8 Avoidable Pitfalls When Using CUPCCAA Under $75k

08.28.25 | By Joanne Branch

1. Underestimating project costs. Don’t calculate only labor and materials; code requires you to include overhead (typically ~30%) before choosing the correct procurement method.

2. Skipping the Payment Bond. A bond is required on all projects over $25,000.

3. Ignoring prevailing wage. Any contractor work of $1,000 or more requires prevailing wage compliance.

4. Misclassifying the work. Calling a public work “maintenance” (or vice versa) leads to mistakes in multiple code-required areas. Define the project correctly from the start.

5. Overlooking the source of funds. The department or budget used doesn’t change the rules. Example: a project from the Maintenance Department and budget can still be a public work and must meet CUPCCAA requirements.

6. Skipping the permit check. For public schools, assume DSA oversight is required unless you verify an exemption (see IR A-22).

7. Missing DIR registration. Both contractor and owner project registrations are required (Owner: online reg. for Public Works ≥ $25k / Maintenance ≥ $15k).

8. Failing to document decisions. Always record your reasoning, project type, permits, cost estimates, and procurement method. Without notes, defending your choices becomes much harder.