The Fire Sprinkler Roundtable

We are getting reports from the field that several large general contractors in the Midwest are requesting “new” bids on contract prices previously agreed to.  In some cases the fire sprinkler drawings have been completed yet all subcontractors have been told to review their bids.  This practice is without precedent and further suggests that there still remains very little day-light at the end of the “sprinkler economic tunnel”.

Corporate earnings are improving because the balance sheets of most companies are gaining strength due to “personnel cut backs” and very careful spending at every level.  This, unfortunately, is not translating into new business as financial institutions still have a “strangle hold” on funding.   Backlogs are being “chewed up” and competition for all new work is “fierce” with numerous bidders on every job.

However, I am delighted to report that contractor membership in NFSA remains solid with very little attrition.   For that we are very grateful.

We would encourage you to blog us with news of what is happening in your part of the country.