fvállalkozó

Fővállalkozó, often written informally as fõvállalkozó or fvállalkozó, is the Hungarian term for the prime contractor. The main contractor holds the primary contract with the client to deliver a construction or engineering project. In many contexts the fővállalkozó may act as the design-builder, assuming responsibility for both design and execution, but the exact duties depend on the contract and procurement method.

The main role of a fővállalkozó is to ensure the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality. It coordinates design documents with consultants and the client, procures materials and subcontracted services, and manages on-site construction activities. The fővállalkozó serves as the single point of contact for the client and typically handles progress reporting and change orders.

Subcontractors and risk management are core aspects of the position. The fővállalkozó hires and supervises alvállalkozók (subcontractors) under subcontract agreements, integrates work across trades, and ensures compliance with building codes, safety regulations, and quality standards. It bears primary liability for performance, safety, and financial risks, often maintaining insurance and may provide performance or payment bonds.

Contractually, the client signs a main agreement with the fővállalkozó, while subcontract agreements govern portions of the work. The fővállalkozó manages payments to subcontractors, procurement logistics, and variations through change orders, sometimes retaining part of payments as retention.

Context: in Hungary and elsewhere, the term reflects common procurement models such as design-bid-build or design-build. The exact scope and risk allocation are defined by contracts and applicable laws.