with electrical contractor. If GC suggests an electrical contractor: verify their commercial experience, references, licensing, insurance. If tenant prefers different contractor: communicate directly to GC, ensure scope/schedule integration works for everyone. Tenant choice of electrical contractor is typical for direct-hire model.
How do you handle schedule conflicts with other trades?
On well-managed projects, schedule conflicts surface during weekly project meetings and resolve through GC coordination. On poorly-managed projects, conflicts surface on the job site and resolve through real-time negotiation between foremen. We participate in formal coordination processes and address conflicts professionally. Most conflicts resolve through schedule adjustment or scope sequencing; few escalate to project-level issues.
Will you communicate directly with the tenant or only through GC?
Both — depends on issue type. Scope clarification, timeline questions, technical preferences: direct tenant communication usually appropriate. Schedule changes, scope changes affecting cost, project-level coordination: through GC for proper project management discipline. We respect GC's project management role while maintaining direct tenant relationship for technical matters.
How do you handle pricing — flat fee or hourly?
Both, depending on scope. Routine service calls and predictable scope (panel replacement, EV charger install, transfer switch install, fixture replacement) are flat-fee quoted up front. Diagnostic visits and emergency scope are hourly because we don't know what we'll find. Either way, you get a written quote before work starts on anything significant, and we don't proceed beyond the quote without your sign-off.
How quickly can you schedule?
Depends on scope and season. Emergency dispatch: same-day across Marin County (1-3 hours business hours, 1-4 hours after-hours). Same-day standard service: 3-6 hours from call when capacity allows; otherwise next business day. Scheduled service work: 1-3 weeks typical. Larger projects requiring permits and PG&E coordination: 4-12 weeks depending on scope. We're upfront about timeline at the quote stage.
What warranty do you offer on work?
Our standard residential warranty: 2 years on labor, manufacturer warranty on parts (varies by product — typically 1-10 years). Major installs (panels, generators, EV chargers) often have longer manufacturer warranties (5-10 years). If there's an issue with our work in the warranty period, we come back and fix it at no cost. We also stand behind work past warranty — repeat customers and referrals matter more than a transactional fix.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. California State License Board C-10 Electrical Contractor #989290, in good standing. Carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance as required by California law. Bondable on projects requiring it. Happy to provide proof of insurance to clients or property managers on request. License lookup: cslb.ca.gov.
Talk to a licensed electrician in Marin.
Family-run, C-10 #989290, 20+ years in the trade. Honest scoping, fair pricing, work that lasts.