| Quote: | | [Edited on 11-27-2010 by halcyondays] |
Technically, you are correct; a Mexican contractor should be the one to hold and then pay Social Security. That is, if you sign a contract for him to
do a complete package deal.
You really need to get as referral from a trusted person. Most who will offer their services as a contractor do not comply with the law, and many are
not qualified either. You are ultimately responsible, no matter what the "contractor" tells you.
Trust is a huge issue! You really need to be there during the construction. You need to cost out the materials. You can count on "contractor"
overruns; on labor, any materials he buys for you, labor costs, and time promised for delivery of the finished product.
Much has been written about this. Building in Baja is very risky. Title is very risky. You need to really do your homework, read the stories of people
who failed with building, and all the pitfalls that await you; anticipated and unforeseen. There are so many ways to lose everything. In Baja, it is a
big game. If you are not in charge....you lose!
I am sorry to sound so negative. I have been all through it. Leave no stone unturned, but mostly, you take charge and watch every aspect of the
construction. You don't have to be a tyrant. That is counterproductive and invites resentment. But, you need to observe and ask questions every step
of the way and be prepared to rip out "finished" stages and have them do it over. Do not count on your sense of logic to get you through it. It does
not apply in Mexico.
Be friends with your workers. Buy the food and the cerveza for after work, often. Party with them. Gain their respect. Have fun! |
