Building Codes

I was going research in the plumbing area when I saw your Website. If you can answer my questions, I would appreciate it. If you can not answer, I would still be grateful if you could point in the right research direction.

Question 1

If a home owner is acting as his or her own General Contractor, does that mean the Sub Contractor S/he hires is not legally responsible for damage caused by the Sub Contractor?

Question 2

Does a Sub Contractor hired by the above Home Owner Contractor have the legal obligation to perform all plumbing work to City/State Codes?

I live in Detroit, Michigan.
As you may have guessed, I cannot give legal advise. The first question should be answered by an attorney who specializes in construction issues. You may also try to check with the local "Contractor's association" but I doubt that they will be willing to give legal advise as well. It is not allowed and very risky. The "Building department" of the city should be able to provide that information and answer the 2nd question.

Your second question is easy. All work, regardless on who does it, must conform to the codes. If you are using a licensed contractor you have the right to expect performance. However, I believe that legally, you the home owner are the one responsible to the city. Depending on the work involved, you may also have to apply to the city for permit and inspection by their inspector. If the inspector rejects the work then you shouldn't pay until it is fixed.

Just make sure you are using a licensed contractor who has good credentials. It may be a little more expensive, but worth it. They have every reason to do a good work.