Updated: March 28th, 2024; Owner/contact: @Jen Johnson, Role: Operations

<aside> <img src="/icons/apple_gray.svg" alt="/icons/apple_gray.svg" width="40px" /> At Sonder, we strive to humanize the discussion of rates and make it a conversation where both parties - the project and the subcontractor - have an equal foundation.

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Day rates reflect the way our work is valued. Discussing the day rates can be one of the most vulnerable situations for a subcontractor, and it’s important to be aware of the power dynamics of the situation.

The most important thing is not to assume that a day rate agreed upon at some point would be fixed in all circumstances, but to proactively reach out to the subcontractor to provide the opportunity for the day rate discussion:

• whenever there is a substantial change in the subcontractor’s accountabilities,
• when a new contract/continuation of an existing contract is created, or
• if there is a need to renegotiate for any other reason, like a need to align/balance day rate levels across projects.

The subcontractor might also indicate the need for negotiation themselves.

Even though budget restrictions might prevent some of the changes, having a conversation will help create mutual understanding and clearer expectations.

Watch this space for details about our Equitable Rate tools for both the project and the contractor!