What does it indicate when several contractors collaborate to secure a job?

When several contractors collaborate to secure a job, it suggests that they may be engaging in bid rigging. This practice occurs when two or more contractors agree to manipulate the bidding process to ensure that one of them is awarded the contract, potentially at the expense of fair competition.

Bid rigging undermines the integrity of the bidding process, as it prevents other contractors from having a fair chance of winning the job based on their qualifications and pricing. This collusion is illegal and is considered a form of anti-competitive behavior.

In contrast, bid shopping involves a contractor soliciting competitively priced bids from subcontractors after winning a contract, typically to get lower prices rather than seeking collaboration among contractors. Understanding these terms is critical for maintaining ethical practices in the construction industry and adhering to legal standards.